Sitka’s Apex Pant Evolution The Sitka Apex pant, known for its functionality and versatility, has been my top choice for archery elk and mule deer. September and October have seen me wearing the pant extensively due to its superior performance. However, Sitka Gear has given the Apex pant an upgrade, renaming it the Intercept Pant.

Introducing the Sitka Intercept Pant Weighing in at 19 ounces, the Intercept Pant maintains the versatility that made the Apex a favorite amongst mountain hunters. Three significant updates have been introduced, including a new fabric, redesigned kneepads, and the integration of side-zip thigh vents.

Intercept Pant’s Enhanced Features The addition of thigh vents to the Intercept Pant is the most noticeable upgrade. These one-way zippers commence a few inches below the belt line and terminate just behind the thigh cargo pocket. This 14-inch length (on a 34 regular size) makes for an excellent upgrade to the previous model.

The Intercept Pant now features a raised merino-poly blend grid backer fabric to aid in odor control. It’s partnered with a bonded nylon face layer for better tear resistance, pattern retention, and quietness. This fabric upgrade ensures enhanced durability, yet the pant retains its exceptional performance across a range of conditions and temperatures.

Improved Kneepad Design Sitka Gear has also redesigned the kneepads and kneepad pockets in the Intercept Pant. The new kneepads are D30s, ergonomically shaped for improved knee articulation. They offer better impact resistance and breathability compared to the older version. The kneepad pockets now allow for top loading via the thigh vent, making changes while wearing the pant effortless.

Intercept Pant: Versatile and Efficient The design of the Intercept Pant is both trim and efficient, minimizing loose fabric that can snag on brush or cause excess noise. Its articulated cut and stretch nylon fabric ensure unrestricted movement, making hiking and climbing comfortable and chafe-free. The zippered thigh vents provide excellent heat regulation, upgrading an already high-quality pant to an excellent one.

Top-Notch Durability The Intercept Pant exhibits outstanding durability with its sturdy construction and new nylon-faced fabric. The fabric has withstood rough terrain, bushwhacking, and abrasions, and the pattern has not faded with heavy use. The pants’ rugged zippers and D30 pads remain intact and functional, enhancing the pants’ overall durability.

Intercept Pant: Low Noise Level The fabric of the Intercept Pant has been designed for minimal noise production. In silent surroundings, it’s barely noticeable. Its cargo pocket is designed with mesh dividers for silent, secure storage, making it perfect for close-range encounters.

Weather Resistance With a bonded merino wool blend, the Intercept Pant stays warm in colder temperatures and dries quickly. The fabric offers light rain repellence and mild breeze resistance, ensuring warmth in exposed environments. Internal moisture management is excellent, thanks to the grid-backed fabric, mesh-lined pockets, and large thigh vents.

Final Thoughts The Sitka Gear Intercept Pant is an excellent upgrade to its predecessor, the Apex Pant. It’s a durable, high-performing garment that excels in early to midseason hunts and can adapt to late-season conditions with proper layering. The Intercept Pant, with its enhanced features and new fabric, is a reliable hunting companion, ready for chasing elk and mule deer this September and October.