I need to be kitted out for new waterproofs. jacket, trousers etc etc. 98% of my fishing will be bank fishing on stillwaters and no wading past the height of my wellies.

I am in a quandary at the moment on what to buy, I am also considering buying a new lens for my camera, about 400 quids worth. Alternatively I might forget the lens and use it for decent clothing for fishing. I think that should give you a idea of my budget.

What I'd like to know is it worth while buying some of the well known brand names such as Hardy/Snowbee/Greys/Airflo just to name a few or should I go el cheapo at the local Army Navy Stores?
Because I'm a wee fat sod at 5ft 7in, I will need to use one of my local angling shops so I can try out the clothing for a good fit before buying, I don't want to guess on the websites.

What are the majority of guys wearing these days for comfort and reliability on the windiest of days? Recommendations are much appreciated.

For bank fishing in winter, I wear a Greys GRXi 3/4 length jacket which is windproof/ waterproof. Over a pair of Rohan or similar (Craghopper, e.g.) walking trousers I've a pair of Berghaus Gore Tex waterproof trews, thick socks and wellies. Whatever the weather this keeps me warm and dry. The Greys coat has enough pockets and zingers and rings for stuff, on occassions I carry a small bag with me for any other bits and pieces - don't tend to wear a fly vest under the coat as I don't want to go unzipping/ unbuttoning to get at stuff if its cold and/ or wet.

In answer to your question, I guess you could go for a 3/4 length wax jacket or similar. In Winter I like to layer up, so provided you get something which keeps the wind and the rain out, with room for a decent fleece underneath I think you'll be fine.

I'm a wee fat so and so @ 5ft 7 inches too. Most of the clothing I wear whilst fishing is decent walking/ outdoors gear like Rohan, Craghopper, Berghaus. Big fan of the Greys coat though, well worth the money. Well made and lasting very well - looks as good now as it did in 2008 when the Mrs bought it for me. One thing I really like is that the hood is designed for single handed operation and is cut to allow for s decent hat into the bargain.

Oh - hat is either a Tilley or a Harris Tweed flat cap...

If the primary concern is staying dry and given you're doing bank fishing that will be largely stationary or involve only occasional movement, I'd say invest in good waterproofs and warm boots.

Personally, for boat or other low-movement fishing I think I stay the driest using old school rubberized nylon rain gear like Helley Hanson. It's not breathable, but when sitting on a wet boat seat or in a driving rain all day, I think that may actually be an advantage.

If you want the best of breathables, buy a set of Guidewear rain gear from Cabelas. Nothing else to say, really, it's just the best and hardest wearing. Price is up there, but get/pay for/etc.

Grouse

And don't forget about the outdoor shops that supply mountaineering clobber. Some of them will be having sales around now too in preparation for the winter season. Most of their outer wear is designed with movement in mind and therefore has a cut and often a stretchiness that is appropriate for casting.

There are many alternatives now to GoreTex and I personally favour eVent but there are many other types of breathable material out there now.

Well said about the outdoor stores!

Check out the thread on the Aldi thermal walking strides for £10.99/ Picked mine up this morning and very pleased.

Thanks everyone who replied, ended up getting a Greys GRXi 3/4 length jacket (Not Extreme) Shop had it on display for £119.00 last one in the shop, nice guy at the counter knocked it down to £110.00 Delighted with the fit and pockets a plenty.

Just to get a bib and brace now, they didn't have my swell size LOL. off to browse the net now for one.

Thanks again.