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Even during summer a heavy downpour requires protection from the rain. Enter the Stio Ender Hooded Jacket.
I love fishing in the summer months, when it’s warm and sunny. But depending on where you live, there’s always the chance for a heavy shower. Although temperatures might not drop significantly during such a quick shower, it’s important to stay dry. If you’re looking for a lightweight rain jacket that works great for fly fishing but also other sports such as hiking or nordic walking, the Stio Ender Hooded Jacket might be worth a look for you.
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First Impression of the Stio Ender Jacket
What you get:
Color: Mountain Blue. Also available in a lighter blue and bright red.
Sizes: S to XXL
Adjustable hood
Cuffs
Side pockets and chest pockets (both zippered)
Side ventilation
Weight: 13.6 oz (386gr)
Price: $249
Designed with Portability in Mind
Wading jackets come in all shapes and sizes and are often slightly shorter than regular rain jackets in order for you to be able to wade deep. The Stio Ender has a slightly longer cut in the back which makes it more of an allrounder and a great choice if you’re looking for a versatile, lightweight and waterproof shell against summer downpours.
It still features many details that come in handy if you use it for a fly fishing outing. First off, it has a number of zippered pockets that allow for the storage of a fly box or tippet spool. One such pocket is on the chest and is protected by a YKK AquaGard zip that succesfully keeps things on the inside dry although at some point these items will get wet as I would rather call these zippers water-resistant than fully waterproof. If you’re carrying a fly box or extra tippet spool in there that doens’t matter.
On the end of the sleeves, the Stio has integrated velcro cuffs that help prevent water from penetrating. Be aware that these cuffs are not neoprene lined as on the Patagonia SST or the Filson Skagit for example which means water will get up your sleeves when you release a fish in the water for example.
The Ender jacket also features an adjustable hood with a great brim to keep the rain out of your face. As you can see in the photo below, the jacket comes with vents on the side which are a great feature in a summer wading jacket as it often gets hot and steamy after a shower.
Freedom of Movement
The sizing is on the relaxed side in my eyes. I am 5’10” and comfortably wore a size S with some room beneath the jacket giving me excellent freedom of movement for fly casting and the opportunity to layer underneath if required.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Waterproofness and Breathability: 20,000mm waterproofness and 10,000g/m2/24hrs breathability translate to excellent performance on the water.
Relaxed Fit: The Ender jacket provides good freedom of movement thanks to a relaxed fit
Versatility: A fully adjustable hood is great for fly fishing and safely prevents rain from getting to your face
Excellent ventilation: Vents along boths sides faciliate exchange of air after a summer rain shower
Cons
Cuffs: The Stio Ender comes with velcro cuffs but they can only do so much in keeping the water out
Colors: I like the Mountain Blue colorway but for fly fishermen a green option would be a nice addition to the lineup
Verdict on the Stio Ender
At only $249 the Stio Ender Jacket has a lot to offer for fly fishermen. It works great as a lightweight summer wading jacket that you can also use for other sports such as backpacking or hiking. It has all the essential features of a great fly fishing jacket such as zippered pockets, velcro cuffs, a fully adjustable hood, waterproof zippers and vents on the side. Definitely worth a look if you’re looking for versatility, low weight and style.