Equipment: Gill OS1 Ocean System - offshore oilskin with PFAS-free impregnation
Hauke Schmidt
· 21.02.2026
With the OS1 Ocean System, Gill is positioning itself in the premium segment for offshore oilskins and is also responding to the EU-wide ban on perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in water-repellent textile finishes, which comes into force in 2027. Unlike many competitors who still rely on PFAS-based DWR impregnations, Gill is already using Nikwax Direct Dry - an alternative that, according to the manufacturer, offers comparable moisture protection and can be refreshed by the user. The OS1 line is aimed at deep-sea sailors, offshore crews and demanding cruising sailors who value durability and reliable weather protection.
Arctic test over 5,000 nautical miles
The offshore oilskin was worn for more than 5,000 nautical miles under extreme conditions during an Arctic expedition on board the sailing yacht Florence. Sub-zero temperatures, strong wind chill and constant strain were to show where the system reached its limits. The crew's feedback flowed directly into the final product development.
The development is based on 50 years of experience with technical sailing clothing - from the first Atlantic jacket in 1987 to the current OS1 generation. Gill combines laboratory tests with practical use and supplements both with comprehensive quality control before delivery.
Individual inspection of each part before delivery
Each OS1 jacket is individually pressure-tested at 50 and each pair of trousers at 40 seam-critical points before it leaves the factory. According to the manufacturer, this outgoing goods inspection goes beyond the usual industry standards for offshore oilskins and is intended to rule out production faults. The tests are carried out using water pressure at critical points such as shoulder seams, zips and pocket inserts.
Equipment for offshore operations
The OS1 jacket has a face guard that can be stowed away in the collar, side hand warming pockets and 360-degree safety reflectors with photoluminescent and prismatic elements. Oversized controls are designed to remain operable even with cold fingers or gloves. An integrated multifunctional tool made of titanium-coated stainless steel and a holder for a personal locator beacon (PLB) are also on board.
The ergonomic cut of the offshore oilskin is designed for long periods of use on deck and is intended to counteract fatigue. Recycled materials are used in key components without compromising durability or performance, according to the manufacturer. The jacket costs 750 euros, the trousers 600 euros. Sizes XS to XXL are available.
TECHNICAL DATA
- Material: Gill Explore+
- Waterproofness: 30,000 mm water column
- Breathability: 15,000 g/m²/24h
- Impregnation: Nikwax Direct.Dry (PFAS-free, renewable)
- Quality control 100% individual testing: 50 pressure test points per jacket, 40 pressure test points per pair of trousers
Equipment:
- Storm visor: Can be stowed in the collar
- Pockets: Side hand warmer pockets
- Tool: Integrated multi-function tool (titanium-coated stainless steel)
- PLB holder: For Personal Locator Beacon
- Oversized zip, suitable for gloves
- Cut: Ergonomic for long periods of use
- Recycled material content in key components
- PFAS-free impregnation
- DWR equipment renewable by the user
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Jacket price: 750 euros
- Price trousers: 600 Euro
- Purchase: Gill dealer, gillmarine.com
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Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
