When it comes to outfitting hunters for the great outdoors, selling rain gear is about more than just offering protection from wet weather. It’s about equipping your customers with the right tools to stay comfortable, dry, effective and safe in the field. Whether your clientele includes backcountry hunters chasing elk through rugged terrain or waterfowlers braving wind and rain in flooded marshes, the rain gear you recommend can make or break their experience. To sell rain gear the right way, you need to understand the different types of materials, their strengths and weaknesses, and how they meet the specific needs of hunters.
Types of Rain Gear
Rain gear is not a one-size-fits-all category. Hunters have unique needs based on the type of hunting they do, the environments they face, and their personal preferences. Understanding the key differences between waterproof, breathable membranes; DWR-coated gear; and even rubber or vinyl rainwear will help you guide customers toward the best choice for their situation.
Waterproof, Breathable Membranes: My, how things have changed with the advent of breathable rain gear!
Waterproof, breathable membranes are the pinnacle of rain gear technology. These materials — often marketed under names like GORE-TEX, eVent, Sympatex or any one of many other proprietary membranes — are designed to block water droplets while allowing moisture vapor from sweat to escape. The result is a fabric that keeps hunters dry without making them feel clammy or overheated. For hunters who plan to hike long distances or climb steep terrain, like those targeting elk or mountain goats, this type of rainwear is a game-changer. Lightweight and packable, it provides protection without weighing them down.
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Coated Gear: DWR-coated rain gear is a simpler, more affordable alternative. These garments have a water-repellent finish applied to the fabric’s surface, causing rain to bead up and roll off. While this coating works well initially, it tends to wear off over time, especially with repeated exposure to dirt, oils and washing. Hunters who don’t venture into extreme environments might find this type of rainwear perfectly suitable.
Rubber/Vinyl Rain Gear: Rubber rain gear may seem old-school, but it remains a solid choice for certain types of hunting and other outdoor activities (think “Deadliest Catch”-type weather). This style of rainwear is entirely waterproof, making it an excellent option for hunters who prioritize staying dry over breathability. Duck hunters, commercial fishermen, charter boat guides and others who spend long hours in cold, wet environments appreciate the durability and absolute water-blocking ability of rubber rain gear. Brands like Grundéns and Helly Hansen are leaders in this category, offering heavy-duty rubber rain jackets and bibs that are particularly popular. Rubber rainwear tends to be heavier and less breathable, but for situations where breathability isn’t as important — such as sitting on a boat or in a blind for hours — this gear gets the job done.
Rivers West is a brand worth mentioning here. While they don’t produce true rubber gear, their heavyweight waterproof fleece offers a similar level of weather resistance combined with warmth, making it a great hybrid solution for hunters facing cold, wet conditions. While their heaviest waterproof gear isn’t very breathable, it is warm and guaranteed to keep you dry.
Helping Customers Choose
When working with customers, it’s essential to ask enough questions that help determine their needs. A backcountry hunter looking for lightweight rain gear with maximum packability will have different priorities than a waterfowler seeking something rugged, ultra-waterproof and windproof. Understanding these distinctions allows you to steer them toward the right product. For example, a First Lite Vapor Stormlight jacket might be perfect for someone who values extreme portability, breathability and quiet fabrics, while a Rivers West Original Waterproof Fleece might be perfect for a cold sit in the duck blind on a rainy day. For those who need something budget-friendly or something that they can keep in the truck or their hunting pack for their local tree stand sits, Frogg Toggs remains a solid option, as does the new rain gear from Muddy Outdoors.
Caring for Rain Gear
Rain gear, and especially high-performance gear with waterproof, breathable membranes, requires proper care to maintain its effectiveness. As a retailer, you have an opportunity to educate your customers on this and sell them the right maintenance products.
One of the most important aspects of care is cleaning. Specialized detergents like Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger’s Performance Wash are designed to clean rain gear without damaging its waterproofing. Many customers don’t realize that using regular laundry detergents can clog the small pores in the breathable membrane, reducing breathability and waterproofing over time. DWR-coated rainwear (and all breathable membranes require a DWR on the outer layer to work properly) also requires occasional reapplication of the coating. Products like Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On can restore the water-repellent finish, ensuring the gear continues to perform well in wet conditions.
Stocking these care products alongside your rain gear can turn a one-item sale into a package deal and/or bring that customer back for another purchase later.
Proper storage of rain gear is critical. Folding and compressing rain gear for long periods can damage the materials, as can leaving them in a hot vehicle or garage. Customers should be encouraged to store their gear loosely in a cool, dry place.
Top Choices for Different Hunters
First Lite has built a strong reputation in the hunting industry by designing apparel that prioritizes performance, durability and comfort in the field. The First Lite Vapor Stormlight Rain Jacket is a prime example of the brand’s dedication to top-tier hunting apparel. This ultralight rain jacket, weighing just 12 ounces, is designed for backcountry hunters who need full waterproof protection without added bulk. Built with a three-layer construction featuring a proprietary waterproof membrane, it offers impressive breathability, ensuring that hunters stay dry from both external moisture and internal perspiration. The Vapor Stormlight is also highly packable, folding down into a compact size that fits easily into a backpack. While it may not be the best option for hunters needing heavy-duty rain protection while busting brush or for day-long sits in driving rain, it excels for those who prioritize mobility and weight savings without sacrificing protection.
