An ideal hunting jacket should provide protection from cold winds or rain storms and keep you warm while out hunting. In addition, many have features such as removable hoods and pockets galore to make this task even easier.

However, not all jackets are created equal – be sure to consider your expected conditions, terrain and activity level when making your decision.

Weight

Boot selection should go beyond mere comfort – it has an impactful influence on performance as well. Weight, insulation and flexibility should correspond with where and how you hunt as well as weather conditions – this technical information all adds up to give you the tools for success in the wild while providing you with an unforgettable journey through it all!

For instance, when hunting late season deer in tree stands, thick and warm boots are essential to staying comfortable and dry during extended hunts. Unfortunately, over-insulation can leave your feet sweating as too much insulation keeps moisture vapor from leaving their socks.

Your choice of material also affects their weight, cost, durability and fit. Synthetic boots tend to be lighter but less durable than leather ones; leather offers some water resistance as it ages to mold to your foot shape and provide a comfortable fit over time. Ultimately, choose what best meets your needs and budget!

Insulation

Insulation is an essential element of hunting jackets and boots, keeping you warm by trapping a layer of air warmed by your body heat while simultaneously blocking cold air from entering. Modern synthetic insulation has come a long way since wool and down insulation were the go-to choices (though wool works best in dry climate).

Hunting-specific or mountaineering companies will carry a range of synthetic insulating products suitable for hunting. Your choice will depend on what kind of hunting you do and your hunting preferences.

Boots are essential in cold and snowy environments as wet feet can be hazardous in the wilderness. Waterproofing locks out moisture so your feet remain warm and dry – look for boots with waterproof ratings like GORE-TEX for the ultimate dry comfort on hikes over difficult terrain or up steep inclines. Adding flexible flex rating boots increases comfort levels as your body temperature fluctuates during a hike, offering greater mobility to you as your hike progresses.

Women’s Fit

Historically, hunting gear was designed for men; however, manufacturers now provide women’s hunting jackets and boots which better accommodate female bodies, providing greater comfort when shooting bows or traversing snow or rough terrain. This improves comfort in many ways from shooting bows to walking long distances on snow or uneven terrain.

KUIU’s Guide DCS women’s jacket features underarm gussets to allow layering without restricting mobility – something which could make all the difference when choosing between wearing a coat which limits or facilitates your movements.

As with selecting hunting boots, the same principle must apply when choosing hunting footwear. A boot that fits the terrain and climate you will be hunting in can save your feet from becoming wet during hunts. Many brands now provide boots that come equipped with either an insulated liner or waterproof shell to accommodate changing conditions; others even feature detachable liners and safety harness pass-through features.

Waterproofing

Waterproof hunting boots, such as Gore-Tex membranes, should be essential if hunting in damp environments. Wet feet quickly lose heat and can become frostbitten; with waterproof hunting boots featuring such membranes you will stay comfortable while hunting expedition. Your feet will remain comfortable and dry during every hunting expedition!

Grangers Footwear Repel is an industry standard waterproofing wax used by many manufacturers for treating leather boots, such as Grangers Footwear Repel. Always thoroughly clean leather boots prior to applying a waterproofing treatment; then allow them to completely dry before applying a thin coat over their exterior surface. Boots made with suede or nubuck leather may require special treatment and direct heat should be avoided as it could accelerate cracking and breaking down more rapidly.

Shoppers frequently ask us which outerwear is waterproof, breathable and windproof. Unfortunately, there is no standard testing method available to us so it is impossible to compare fabrics on an objective spec sheet.