Hunters need an adaptable layering system in order to adapt quickly to changing temperatures and weather conditions without returning to their base camp. Camouflage helps hunters blend into their environment and remain hidden from potential prey.

Shell jackets combine multilayer exterior fabrics with weatherproofing membranes such as Gore-Tex and insulated liners to form windproof outer layers. Many jackets also provide insulation.

Insulated Jacket

Your insulated jacket is one of the most indispensable pieces of hunting equipment. As an outer layer, it protects you from extreme temperatures while providing warmth, weatherproofing and silence without giving away scent.

Modern insulated jackets typically include multilayer exterior fabrics and breathable weatherproofing membranes like Gore-Tex to provide optimal waterproof protection in most situations, eliminating the need to carry around more specialized rain gear such as windbreakers or softshells.

Synthetic insulation such as PrimaLoft is an ideal choice for mountain hunting, replicating the warmth-to-weight ratio of natural down while remaining effective when wet. Many jackets also include durable face fabrics treated with DWR to protect the insulation against moisture accumulated both during precipitation and as perspiration from your own movements and hunting activities.

Inner Layer

The inner layer is the first step to any hunting outfit; it sits beneath your shell. This layer helps regulate temperature by drawing moisture away from your skin – something especially essential if you plan on being active and sweating heavily while hunting.

Hunters often choose merino wool as their base layer due to its comfortable construction and fast wicking ability, making it the ideal material for active hunts in high humidity or rainy environments.

Goose down or synthetic insulation may also make an effective mid layer choice, with goose down packing down to an extremely small size and being more susceptible to moisture than synthetics like Primaloft. When choosing any mid layer option for hunting purposes, make sure that it’s breathable and moisture wicking, so as to keep you warm without chilling down during active hunts. Focusing solely on hunting will keep you warm!

Outer Layer

The outer layer should provide protection from wind, rain and snow as well as be durable enough for hunters’ daily conditions in the field such as thick trees, dense brush or other obstacles they encounter on their hunts.

Some jackets from Sitka provide all of the protection of a waterproof shell with enough breathability for layering up effectively while hunting, keeping you warm and dry while decreasing noise when moving through brush or up rocky ridges. This jacket from Sitka does just that – it allows for optimal warmth while remaining quiet while moving.

Filson offers other waxed canvas jackets as a lightweight form of armor for hunting adventures, like this one. Resistant to raindrops and with grid fleece interior that traps warmth to prevent convective heat loss, it provides essential warmth retention during hunts while repelling rain like water off a duck’s back. Furthermore, radio pockets and ammunition loops ensure you remain safe, prepared, and ready for whatever awaits on your next expedition.

Beanies

Beanie caps are essential pieces of hunting gear when hunting in cold temperatures. Not only will they keep your head warm, but also protect against wind, rain and snow during your hunt.

A hat can be made of either merino wool or synthetic materials and is an ideal choice for high-performance hunters due to its ability to wick away moisture quickly, dry quickly and provide comfort. Plus, its light and packable construction makes it easier to bring along on long walks. A beanie provides added warmth when worn under a brimmed hat or helmet for additional sun protection and warmth.

Underneath all layers is a pair of hunting boots specifically designed for hunting. Hunting boots provide more durability, traction, and insulation than hiking boots do; their special fit helps maintain comfort without blisters and sore feet; it is recommended to wear thick socks while hunting as gaiters will help keep snow and dirt out during a hunt.