The Best Cold Weather Hunting Gear: A Complete Checklist
Being cold is no fun at all. I’m not talking about your hands getting cold while you’re scraping the ice off your windshield or as you walk from the truck to the house.
I mean, down to the core, BONE COLD, for a long period of time.
It is painful, potentially dangerous, and downright scary depending on the situation.
Being prepared for cold weather in the great outdoors will inevitably trickle into your cold weather preparedness in everyday life. Loss of power, and other obstacles that swift winter storms can leave in their wake, can last for days or even weeks.
Being on top of winter weather preps can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience or a serious situation.
If you’re a man who spends time in the outdoors around cold environments, preparedness should be a natural part of your everyday existence and something you really don’t even have to think about, as it has become a way of life.
Living in the remote and hungry country of the inland northwest mountains in the US, it didn’t take me long to realize just how quickly a man can get in trouble out here, especially in cold weather season.
A few close calls and a couple of heart-racing experiences will leave you with a better sense for what you should be prepared for the next time you take out.
Now, I know not every man reading this article today lives in a remote wilderness with harsh winters. In fact, I would venture to say that most of you don’t. This may mean that your sense of urgency for cold weather preparedness is not quite as heightened as mine. Either way, preparedness is still essential, even if help is close by.
A quick, real life example: I know a man who lives in rural Kentucky. He and his wife live in the country but not real far out. He stepped out the back door one very cold winter’s day to go into the woods to take down a couple of “widow makers” and questionable trees that had been on his mind to get rid of for quite some time.
On his way out the door, his wife gave him one last reminder to be safe. This was only 100 yards or so from their back door, just out of the line of sight, so there was no feeling of being far removed from help.
As the man was chainsawing away at the second dead tree, he hadn’t realized that its top was intertwined with the top of the tree next to it, which caused the base to kick out and the tree to fall toward his direction.
Not being able to get out of the way, the tree pinned him between itself and the neighboring tree. The man could not move. With all of his might, he could not break free.
This man did not layer heavy, as he knew that he would only be working for a short period, and set out wearing the bare minimum to get the job done.
After about an hour or so of no noise or activity, his wife began to get a little concerned and thought she would go out to check on him. She found him pinned between these trees and shivering violently.
She quickly called their neighbors and wrapped her husband in warm clothing and brought him a hot drink until they arrived to carefully remove him from this dangerous situation.
This was an eye opener as you might guess. Imagine if, before the man walked out the door to go into his own backyard, his wife kissed him good-bye to go into town for the entire rest of the day. With no way to call anyone or to be heard, that man could have perished from hypothermia in his own backyard just yards from his home. Fortunately, he walked away with a very important lesson and minor injuries.
We cannot predict the future, we can’t be prepared for EVERYTHING, and we don’t need to overreact or freak out.
We should, however, sensibly prepare as best as we can and do everything in our power to be ready for unforeseen cold weather situations and not underestimate them.
We here at Rugged Man actually love winter. With the proper gear, the cold can become surprisingly enjoyable. When you can take your mind off of the discomfort caused by hands and feet going numb, you can begin to focus on the beauty that cold weather can provide, such as the contrasts between the snow and the colors of the forest.
I love the old ways that people kept themselves safe from the bitter elements, to push through extremely harsh conditions. Furs, skins and hides, and other natural materials, used with artisan skill by necessity to survive, have a lasting place in my heart and I do have a desire to live this way.
However, most people live in a fast-paced modern world where it’s awfully difficult to find time to move through the processes it takes to produce cold weather gear like they used to, unless of course this is your hobby and craft in itself and this IS how you spend your time and/or earn income.
For those in the throes of the daily gnaw, TIME, quantitative and qualitative, is of the essence. Fortunately we have some extreme, cutting edge, cold weather technologies- gear designed to help keep us in the field longer despite the conditions.
So, today we’re going to take a look at some of this high-end gear designed to optimize your outdoor pursuits, help keep you safe and warm, and aid you in getting the best results out of your cold weather hunts.
We will be covering the body from head to toe, and discussing the differences between each layer (Base, Mid, and Outer) in our layering system.
