Winterneo: GunSails Force Semidry Hood - the inexpensive winterneo in the test
Manuel Vogel
· 31.01.2023
With the Force FZ Semidry Hood 6/5 model, direct supplier GunSails is sending a thick and, at 275 euros (as of September 2024), comparatively inexpensive winter model into the race. The Neo is only available for men and in sizes S/M/L/XL and XXL. We tested whether the Gun model can keep up with the more expensive competition.
Entry is easy and the collar area is neither particularly tight nor extremely wide. However, you immediately notice that the Force Semidry Hood has thicker than average neoprene on the arms and legs. However, because the cut is a little wider than in the centre, it still slips in well. The information to be found on the direct supplier's website that "the Force models tend to run small and should be ordered one size larger"We cannot fully comprehend this on the basis of our test model.
Overall, the interior of the Winterneo appears somewhat reduced. The brand-internal Thermo Plush The material thickness is limited to the torso and the front of the thighs. Despite the thick material thickness, the GunSails Force Semidry Hood is by no means bulky, but moulds to the contours of the body and offers good stretch. The overlap between the neck ruff and bonnet is large enough, and a drawstring can be used to minimise the ingress of water.
Pierced ears cause constant noise
In contrast to older versions of the Force Semidry Hood, the new model now also has a drawstring on the bonnet. The closure around the face is soft and comfortable. However, we don't understand why a winter neo should have ear holes for supposedly better hearing. If you want to have a chat in a windless place, you might like it. On the water, however, you'll only hear one thing: annoying constant noise! On top of that, the cold wind blows directly into your inner ear - an absolute no-go! We recommend covering the ear holes on the inside of the bonnet with neoprene adhesive and a thin layer of neoprene to solve the problem.
Apart from that, the GunSails Force Semidry Hood is a rock-solid neo that allows little water to penetrate even during crashes and washes. The neo's good thermal insulation comes primarily from the thicker-than-average materials, rather than from fancy features on the inside.
GunSails Force FZ Semidry Hood 6/5 - the conclusion:
With the Force Semidry Hood, GunSails offers a thoroughly competitive winter neo at a fair price. Entry-level comfort, freedom of movement and thermal insulation are good, although not quite at the top level. Nevertheless, sessions in icy water and at temperatures between four and twelve degrees Celsius are no problem. The shortcoming of the bonnet cannot be ignored, but can be quickly rectified.
Price-performance
Ear holes on the bonnet
Rating:
Technical data:
- Test model: GunSails Force FZ Semidry Hooded 6/5 (size XL)
- Thickness: 6/5mm
- Available sizes: S/M/L/XL/XXL
- Price: 275 Euro
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