Shimano ES Rain Pants 03 [RA-024Z]: Waterproof Fishing Pants With a Pliers Holder and D-Ring
Shimano has released the ES Rain Pants 03 [RA-024Z], and this is exactly what I had been waiting for. They combine DryShield+ waterproofing that copes with seawater with a storage design that includes a pliers holder and a D-ring.
I usually travel to the coast by public transport with just a small bag, a pack rod and a compact cool bag. With these pants, I think I could leave the bag at home and go with only the pack rod and cool bag. Here is why they suit anglers who like to travel light.
Three key features
The ES Rain Pants 03 are designed to balance three things: storage, waterproofing and comfort.
1. DryShield+ that resists seawater
The pants use DryShield+, Shimano’s own waterproof breathable fabric, which stops water getting through to the inside even in rain or spray.
Ordinary water repellency tends to fade after repeated exposure to salty, mineral-rich seawater, and can leave white salt stains once dry. These pants are designed to reduce that loss of repellency and the white marks.
2. Storage that replaces a bag
As well as normal pockets, the pants have a pliers holder and a D-ring. You can carry the gear you need on your body and move freely without a bag or vest. The pockets have zips, so small items, your phone or car key stay put even when you are moving a lot.
3. Comfortable three-layer build
A tricot lining is bonded inside the waterproof breathable membrane in a three-layer construction. It reduces wear from friction, sweat and skin oils and keeps the fabric feeling dry, so the pants stay comfortable through long wet sessions.
Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | RA-024Z |
| Colours | Black, Khaki, Charcoal, Pale HUN Camo |
| Sizes | M, L, XL, 2XL (Pale HUN Camo: M–XL) |
| Price (excl. tax) | ¥33,000 (all sizes and colours) |
| Material | Outer 100% nylon (polyurethane breathable waterproof), lining 100% nylon, parts polyester / nylon |
Size chart (cm)
| Size | Waist (flat) | Inseam | Side length | Hem width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M | 37 | 70.8 | 98 | 22.5 |
| L | 39 | 72.8 | 101 | 23 |
| XL | 41 | 74.8 | 104 | 23.5 |
| 2XL | 43 | 75.8 | 106 | 24 |
Who are they for?
- Anglers who travel by train or bus and want to carry less
- Surf and rock anglers who get regular spray
- Run-and-gun lure anglers who prefer not to wear a vest or bag
If you add the optional Shimano Suspenders AC-000W, you can carry more in the pockets and still walk comfortably.
For a matching top layer, see Shimano’s 2026–27 winter fishing wear, and for other Shimano clothing, the Game Vest VF-278Z.
Summary
- DryShield+ waterproofing that resists seawater loss of repellency and salt stains
- Pliers holder, D-ring and zip pockets let you fish without a bag
- Three-layer build stays comfortable on long wet days
- ¥33,000 before tax, four colours, sizes M–2XL