Let’s climb up into the stand and start hunting The Best Cold Weather Hunting Gear of 2022!
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essential cold weather gear for hunting in 2022
HANDS:
When your hands are cold you are constantly aware that your hands are cold. This alone already diverts your attention away from the hunt. Not to mention the obvious potential dangers of frostbite, if placed in the wrong situation at the wrong time.
I like to take at least 2 pairs of gloves into the field with me and I always have at least a mid-size emergency back-up pair for “just in case” scenarios. One heavy-duty and ultra-warm thick pair, and another thinner pair that I can still shoot with that can act as a liner until I’m ready to pull the trigger.
For bow and arrow, the same can apply, but this is also when a good hand muffler or warmer comes in real handy.
Don’t forget to throw some Hot Hands hand warmers in the pack. They’re great for long cold stints in the tree stand when there is not a lot of movement going on and they fit right in the palm. They can also be tossed into pockets when not being used on the hands and potentially act as body warmers.
Sitka Gear Blizzard GTX Mitten
The Blizzard GTX Mitten is a beast of a glove made of rugged waterproof material on the outside to protect your hands from rain and snow. It has a removable insulated liner to deliver warmth in frigid conditions.
By not separating the fingers, these mittens allow the fingers to remain together underneath the Gore-Tex laminate shell for added warmth. The shell and liner can also be worn independent of each other to adapt to the fluid conditions of big game pursuits in late-season conditions.
Pittarrd Oiltac leather palms provide tactile sensitivity in the most adverse conditions, allowing you to glass through rain, sleet and snow.
These gloves are crucial to keep your hands warm and protected whether you’re actively trekking or sitting for long periods of time in harsh conditions.
FEATURES:
GORE OPTIFADE Concealment Open Country is scientifically optimized for engagement ranges of 50 yards and beyond at ground level in rocky terrain above the timber line
Weight: 18.4 oz. / Size: L
Waterproof 3-layer GORE-TEX Shell
Synthetic Leather Palm
PrimaLoft Gold Insulated Liner
GORE-TEX 3-Layer Laminate
100 % Waterproof and Breathable
Removable Insulated Liner
Pittard's Oiltac High-Grip Leather Palm gives you complete control of your weapon
PrimaLoft Technology
Primos Stretch-Fit Gloves are a perfect set of gloves to wear by themselves in milder weather or as liner glove underneath a heavy set of mittens in extreme cold.
They’re also tight to the skin which is great for when it’s time to pull the trigger or draw back your bow.
Primos Stretch-Fit gloves with sure-grip are cool and breathable with a 5″ extended cuff and one size fits most people.
Being so super light-weight, they allow the hunter to feel most everything their bare hand would feel meaning that they can effectively pull the trigger or draw back the bow with optimal sensitivity while still providing a small layer of insulation.
They also serve a dual purpose by having a long fit that covers the gap between the glove and jacket. This eliminates the discomfort caused by that small gap keeping you from potentially moving and possibly being seen by game.
FEATURES:
Moisture Wicking
Doubles as Glove Liner
5” Extended Cuff
One Size Fits Most
Breathable
Browning Wicked Wing Insulated Hand Warmer
Not only will your hands stay warm, and not only will you be able to manipulate your shotgun more effectively, but you will also have your gear and ammo right there where you can find it.
We love the Browning Wicked Wing Insulated Hand Warmer! A highly valuable item!
Even in the worst conditions the 3mm neoprene construction gives highly weather-resistant performance, allowing the fleece-lined hand compartment with internal hand-warmer pockets to keep your hands in optimal condition.
To top things off, a zip valuables pouch keeps vital items secure and protected.
On days where the sleet comes in sideways and the cold seems to penetrate every piece of gear you’re wearing, this may be one of the most important pieces you own.
FEATURES:
3mm neoprene construction
Fleece-lined hand-warmer compartment with internal pockets
20 shell loops
Dual bellows pockets each hold a box of shells
Zip valuables pouch
Adjustable nylon belt with buckle
Fits up to a 60" waist size
FEET:
Your feet are your roots, your direct connection between you and the ground. When they don’t work, you don’t move. At least not very efficiently.
