Striker Ice is a brand synonymous with top-tier technical clothing for those ardent anglers who scoff at weather warnings and laugh in the face of blizzards. This brand is not just about looking good on the ice (although, let’s be honest, their ice fishing gear does make you look like an Arctic explorer!). It’s about empowering you to conquer the elements and transform even the most brutal winter day into a triumphant one.
In this article, GRITR Outdoors is going to explore several Striker ice fishing suits. It will help you understand why Striker Ice is the go-to brand for those who refuse to let the weather dictate their fishing adventures and how to choose the right Striker for your adventure.
Technologies Behind Striker Ice Fishing Suits
Before we overview Striker ice bibs and jackets in detail, let’s take a closer look at the three main technologies that essentially make them what they are.
Hydrapore Waterproof / Hydrapore Pro
Hydrapore fabrics were developed to ensure you remain dry as a bone even when the weather decides to play spoilsport.
The original Hydrapore fabric is designed with a 5000/5000 waterproof/breathable rating, meaning it can withstand water pressure up to 5000mm and allows 5000 grams of vapor (sweat) to escape per square meter per 24 hours. In layman’s terms? It keeps the rain out and lets your sweat evaporate.
On the other hand, the Hydrapore Pro fabric boasts an impressive 10000/5000 waterproof/breathable rating. This means it can handle twice the water pressure of the regular Hydrapore, making it perfect for those extreme weather days when the heavens open up and the snow comes down hard.
Thermadex Insulation
Thermadex is designed to provide superior insulating performance with minimal loft, making it an ideal choice for lightweight outdoor active wear.
The weight of the insulation (in grams) does not directly correlate to its warmth. Instead, it refers to the density of the insulation. The higher the gram count, the denser and typically warmer the insulation will be. It’s important to note that the warmth also depends on other factors, such as the construction of the garment and the activity levels of the wearer.
For instance, the Striker Trekker features the least insulation in the Striker ice suit line-up, 60g, and, thus, is suited for warmer weather or early/late ice. On the other hand, the Striker Climate series is the warmest of all, with 175g of insulation.
When browsing through Striker jackets and bibs, you may find options that feature PrimaLoft insulation instead of Thermadex. PrimaLoft is another synthetic insulation known for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. It’s often compared to down for its ability to retain heat, but unlike down, it maintains much of its insulating ability even when wet.
Surefloat Floatation Assist
Last but certainly not least, we have the Surefloat Floatation Assist. This is Striker’s secret weapon for keeping you safe on the ice. The Surefloat floatation system is built into every Striker Ice suit, providing added buoyancy in case of an unexpected plunge. It’s not meant to replace a life jacket, but it adds an extra layer of safety that could make all the difference if things go south.
Striker Ice Bibs & Jackets: Choosing Your Best Suit
So, we have five Striker men’s and two women’s ice fishing suits. Let’s take a look at the three most popular designs.
Striker Apex: Most Advanced Striker Ice Suit
Striker’s Apex series is the embodiment of the brand’s commitment to innovation, comfort, and safety.
At the heart of the Apex series is the 80g PrimaLoft Cross Core insulation. The Cross Core variant takes PrimaLoft a step further by infusing the insulation with Aerogel, the lightest solid material used by NASA for space exploration due to its exceptional thermal insulation properties. This combination results in insulation that’s light, breathable, and incredibly warm.
The Apex series also boasts the Hydrapore Pro fabric rated at 10000/5000 for waterproofing and breathability, meaning it can withstand significant water pressure, keeping you dry even in heavy snow and moderate rain while still allowing sweat to escape from the inside.
Striker’s revolutionary Heat Map technology is another standout feature of the Apex series. This technology uses a special reflective lining that bounces back body heat, amplifying the effect of the insulation.
For those moments when you need to cut a fishing line quickly, the Apex series has got you covered with built-in Line Cutterz cleverly integrated into the suit.
