Gear Roundup: Bowhunting Apparel

Make sure your stick-and-string patrons are dressed to kill this season with the best in bowhunting apparel.

Gear Roundup: Bowhunting Apparel

As fall approaches, bowhunters sift through their hunting gear closets, looking for garments and accessories that will keep them comfortable during those long vigils on stand — or those run-and-gun and sneak-and-peek forays that require stealth and flexibility. Many hunters fall short and pay the price. Only when they can comfortably brave those warm (or even hot) early season sits or cold late-season marathons — fidget free — will they optimize their hours on stand or in the field, and that means dressing for the occasion.

Fortunately for today’s bowhunters, modern textile technology has made this easy, with companies offering high-quality layered clothing systems designed to keep hunters comfortable in any hunting situation — whether it’s warm, cold, rainy, snowy or windy. By matching garments to the hunting conditions, hunters are able to fine-tune their clothing for any conceivable environment. And with each layer or stand-alone garment sporting a favorite camo pattern, they’re always concealed as they shed or put on additional layers. 

When most people consider undergarments and dressing in layers to control body temperature and perspiration, they’re usually thinking cold thoughts. But many of the same clothing principles that keep hunters warm and dry in frigid weather apply when dressing for warm conditions. Regulating core body temperature and dryness begins with high-quality undergarments, and the key to comfort is finding a blend of materials and weights that match ambient temperatures and the level of activity. Today, high-tech materials have replaced much of the clothing staples that served outdoorsmen well for decades — ultra-lightweight space age garments with greater comfort and efficiency.

Cold weather layering typically begins with a high-quality base layer designed for the nastiest conditions. These wool or synthetic undergarments provide warmth during those long sits, and wick sweat away from the body when hunters are on the move. The intermediate layer is often a mid-weight fleece garment, over which a hoodie is added to keep cold and wind off the neck. An outer shell, a warm, moisture resistant, wind-breaking jacket and pants or bibs completes the ensemble. Some garments even come equipped with battery powered electric coils to provide added heat in the most extreme conditions. 

Be sure your patrons stay comfortable (and well hidden) by having a wide array of warm- and cold-weather camo hunting garments on hand that are sure to keep them on stand longer. Check out these top-shelf examples.

Badlands Pyre Jacket
Badlands Pyre Jacket

Badlands Pyre Jacket

Badlands created the Pyre Jacket for frigid sits, when breath freezes in mid-air but retreating from the field just isn’t an option. The 160-gram PrimaLoft Silver fill is outstanding when Jack Frost comes calling. Just to be safe, the Pyre is 100 percent waterproof, too — because cold and wet is a very bad combo. Finally, the Pyre’s articulated arms make it easy to adjust the hood, the cuffs, or get into the interior rangefinder pocket. Other key features include a treestand tether exit port, fully taped waterproof seams, fleece lining, longer coat tail and fleece-lined handwarmer pockets. MSRP: $379.99. badlandsgear.com

Blocker Outdoors Shield Reliant Pants
Blocker Outdoors Shield Reliant Pants

Blocker Outdoors Shield Reliant Pants

Tailored for early to mid-season hunts, Shield Reliant Pants from Blocker Outdoors also accommodate base layers for colder weather while featuring zip hip vents for ventilation in warmer conditions. Enhanced with a S3 anti-microbial treatment, these pants can handle extended use in the field without accumulating unwanted odors, even after multiple days of wear. Reliant pants utilize stretch poly and spandex material, combining durability with exceptional stretchability. Other key features include a six-pocket design (two side, two rear, two cargo), rear waistband elastic for a custom fit and articulated knees for mobility. Shield Reliant pants are available in 30R to 44R waist sizes in Realtree Excape, Realtree APX, Mossy Oak Country Roots and Flint camo patterns. MSRP $59.99. blockeroutdoors.com

Browning Fleece 2.0 Jacket
Browning Fleece 2.0 Jacket

Browning Fleece 2.0 Jacket

The Browning Fleece 2.0 Jacket, made from soft, breathable Berber fleece, was designed with warmth and comfort in mind, while easily fitting underneath outer layers. An attached hood and adjustable cuffs further seal out the elements and keep heat trapped inside on colder days. Zippered hand and chest pockets keep valuables secure. The Fleece 2.0 jacket features a full-length zipper, zippered hand and chest pockets and elastic bound hem and cuff. An excellent choice for late-season bowhunters, it comes in Browning Ovix or Mossy Oak Bottomland camo in sizes Small to 3-XL. MSRP: $94.99. browning.com


Code of Silence RiverWolf Systems Anorak
Code of Silence RiverWolf Systems Anorak

Code of Silence RiverWolf Systems Anorak

The RiverWolf Anorak from Code of Silence is purpose-built for mobile and saddle hunters who demand stealth, flexibility and true scent control. This technically advanced outerwear garment features a Merino-based jacquard knit shell with ScentTech technology for integrated scent management. The jacket includes a two-way quarter-side zip system for silent entry, temperature control and integration with bridge straps on a saddle system, articulated sleeves, a structured three-piece hood and a long drop-tail rear designed for saddle setups. The exterior is a Merino FleeceTec shell with a full WindSeal-TC3 Wind Barrier lining for superior wind resistance without compromising noise reduction or flexibility. Ideal for mid- to late-season deer hunts, this anorak is designed for extreme quietness and controlling scent. Retail: $260-$290. codeofsilence.com

DeWalt Heated Hoodie
DeWalt Heated Hoodie

DeWalt Heated Hoodie 

The DeWalt Heated Hoodie was designed for hunters who won’t let the cold send them home early. With three heat zones strategically placed across the body core and three adjustable heat settings, hunters can stay warm and focused, no matter how long the wait. And the Realtree Xtra camouflage shell helps them disappear into the surroundings, while the thermal waffle knit lining adds comfort and warmth.The hoodie is equipped with a DeWalt 20V battery, delivering hours of continuous heat. Plus, with a fast charger and adapter, it’s always powered up and ready to go. The included USB power adapter also provides juice for recharging a phone or GPS. MSRP: $276. dewalt.com