Every step you take is taken for granted when you don’t have foot pain or discomfort. We don’t have to think much about walking when everything is going well and as planned. Let’s keep it that way by preparing.
There is little in which we ruminate over more on a long cold hike, than the remembrance of better times (an hour ago), when our feet were warm and without blister. THAT is when we are reminded of the importance of taking care of our feet and, by THEN, it’s too late. You’re in it now, mister! Never forget and always prepare and you’ll be all the happier a hunter!
Don’t forget to throw some extra toe and foot warmers in the pack before you head out. This can be a real morale booster toward the end of a long cold hunt and you can usually pack enough for a pal or two.
Darn Tough Hunter (Over The Calf Extra Cushion)
We must remember that a pair of high quality boots only go so far in the efforts of taking care of our feet in cold weather hunting conditions.
A high quality sock is of utmost importance in combination with our boots to optimize the protection and care of our feet on cold and unforgiving terrain.
In fact, squeezing in extra pairs of socks into the pack is a must for us here at Rugged Man. We feel it’s just that important.
The Darn Tough Hunter is one of the burliest hunting socks on the market. When conditions are at their coldest, this is your sock. Extra heavy terry loop construction protects your entire foot and leg for maximum warmth.
FEATURES:
Performance Fit: No slipping, no bunching, and no blisters
Fine Gauge Knitting: Unprecedented durability “put it on, forget it’s on”
Fast Action Wicking: Pulls moisture away from skin. Fast drying
All Weather Performance: Cool in the summer, warm in the winter
Naturally Antimicrobial: Repels bacteria and odor
Guaranteed For Life: No strings. No conditions. For life!
Extra Cushion: Thick and burly, high density cushioning
Over the Calf Height
79% Merino Wool 19% Nylon 2% Lycra Spandex
Think of these as the same as you would think about glove liners. Consider them sock liners.
The compression offers a really nice supportive feel and supposedly the copper lining offers some health benefits. That is not our claim, but the claim of the technology.
These are wonderful base layer socks and work extremely well underneath a good solid quality wool sock. If you’ve never experimented with this, we would definitely recommend giving it a try.
FEATURES:
Longer durability
Aids with joint and muscle recovery
Offers rejuvenating relief from arthritis, aches and pains
Enhances blood circulation
Stimulates oxygen airflow to the muscles
Minimizes injury
Offers optimal muscle support during casual everyday activities
Can be comfortably worn all day and night
Copper Ions bind to the fibers to help reduce odor
High Performance fabric keeps an optimal calf/foot temperature
BOOTS:
Now that we’ve decided on a solid pair of socks, we need to take a look at the first line of defense for your feet, your boots!
Like we mentioned earlier, your feet are like roots to the ground and when they’re not working correctly it puts, at a minimum, a strain on the day.
A high quality and high thermal boot will keep your feet warm and protected and allow you to focus on what is important that day, hunting!
LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18″
Built from a proud tradition of quality and innovation, the Alphaburly Pro is a superb hunting boot. For many generations, hunters have been wearing LaCrosse rubber boots.
Extreme cold and harsh terrain are traversed with confidence with this boots scent-free durable rubber and a thick cushioning EVA mid-sole for added comfort. An embossed liner for better air circulation and an adjustable rear gusset for the perfect fit add to this boots outstanding features.
Wherever the hunt leads you, the Alphaburly Pro is always ready and able to give you extreme traction to move through demanding terrain while its chamfered edges keep you nimble and quick by shedding excess mud and debris.
The Alphaburly Pro proves that durability and flexibility can comfortably coexist in a boot.