Stone Glacier makes apparel and gear for the serious backcountry hunter. The Stone Glacier M5 Jacket is an essential piece of rain gear for backcountry hunters who demand lightweight, durable, and highly waterproof protection. Designed with a three-layer HydraShield waterproof membrane, this jacket delivers exceptional weather resistance while maintaining breathability, preventing overheating during high-exertion pursuits in rugged terrain. Unlike many heavy-duty rain jackets that can feel stiff or restrictive, the M5 is engineered with a quiet, stretchable face fabric that enhances mobility and minimizes noise — critical for hunters stalking game. The articulated fit, strategically placed vents, and extended tail that provides better coverage without restricting movement makes it ideal for long treks and unpredictable mountain conditions.
The new Frogg Toggs FTX Rain Gear lineup brings a blend of affordability and performance to hunters needing lightweight, packable, waterproof protection. Designed with Frogg Toggs’ proprietary FTX fabric technology, this rainwear delivers an impressive balance of breathability and durability, making it a solid choice for hunters facing unpredictable weather. Unlike traditional rain gear that can feel bulky or restrictive, the FTX series offers a more flexible fit, allowing for better mobility while trekking through the woods or setting up in a blind. New this year is its availability in Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage. Whether your customer is enduring steady drizzle or unexpected downpours, the FTX series provides reliable protection without the excess weight, making it an excellent option for hunters looking for functional rain gear they can keep in their pack as a “just in case” at a budget-friendly price.
Muddy Outdoors has recently introduced its Timber Recon Extreme (TRX) Lightweight Rain Jacket and pants set, designed to meet the demands of hunters facing practically any challenging weather conditions. It has a 10k/10k waterproof and breathability rating, ensuring that wearers stay dry without overheating during all-day hunts. The outer shell is constructed from soft, silent brushed tricot, providing durability and noise reduction — essential for remaining undetected in the field. A breathable mesh lining enhances comfort, while adjustable cuffs and a rear hook-and-loop hood adjustment allow for a personalized fit that seals out the elements. Additionally, the jacket features two hand pockets and a chest pocket, each equipped with silent, durable zippers to keep essential gear secure and accessible.
Remember, selling rain gear isn’t just about pushing products. It’s about connecting hunters with the gear that will keep them comfortable, effective, and in more than a few cases, alive in the field. Whether they need lightweight, packable and breathable rainwear for backcountry adventures, durable, heavy-duty gear for waterfowl hunting, or an affordable set for those “Oh crap, the weather man was wrong!” experiences, your expertise can make a big difference for them and for your store. By understanding the nuances of waterproof materials, recommending proper care and accessories, and preparing for changes in the industry, you’ll position your store as a trusted resource. Brands like Stone Glacier, First Lite, Frogg Toggs and Rivers West offer a range of options for every type of hunter, and with the right approach, you’ll turn rain gear into a key driver of customer satisfaction and sales.
The PFAS Ban and Its Impact
The PFAS ban is reshaping the way rain gear is manufactured, as companies phase out these long-used chemicals in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made compounds historically applied to waterproof outdoor apparel, “waterproof down” materials, and even your cookware (Teflon is a PFAS) due to their exceptional resistance to water, oil and stains.
Recent data from the National Center for Health Statistics estimated that 97% of Americans have PFAS in their bloodstream — and it will likely be there for the rest of their life. Concerns over their long-term environmental impact and many potential health risks have led to increasing regulations and outright bans on their use as soon as this year. As a result, rain gear manufacturers are now shifting toward PFAS-free durable water-repellent coatings and advanced membrane technologies to maintain waterproof performance without relying on these potentially harmful chemicals.
This transition could lead to shifts in product pricing, availability, and durability, requiring retailers to stay informed about emerging alternatives. To remain competitive, retailers should educate their customers on PFAS-free rain gear options and be prepared to offer new products that comply with evolving regulations. GORE-TEX, for instance, has announced a commitment to reducing its environmental impacts and is making changes as we speak, while manufacturers like First Lite and Stone Glacier are already leading the charge for change.
Because of these legal changes, it’s important to prepare your customers for the potential changes in product availability, care and pricing. Alternatives may come with higher price tags initially, but they align with the growing demand for eco-friendly products. Position your store as an advocate for sustainability by stocking brands that are ahead of the curve and educating your customers about the benefits of these new materials.
Accessories to Recommend
Selling rain gear isn’t just about the waterproof-ness or marketing messages pushing certain brand jackets and pants. Offering complementary accessories can boost your bottom line. Waterproof storage bags are a great add-on for keeping rain gear dry and organized during hunts. Repair kits are another valuable tool for hunters heading into remote areas, allowing them to patch small tears or holes in the field. You might also recommend drying racks or hangers designed specifically for rain gear to help customers dry their garments without damaging them.
