TRIED AND TESTED

GUL CODE ZERO 3MM BS HIKEJOHN WITH PADS AND CODE ZERO PRO TRI-LAMINATE SPRAY TOP

tested the Gul Code Zero HikeJohn with Pads at the Merlin Rocket Nationals in the summer, . It’s a tough, close fleet, so hiking hard really makes a difference and the right equipment is important for that. The main thing I liked was how the integrated pads are actually quite thin and fit comfortably around your leg. It means you stay connected to the boat and remain flexible to move around, yet still have the support to make it as comfortable as possible for a day racing. The material on the seat is another positive feature, giving great protection from deck fittings and grip, meaning you don’t slide too much, even in big wind and waves. There aren’t many longjohn wetsuits with built in hiking pads and knee/shin protection out there, and I’m really not sure why. For me they give you the perfect mix of upper body mobility and all over protection for your legs to keep you going on the racecourse. I paired the longjohns with Gul’s Code Zero Pro Spray Top. The main thing that struck me compared to other tops I’ve worn was the stretch of the fabric. It really does make a difference, meaning you keep the flexibility and range of movement that extra layers can sometimes reduce. Over the week we had a range of conditions, and the top worked well in them all. Breathable and open necked on the warm, light wind days, then waterproof and windproof on the colder, wetter, windier days. The best endorsement I can give is that this is now my preferred spray top year-round. For those of you who haven’t refreshed your spray top in the last few years, this product would be one I’d recommend.