Other features include fast-drain hems and cuffs that prevent water from being trapped in the suit, a magnetic storm flap on the front zipper for extra weather protection, ultra-tough knee reinforcements, an adjustable inseam, and ample pockets for storing gear and essentials. Also, the shell of the Striker Apex jacket and bib is 320D nylon.
Striker Climate: Ultimate Warmth & Versatility
This series is designed to offer ultimate warmth and versatility, making it a reliable companion on the ice.
One of the standout features of the Climate series is the generous 175g Thermadex insulation. It’s a lightweight, high-performance insulation that keeps you cozy even in sub-zero temperatures. Despite its impressive insulating capabilities, Thermadex is thin and flexible, ensuring your movement isn’t restricted.
The Striker Ice Climate jacket and bib also incorporate Hydrapore fabric with a 5k/5k waterproof/breathable rating. This fabric is engineered to keep you dry in light rain and snow.
One of the defining features of the Climate series is its versatility, embodied by the removable G2 Softshell Jacket Liner. This liner can be worn independently as a stylish, lightweight jacket for milder weather or zipped into the main suit for extra warmth during those extra frosty outings.
When it comes to durability, the Climate series doesn’t disappoint. The 1680D Snakeskin knee panels are designed to withstand the rigors of ice fishing.
Additional features include adjustable cuffs, inseam, and waist for a customizable fit, ample storage pockets, and reflective elements for increased visibility in low-light conditions.
Striker Predator: Lightweight Insulation
Engineered with the active angler in mind, the Predator series strikes the perfect balance between warmth, mobility, and durability.
At the core of the Predator series’ thermal performance is the 100g Thermadex. The insulation density is just perfect for keeping you warm during low-activity periods and not making you hot during high-output fishing.
Just like the Climate series, the Predator series features the Hydrapore fabric with a 5k/5k waterproof/breathable rating, which is enough to protect you from moderate-pressure precipitation.
One unique feature of the Predator jacket is the Crossflow Venting System that allows air to circulate within the suit, helping to regulate your body temperature during high-activity periods. The vents can be opened or closed as needed, giving you control over your comfort level.
Another standout feature is the 3-way zip-to-hip design. This clever addition allows easy access to your base layers and boots without having to completely undress, making it practical for quick changes.
Additional features of the Predator series include adjustable cuffs for a snug fit, 1680D Snakeskin knee panels, multiple storage pockets for your ice fishing gear, adjustable inseam, and reflective elements for safety.
Other Striker Ice Suits
Striker Hardwater: Extra Durable & Warm
Unique features:
● 150g Thermadex insulation
● Hydrapore 5k waterproof / 5k breathable
● 9 pockets + side entry storage compartment
● 600D shell
● Line Cutterz
● 1680D Snakeskin knee panels
● adjustable inseam
Striker Trekker: Lighter Insulated for Warmer Weather
Unique features:
● 60g Thermadex insulation,
● Hydrapore 5k waterproof / 5k breathable
● 600D shell
● adjustable inseam
Striker Women’s Stella: Warmest Women’s Suit
Unique features:
● 133g PrimaLoft Silver lightweight insulation
● Hydrapore 5k waterproof / 5k breathable
● Heat Map reflective lining for extra warmth
● fleece-lined hand warmer pockets, top-loading cargo storage pockets, inner phone pocket, and side entry storage
● Crossflow venting system for enhanced breathability
● 1680D Snakeskin knee panels
● pre-curved elbows
● Line Cutters
● adjustable inseam
Striker Women’s Prizm: Style & Comfort
Unique features:
● 150g Thermadex insulation
● Hydrapore 5k waterproof / 5k breathable
● Heat Map reflective lining for extra warmth
● multiple pockets and side entry storage
● underarm zippered vents for enhanced breathability
● 1680D Snakeskin knee panels
● drop-seat bib design
● pre-curved elbows
● Line Cutters
● adjustable inseam
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
