It’s not just about staying warm. Sure, that’s important. But when you’re out on the ice, safety is key. An ice fishing float suit can be a lifesaver if you accidentally fall through the ice.
These suits are designed to keep you afloat and insulated if you end up in the water. They’re like a life jacket and a winter coat rolled into one. Plus, they’re comfortable enough to wear all day while you’re fishing.
Choosing the right float suit can make or break your ice fishing trip. You want something that’ll keep you warm, dry, and safe. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve looked at the best ice fishing float suits on the market, particularly focusing on popular spots like Minnesota’s ice fishing lakes where proper gear is essential. We’ve compared features, read reviews, and even tested some ourselves.
What Is An Ice Fishing Float Suit?
An ice fishing float suit is a specialized piece of clothing designed for ice anglers venturing onto frozen lakes. These suits, also known as floating ice fishing suits, combine essential safety features with cold-weather protection.
The primary purpose is to provide warmth and protection while offering crucial safety features in case of accidental immersion in icy water. Many experienced anglers who frequent popular ice fishing destinations consider these suits essential gear.
Ice fishing float suits are made with special materials that provide buoyancy, helping the wearer stay afloat if they fall through the ice. This floating capability is what sets these suits apart from regular winter clothing. Many ice fishing enthusiasts consider a float suit to be one of the most important pieces of safety equipment they can own.
The typical ice fishing float suit consists of a jacket and bibs (high-waisted pants), though some models come as a one-piece suit. Both the jacket and bibs are designed to work together to create a complete flotation system. These suits are often referred to as floating ice fishing bibs or floating ice fishing jackets when discussing the individual components.
When choosing an ice fishing float suit, it’s important to consider factors such as insulation, waterproofing, and comfort, in addition to the flotation features. Many anglers find that investing in a high-quality float suit enhances their overall ice fishing experience by allowing them to stay out on the ice longer and more safely.
Top Brands For Ice Fishing Float Suits
When choosing protective gear for winter fishing conditions, several brands have established themselves as industry leaders. These companies are known for producing high-quality, reliable gear that ice anglers trust.
Striker Ice Fishing Float Suits
Striker Ice has established itself as a leader in the Ice Fishing Float Suits space, known for its innovative designs and high-performance materials. The company’s commitment to quality and functionality has made it a favorite among serious ice anglers. Striker Ice suits are designed with the harsh realities of ice fishing in mind, offering superior protection against cold, wind, and water.
One of Striker’s standout features is their use of advanced materials like Hydrapore and Thermadex. These proprietary fabrics provide excellent waterproofing and insulation while maintaining breathability. Striker Ice also pays close attention to the small details that can make a big difference in comfort and convenience, such as reinforced knees and seats, multiple storage options, and adjustable features for a custom fit.
| Product | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Breathability Rating | Notable Features |
| Striker Ice Climate Jacket | 100g Thermadex | 5,000mm | 5,000g/m2 | Removable hood, reinforced knees and seat |
Frabill Ice Fishing Float Suits
Frabill has been a trusted name in fishing gear for over 75 years, and their ice fishing float suits are no exception to their reputation for quality. Frabill’s suits are designed with a focus on safety and functionality, incorporating features that cater specifically to the needs of ice anglers. Their I-Float system is particularly noteworthy, offering excellent buoyancy in case of accidental immersion.
Frabill’s attention to detail is evident in their use of high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements. Many of their suits feature self-draining designs, which can be crucial in emergency situations. They also incorporate practical elements like D-rings for attaching gear and integrated ice pick sets, demonstrating a deep understanding of the ice fishing experience.
| Product | Buoyancy | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Notable Features |
| Frabill I3 Jacket | 50 lbs | 150g 3M Thinsulate | 10,000mm | Self-draining design, integrated ice picks |
Clam Ice Fishing Float Suits
Clam Outdoors has built a strong reputation in the Ice Fishing Float Suits space, offering a wide range of products including their popular float suits. Clam’s Ice Fishing Float Suit are known for their excellent balance of affordability and quality, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced anglers. Their IceArmor line, in particular, has gained a loyal following for its performance in harsh winter conditions.
Clam’s float suits are designed with a keen understanding of the ice fishing environment. They incorporate features like reinforced wear areas, adjustable hoods, and plenty of storage options. Clam also offers a range of styles and insulation levels, allowing anglers to choose a suit that best matches their specific needs and local conditions.
| Product | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Breathability Rating | Notable Features |
| Clam IceArmor Rise Float Parka | 150g Thinsulate | 5,000mm | 5,000g/m2 | 50 lbs flotation, removable hood |
Eskimo Ice Fishing Float Suits
Eskimo has long been a trusted name in ice fishing, known primarily for their ice shelters. However, their line of ice fishing float suits has gained recognition for offering reliable protection at an affordable price point. Eskimo’s suits are designed with practicality in mind, focusing on essential features that ensure warmth, dryness, and safety on the ice.
