Both the jacket and trousers in the Gill OS2 series have been continuously developed over the years, making the latest generation the most sustainable product yet from the British brand. According to the manufacturer, the current OS2 system consists of 98 per cent recycled materials such as plastic bottles and recycled fibres. The material promises a water column of over 20,000 millimetres with good breathability, and the seams are fully taped. The jacket and trousers feel robust and well made, only the jacket zip is sometimes a little difficult to use. Gill's coating on the two-layer fabric has also been designed with sustainability in mind; according to the manufacturer, it is free from harmful chemicals (PFCs) and is also four times more durable than the old water-repellent treatment. How well it repels splashing water or heavy rain was demonstrated in practice, as it remained dry even in the many pockets after a long time.
Versatile functional clothing at a fair price
The technology is also said to be dirt and odour repellent. The sleeve openings are adjustable and have sealing polyurethane cuffs on the inside. However, these are in no way comparable to the cuffs of a drysuit. Although they do a good job of keeping out splash water, water will penetrate the sleeves at the latest when you have to work on deck in the rain. Unfortunately, this also happens to the collar in heavy rain. This is fitted with a neon yellow hood that fits well and can be rolled up and adjusted, but it doesn't stick out enough or is too unstable, allowing water to drip from the edge of the hood into the collar. The oilskin generally fits well and comfortably, but is cut a little wide. This can also be an advantage if you have to wear many layers underneath on cold days. An adjustable waistband would therefore be ideal for the trousers. The price-performance ratio of the OS2 collection from Gill is almost unbeatable. The jacket is available for 375 euros (e.g. here ), the trousers for 290 euros (e.g. here ). The oilskin set is available in different colours and in a special cut for women.
Alternatives on the market- Fibres from marine litter
Helly Hansen:Skagen Offshore
The Norwegian company Helly Hansen has opted for a more sustainable raw material for the Skagen Offshore, using 50 per cent recycled material from collected marine waste. The high collar and double cuffs are designed to keep out splash water and rain, while Solas-certified reflectors increase safety in an emergency. The trousers are protected at the knees and seat by Cordura reinforcements and have a quick-drying lining. Skagen Offshore Jacket for 380, trousers for 280 euros >> available from Helly Hansen .
Musto:MPX Pro Race
The MPX Pro Race line from Musto includes a jacket, a Race Dry Smock, an Offshore Race Smock and a Salopette. The jacket is characterised by its special collar, which closes quite tightly and is designed to combine the advantages of a smock with those of a jacket. It has smaller pockets and is shorter but lighter. The Dry Smock seals at the neck with a cuff and has storage space in a belly pocket. There is no hood. The Offshore Race Smock has one. All made from 100 percent recycled fibre. Jacket 699, trousers 669 euros.