Kings XKG Covert Hoodie
Kings XKG Covert Hoodie

Kings XKG Covert Hoodie

Highly breathable and quick drying, the XKG Covert Hoodie is a lightweight and versatile garment constructed with durable and quiet pebble four-way stretch fleece that allows it to function as an outer layer for moderate mornings, or an insulation inner layer when temps start to drop. The built-in facemask and three-panel fitted hood add to its versatility because it increases concealment, and Polygiene Odor Control provides functionality and peace of mind for stealth-conscious bowhunters. Additional features include an athletic-fit, flatlock stitched seams, extended back length, zippered hand pockets and a zippered chest pocket. MSRP: $119.99. kingscamo.com


Kryptek Vellus Jacket
Kryptek Vellus Jacket

Kryptek Vellus Jacket

Whether it’s on stand or stalking late-season game, the fleece Kryptek Vellus Jacket is built for hunters who demand stealth, comfort and weatherproof performance. It is 100% waterproof, 100% windproof and fully seam-taped to block out the elements in extreme hunting conditions. The polyester microfleece shell is soft and quiet, while stretch lamination ensures mobility and durability in rugged terrain. Insulated with Thinsulate Platinum XTS, the Vellus delivers powerful warmth from 15°F to 50°F without bulk. This jacket also features X-Static silver fiber technology, which neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, helping to reduce the hunter’s scent signature while extending the life of the garment. MSRP: $259.99. kryptek.com


Radians Camo Heated Hand Warmer
Radians Camo Heated Hand Warmer

Radians Camo Heated Hand Warmer

Radians Camo Heated Hand Warmer is designed for serious archers who brave cold mornings in the stand. It provides the convenience and flexibility of a traditional hand muff with the bonus of battery-powered heat. With a wind-resistant no-noise polyester outer shell and three levels of adjustable heat, this hand warmer keeps fingers warm and nimble. Powered by a lightweight 7.4-volt rechargeable battery, it has three adjustable heat settings, with the Low setting providing 10 hours of run time and the High setting 4 hours. It has two zipper accessory pockets to store essentials, an exterior battery pocket and a USB port for charging mobile devices. MSRP: $119.99. radiansoutdoors.com


ScentLok Ridge Jacket and Pants
ScentLok Ridge Jacket and Pants

ScentLok Ridge Jacket and Pants

ScentLok has fortified its Ridge Jacket and Pants with Carbon Alloy, Silver Alloy and Fusix to provide bowhunters with an excellent midseason outerwear option. Carbon Alloy combines treated carbon, activated carbon and zeolite to absorb odors emitted by the body. Silver Alloy is based on a silver salt solution applied to the fabric to control the growth of bacteria and lasts the life of the garment. Fusix is a proprietary natural anti-odor treatment that effectively removes ambient odors. Odor molecules are adsorbed and broken down to keep the fabric fresh, reducing the need for frequent reactivation. Both garments are available in Realtree APX, Mossy Oak Original Treestand, Mossy Oak Terra Gila and Mossy Oak Country Roots camo patterns. MSRP: $159.99/Each. scentlok.com


Sitka Alpha Fleece Hoodie
Sitka Alpha Fleece Hoodie

Sitka Alpha Fleece Hoodie

Built to take a beating, the Alpha Fleece Hoodie from Sitka Gear features double weave stretch StormFleece that handles rugged environments and wind gusts with ease, while a DWR coating mitigates unexpected moisture during the hunt. The Alpha Fleece Hoodie sports seamless shoulder construction and an intentionally positioned zippered kangaroo pocket to ensure comfort and accessibility while wearing a pack. The low-bulk fitted hood provides coverage without encroaching on field of view. The Sitka Alpha Fleece Hoodie is available in Olive Green, Buckskin and Optifade Subalpine and Optifade Waterfowl Marsh camo. MSRP: $179. sitkagear.com


Treezyn Late Seezyn Gloves
Treezyn Late Seezyn Gloves

Treezyn Late Seezyn Gloves

Attention late-season bowhunters. It is no longer necessary to remove gloves to access gear or operate mobile devices. Treezyn Late Seezyn Hunting Gloves excel not only in warmth, but dexterity — designed so hunters are able to perform at peak level, even while wearing gloves. Late Seezyn Hunting Gloves’ Tech Tough fingers allow users to access their gear and mobile devices without exposure to the elements. Built with non-slip hexagon silicon grips and double-stitched seams to ensure durability, these gloves are machine washable for quick, easy maintenance. Built to last, they are made from 300 GSM bonded microfleece with HexFlow lining. MSRP: $25. treezyn.com


TUO Kinetic Merino 350 Hoodie
TUO Kinetic Merino 350 Hoodie

TUO Kinetic Merino 350 Hoodie

Wool is back in a big way. Not that starchy and scratchy Paul Bunyan checkerboard stuff, but rather a new class of exceptionally designed Merino wool garments. The robust Kinetic Merino 350 Hoodie from TUO is capable of serving as a standalone top in the field, with its fabric blend of 95 percent micron Merino wool and 5 percent spandex for subtle stretch and the benefit of maintaining the hoodie’s original shape. It features three-piece hood and flatlock seams, with a couple unique traits. For one, the inner fabric is brushed for extraordinary comfort. Secondly, bowhunters will welcome the front kangaroo-style pouch pockets for hand warming or storing items securely, as the pockets feature ultra-quiet closures. MSRP: $179.99. tuogear.com




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