Gill has launched the new OS1 Ocean System, the ninth iteration of its Ocean-graded product and its most advanced ocean-going apparel to date.
Developed for the most demanding conditions, the OS1 Ocean System combines rigorous in–house laboratory testing with over 5,000 miles of real–world Arctic sailing validation by Matt and Amy aboard Sailing Yacht Florence.
A Marine–First Partnership with Nikwax
New legislation banning the use of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has added a new challenge for brands designing high performance waterproof apparel that still performs to the same level as previous generation styles. Gill has been quick to respond to the change, finding solutions that ensure customers continue to receive the same high-quality, high-performance garments they’ve come to expect from the brand.
In a marine industry first, Gill has collaborated with industry leader Nikwax to integrate Nikwax Direct.Dry – a factory-applied PFAS-free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment – into the all-new OS1. This high-performance, PFAS-free water repellency delivers industry leading waterproof protection in extreme ocean conditions while supporting more responsible material choices.
Brian Davidson, CEO of Nikwax, said: “We are excited to use our 50 years of experience producing PFAS-Free DWR to support the Gill OS1. This partnership demonstrates that high-performance marine apparel does not need to rely on PFAS chemistry. Working closely with Gill, we applied our Direct.Dry DWR technology when the fabric is produced, delivering dependable water repellency without the need for PFAS in the system. Additionally, our globally known Nikwax aftercare products help keep waterproof garments working better for longer, so people can get the most out of their jackets and trousers. This is exactly the kind of collaboration that moves the marine industry forward.”
Engineered Beyond the Lab
Every OS1 jacket and trouser is produced under Gill’s total quality control process, with each individual garment pressure–tested before leaving the factory. Jackets are tested across 50 seam–critical points and trousers across 40, ensuring waterproof integrity from day one.
Matt Clark, Director of Product & Sustainability at Gill, said: “OS1 is the pinnacle of everything Gill has learned over the last 50 years. Its roots trace back to the original ‘Atlantic’ jacket, first launched in 1987. By testing beyond industry standards and validating the system in real ocean conditions, OS1 sets a new benchmark for marine apparel – where cutting–edge material innovation, durability and responsible design are engineered together, without compromise.”
Ocean Proven in the Arctic
To validate performance beyond controlled environments, the OS1 Ocean System was worn daily during an Arctic sailing expedition, facing sub-zero temperatures, sustained wind chill and prolonged exposure.
Matt Humphreys from Sailing Yacht Florence said: “In the Arctic, the real challenge is the wind chill coming off ice and glaciers. We wore the OS1 constantly and never had to dry out our mid or base layers. When the outer layer got wet, we shook it off and let it dry in the cockpit. That tells you everything about how well it performed.”
Built with Responsibility
Alongside performance gains, OS1 incorporates recycled content throughout key materials, including reinforcement overlays, reducing reliance on virgin plastics without compromising durability. The PFAS–free water repellent finish is designed to be renewable over the garment’s lifetime, extending service life and performance.
Designed for Life on Deck
OS1 introduces refined safety and usability features, including:
- 360° safety reflective detailing, including larger photoluminescent, prismatic reflectives on both the jacket & trousers
- Oversized zips, cuffs and storm guards designed for use with cold hands and gloves
- Ergonomic patterning to reduce fatigue during long periods on deck
- Each garment is equipped with a titanium-coated 420 stainless steel multifunctional tool and repositionable PLB or multitool clasp
The OS1 Ocean System is available through Gill retailers and gillmarine.com.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Price:
OS1 Ocean Jacket – £625
OS1 Ocean Trousers – £500