FEATURES:
ALPHA CONSTRUCTION Built with hand-laid premium, natural rubber over insulating neoprene for durability, flexibility and complete waterproof protection
1600G THINSULATE ULTRA High-performance insulation that keeps you warm in the snow and rain without weighing you down
COMFORT LINER Quick drying and moisture wicking, jersey knit liner will keep your feet dry and comfortable
REALTREE EDGE Using warm grays and browns that are found all year round, Realtree Edge utilizes pockets of shadows and highlights that allow the pattern to stay open at a distance, unlike other patterns that start to run together
ACTIVE FIT With a comfortable, secure fit to keep your foot in place while on the move, boots with Active Fit also go on and come off with ease
NEOPRENE GUSSET Durable, neoprene gusset accommodates different calf sizes and makes it easy to slide the boot on and off
BURLY PRO OUT-SOLE Unique tread pattern and chamfered edges
Danner Pronghorn 8" 1200G Gore-Tex
The Danner Pronghorn 8” has been a trusted cornerstone in the Danner hunt line for almost two decades.
In fact, there are a lot of Danner customers who rely on this boot and this boot only for their outdoor needs and have stuck with Danner through every incarnation of the Pronghorn. I guess you could call them, “Pronghorn Purests”.
Our favorite cold weather lace up boot, the Danner Pronghorn 8" 1200G Gore-Tex has been through 5 generations of technology to be where it is today and where it has always been through every incarnation, ON TOP!
FEATURES:
FULL-GRAIN LEATHER UPPER Danner puts their leather through six different tests before making a selection
GORE-TEX (GTX) 100% waterproof and breathable liners ensure that no water gets in, while allowing sweat and moisture to get out
1200G PRIMALOFT INSULATION PrimaLoft Gold Insulation offers best-in-class insulation for repeated compression and durability, making it the go-to choice for insulated footwear.
VIBRAM SPE MIDSOLE This rubberized EVA mid-sole maintains the same cushioning properties as traditional EVA, but is more durable and won’t break down as easily. This technology enhances rebound, comfort and support.
VIBRAM PRONGHORN OUTSOLE This fifth generation out-sole is extremely rugged and responds well in diverse terrain. It provides better grip and fits seamlessly into the Pronghorn’s streamlined, lower profile design.
TERRA FORCE NEXT PLATFORM Combines an internal and external shank system which helps to provide arch support and torsion control.
HOW IT FITS True to size with an athletic and supportive fit while providing ample room in the toe. Offering a specific heel shape that locks the heel in place for better fit and comfort on the back end of the boot, this supportive fit is ideal for those needing high mileage performance from their gear.
365-DAY WARRANTY If you suspect your purchase isn’t up to Danner’s unrelenting standards, or is defective in any way, Danner wants to make things right and offer a 365-day warranty across their entire footwear line.
BASE LAYER:
Layering for the long haul during cold weather conditions is essential, and just like you wouldn’t skimp on the foundation of your home, you shouldn’t cut corners with your body’s foundation base layer either.
A good cold weather base layer should provide moisture wicking technologies with warmth and breathability, allowing you to maintain the most important thing in extreme cold conditions, your central core body heat.
On a side note, we always suggest throwing some body warmers in the pack before taking out on a long cold hunt. They’re very lightweight, take up very little space, and can make a marked difference in morale and comfort.
First Lite Kiln Crew Top
The First Lite Kiln Crew incorporates a re-engineered fit into a new midweight 250 Merino-X fabric to create an essential part of your layering system. Worn as either a base layer or a mid layer, its guaranteed to keep you comfortable and odor-free all season long.
The Kiln midweight 250 Merino-X fabric utilizes ultrafine, 18.5 micron merino wool in a high loft, interlock knit to create styles that surpass expectations in the broadest range of temperature and weather conditions. Blending a small component of spandex into this knit, these lofted interlock pieces can withstand extended hunts in the field.
FEATURES:
True to size: Purchase your normal size to wear over or under other layers
18.5 micron, superfine merino wool
95% merino / 5% spandex
Interlock knit for high loft insulation and moisture management
Modified raglan sleeve moves seams out from under backpack shoulder straps
Flatlock seams for next-to-skin comfort
Machine wash, line dry
First Lite Furnace Long John Bottom
The Furnace Long John provides lofted insulation and protection from the coldest temperatures. This base layer system is the new standard for stationary hunts or late season stalks when staying warm is critical to success.
