Korda Compass Tee – Heather Grey | Spring ’26 Signature Series | Gerry’s Fishing

When the first samples of the Compass Tee landed at Korda HQ back in the autumn of 2025, they didn’t stay on the racks for long. The “mysterious disappearance” of those early shirts was the ultimate testament to the design’s appeal. Now, as the cornerstone of the Spring ’26 clothing launch, the Compass Tee is finally available at Gerry’s Fishing.

This isn’t just a basic t-shirt; it’s a tribute to angling heritage. Inspired by the legendary Sir Isaac Walton, the back of the tee features a stunning compass dial graphic that incorporates the timeless wisdom of the wind proverb. Whether you’re watching the water for a sign of a South wind or enjoying a pint at the local, this tee delivers the perfect blend of technical durability and classic style.

Technical Specifications & Fabric Engineering

Korda has moved away from standard “cheap” cotton to a high-performance blend that handles the humidity of the bank and the friction of a rucksack.

The “Isaac Walton” Inspiration

The back of the tee isn’t just a design—it’s a tactical reminder for every angler. The compass dial points are inscribed with the classic lines:

“Wind from the North, few anglers set forth

Wind from the East, the fish bite the least

Wind from the South, blows bait in their mouth

Wind from the West, the fish bite best”

It’s a design that sparks conversation on the bank and serves as a nod to those who truly understand the craft of watercraft.

Where to Wear the Compass Tee

• On the Bank: The 60/40 blend is more breathable than 100% cotton, making it ideal for those active spring days spent casting or walking the perimeter of the lake.

• Hiking & Hills: The durable texture and shape retention mean it can withstand the sweat and movement of a day up in the Lake District or the Peaks.

• The “Post-Session” Social: With its clean lines and Heather Grey marl, it looks just as sharp in the pub with your mates as it does behind a pair of rods.

• Everyday Life: Designed to withstand frequent washing without shrinking or losing its “soft-touch” feel, it’s a reliable daily driver for any season.

Gerry’s “Apparel Care” Pro Tips

• The Shape Secret: To keep the Compass Tee looking “straight-from-the-packet” for years, always wash it inside out. This protects the back graphic from the friction of the washing machine drum.

• Avoid the “Bake”: While the cotton/poly blend is durable, we recommend air-drying rather than using a high-heat tumble dryer. This prevents the graphic from cracking and ensures the fit remains consistent.

• Layering Strategy: In the unpredictable Spring ’26 weather, this tee works perfectly as a base layer. The Heather Grey is neutral enough to sit under any Dark Olive hoodie or Black softshell without clashing.

• Size Up for Comfort: If you prefer a “relaxed” look for sleeping in the bivvy, we recommend going one size up. Korda’s fit is athletic, so a size up gives you that extra room to move during the night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the back graphic peel off after washing?

No. Korda uses high-quality screen-printing techniques that “bond” the ink to the fabric. As long as you follow the care instructions (wash cool, inside out), the graphic will remain vibrant session after session.

Does it shrink in the wash?

The 40% polyester content is specifically included to prevent the shrinking that is common with 100% cotton shirts. It retains its shape and length even after frequent industrial washing.

Is the Heather Grey “see-through”?

Not at all. The material is a substantial, high-density weave that offers total opacity while remaining light enough to stay cool in the sun.

What size should I get if I’m between sizes?

If you have a broader chest or shoulders, we suggest moving up a size. The “Spring ’26” cut is slightly more tailored than older Korda garments to ensure it looks good both on and off the bank.

In the Box:

• 1 x Korda Compass Tee (Heather Grey)

• Gerry’s Note: Available in Small to 4XL—we’ve made sure there is a comfortable fit for every angler in the shop!