Steely Zips
Steely Zippin’ somewhere in Idaho…
We do not talk enough about our buddies at Steely Zips down in Ketchum, Idaho, and the great outdoors pieces they make. Designed around fly-fishing and skiing, Steely Zips prioritizes toughness and functionality. Think lift-ops and fishing guides. They’re mid and outer layers that are made to be worn every day, whether you’re wading a river, hiking a ridgeline, or chopping firewood. They are the perfect general purpose gear for Montana.
SteelyZips first big item was the “Mule”, a soft-shell 3/4 zip, pullover hoody with stretch panels and micro-fleece lining (we are currently out-of-stock). That was followed by the Full-zip Mule, which adds the easy-on and off appeal of a full zip jacket. Both of the Mules are great for cool to cold weather, depending on your activity output. The soft-shell provides a bit of weather resistance as well, and you’ll find you can wear these through a wide range of temperatures and conditions. Perfect for breezy days that are spitting snow and rain. The soft-shell material is also great at shielding you from the North-central Montana wind.
Recently, Steely Zips introduced the Rocky Mountain Grid Fleece. This is the perfect layering garment during the winter, and top layer for milder mornings during the summer. The key here is: excellent quality grid fleece (we’ve learned that not all grid fleece is equal), and lycra lower sleeves/cuffs. These lower sleeves are the key to this piece, as they accomplish several things, Firstly, they are easy to slide under bulkier shells or insulated jackets. Second, you can push them up - and they’ll stay there - just like your favorite cotton hoodie. This is important when you're warming up on a hike, or reaching in the net to release a fish. Lastly, this material dries quickly when wet, and doesn’t “sag”. Super important for a fishing layer. The Rocky Mountain Grid fleece also has a generous hood, kangaroo hand-warmer pocket, and zippered chest pocket. It layers very well.
These are perfect late-winter/spring fly fishing garments, especially with this warmer winter we’ve been experiencing.
Headhunters is one of a handful of places you can see and buy Steely Zips, other than the SZ website. If you don’t see the size or color you’re looking for at Headhunters, check the Steely Zip website.