One of Eskimo’s strengths is their understanding of the diverse needs of ice anglers. They offer suits in a range of insulation levels and styles, from basic models suitable for milder conditions to heavy-duty suits designed for extreme cold. This variety allows anglers to choose a suit that matches their specific fishing style and local climate.
| Product | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Notable Features |
| Eskimo Keeper Bibs | 60g Insulation | Waterproof Shell | Reinforced knees and seat, adjustable suspenders |
IceArmor By Clam Ice Fishing Float Suits
IceArmor is a sub-brand of Clam that focuses specifically on high-performance Ice Fishing Float Suits. The IceArmor line is designed for anglers who demand the best in protection and functionality. These suits are built to withstand the harshest winter conditions while providing comfort and mobility for long days on the ice.
A key feature of IceArmor suits is their use of advanced materials and construction techniques. Many models incorporate multiple layers of insulation and waterproofing, creating a highly effective barrier against cold and moisture. IceArmor suits also tend to include a range of angler-friendly features, such as specialized pockets for fishing tools and electronics.
| Product | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Breathability Rating | Notable Features |
| IceArmor by Clam Lift Suit | 100g Thinsulate | 5,000mm | 5,000g/m2 | Removable hood, reinforced wear areas |
Piscifun Ice Fishing Float Suits
Piscifun, while a relatively new player in the ice fishing gear market, has quickly gained popularity for offering quality products at competitive prices. Their ice fishing float suits have attracted attention for providing many of the features found in more expensive brands at a more accessible price point. This has made Piscifun a popular choice among budget-conscious anglers and those new to ice fishing.
Despite their lower price, Piscifun Ice Fishing Float Suits don’t skimp on essential features. Many models offer good insulation, reliable waterproofing, and thoughtful design elements like reinforced wear areas and multiple pockets. While they may not have all the advanced features of some premium brands, Piscifun suits provide solid performance for their price range.
| Product | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Breathability Rating | Notable Features |
| Piscifun Ice Fishing Suit | 120g Cotton | 10,000mm | 3,000g/m2 | Adjustable cuffs and waist, multiple pockets |
Boreas Ice Fishing Float Suits
Boreas has carved out a niche in the Ice Fishing Float Suit market by focusing on combining safety features with stylish designs. Their float suits are known for their sleek, modern aesthetics that don’t compromise on functionality. This approach has made Boreas popular among younger anglers and those who appreciate a more contemporary look in their fishing gear.
Beyond their appealing designs, Boreas suits offer solid performance in cold weather conditions. They typically feature good insulation and waterproofing, with many models incorporating advanced materials for improved breathability. Boreas also tends to include a range of practical features in their suits, such as multiple specialized pockets and adjustable elements for a custom fit.
| Product | Insulation | Waterproof Rating | Breathability Rating | Notable Features |
| Boreas Winter Fishing Suit | 150g Thinsulate | 8,000mm | 3,000g/m2 | Removable hood, stylish design |
Features To Look For In An Ice Fishing Float Suit
When shopping for a floating ice fishing suit, especially if you’re planning trips to popular ice fishing destinations, there are several key features to consider. These features can greatly impact the suit’s performance, comfort, and overall value. Here are some important aspects to look for:
- Buoyancy: The primary function of a float suit is to keep you afloat. Look for suits that provide adequate buoyancy for your weight. Most quality float suits will specify their buoyancy rating, often measured in pounds of flotation, similar to kayak PFDs.
- Insulation: A good ice fishing float suit should keep you warm in extreme winter conditions. Look for ice fishing float suits with quality insulation materials like Thinsulate or PrimaLoft. The amount of insulation can vary, so consider the typical temperatures you’ll be fishing in.
- Waterproofing: Your floating ice fishing jacket should keep you dry, both from external moisture and from sweat. Look for waterproof and breathable materials like Gore-Tex or similar proprietary fabrics. Pay attention to the waterproof rating, usually measured in millimeters (mm), just like in other essential fishing gear.
- Durability: Ice fishing can be tough on gear, especially in harsh environments. Choose an ice fishing float suit made from sturdy materials that can withstand wear and tear. Reinforced knees and seats are particularly useful features.
- Comfort and Mobility: You’ll be wearing this floating ice fishing suit for extended periods, so it should be comfortable and allow for easy movement. Look for features like articulated knees and elbows, which can improve mobility during long fishing sessions.
- Pockets and Storage: Ample pockets can be very useful for storing tackle, tools, and personal items. Look for a variety of pocket types, including waterproof pockets for electronics and essential accessories.
- Visibility: Bright colors or reflective elements can enhance safety by making you more visible on the ice or in water. Many ice fishing float suits come in high-visibility colors like orange or yellow, especially important when fishing in popular areas.
- Adjustability: Features like adjustable cuffs, waists, and hoods can help you get a better fit and seal out cold air. This can significantly improve comfort and warmth, particularly important for winter fishing conditions.
- Additional Safety Features: Some floating ice fishing bibs come with built-in safety devices like whistles or ice pick holsters. These can be valuable additions in emergency situations, especially when fishing in remote locations.
Remember, the best ice fishing float suit for you will depend on your specific needs, the conditions you’ll be fishing in, and your budget. It’s worth taking the time to research and compare different options to find the suit that best meets your requirements.