Featuring flatlock seams, a brushed, jacquard waistband and an articulated fit, the Furnace Long John leverages the loft, structure and stretch of Merino-X fabric.
Furnace EXP 350 Merino-X fabric incorporates a brushed (or fleeced) backside to high loft, interlock knits to provide super-charged insulation without added weight. Adding this to the silent, odor-free benefits of merino wool, the Furnace merino is the hands-down choice for cold weather hunts.
FEATURES:
True to size: Purchase your normal size to wear over or under other layers
20.5 micron, superfine merino wool
95% merino / 5% spandex
Expedition weight, fleeced Merino fabric for extreme cold
Full length
Jacquard waistband
Fully functional fly
Flatlock seams
MID LAYER:
The primary purpose of a good mid-layer is to provide insulation.
Worn on top of the base layer and underneath the outerwear, the position and function are just like that of the insulation in your home, sandwiched between layers and creating a buffer where the heat that is generated from your body can remain trapped, keeping you warm and toasty.
You might wear more than one mid-layer at a time depending on how cold it is. This allows you to add on if you need more warmth or peel off those extra layers if you feel yourself getting hot enough to produce more than a little sweat.
Sweating is not uncommon when hiking out on a hunt in cold weather conditions and lots of layers. However, you want to keep a close eye on this. A little perspiration is unavoidable. A lot of perspiration can go badly with a quickness if you’re not prepared.
Hopefully you’ve already made the right choices for a solid moisture wicking base layer and are ready to move forward with the next in your layering system, the mid-layer(s).
SITKA Gear Gradient Pant
The Gradient Pant is a pair you’ll want to wear long after the hunt is over. Gore Windstopper Technology shelters hunters with durable high-gauge knit face fabric shielding you from bone-chilling winds and covers the high-loft Berber fleece backer for unrivaled warmth.
Combining comfort and durability, this membrane works with a good base layer to prevent overheating and perspiration build-up by allowing moisture vapor to easily escape, keeping things dry and temperate.
The Gradient would be a welcome addition to any cold weather layer system and performs exceptionally well under a bib or waders.
The elastic straps that go under your feet prevent them from riding up when you are putting on your waders or muck boots, making them perfect for colder hunts.
FEATURES:
GORE OPTIFADE Concealment Waterfowl Marsh: Designed for layout and blind hunting in the marsh, standing crops, and cut stubble fields.
Weight: 26.1 oz. / Size: L
Fabric: High-Gauge Polyester Knit Face, Mechanical Stretch Bonded to a High Loft Fleece Backer.
Durable Water Repellent: This finish resists light precipitation and prevents the face fabric from wetting out.
Built-In Belt: The built-in belt allows you to customize the fit under layers.
Diagonal Thigh Pocket: Zippered thigh pocket keeps essentials secure and accessible.
Built-In Stirrups: The foot stirrups keep the pant from riding up when slipping into waders or your favorite rubber boots.
Articulated Fit: The Gradient Pant offers an articulated fit with a fully gusseted crotch for a maximum range of motion with minimal bulk.
SITKA Gear Gradient Hoody
The Gradient Hoody rides the line of super technical and incredibly comfortable all in one and will be an instant favorite in your cold weather layering system.
This dynamic to static layering piece features high-loft Berber fleece for core-heat insulation while Optifade concealment patterns let you wear it as an outer layer when setting decoys.
The built in mesh face mask deploys easily for complete concealment while the integrated thumb-hole cuffs provide additional warmth and allow for smooth layering.
An integrated Berber fleece-lined hand muff keeps your fingers warm and dexterous, while an upper storage pocket keeps small essentials secure and accessible.
It’s not uncommon for folks to just wear the Gradient Hoody around just about everywhere they go because it is that stylish, comfortable, and warm.
FEATURES:
GORE OPTIFADE Concealment Waterfowl Marsh: Designed for layout and blind hunting in the marsh, standing crops, and cut stubble fields.
Weight: 25.8 oz. / Size L
Fabric: High-Gauge Polyester Knit Face, Mechanical Stretch Bonded to a High Loft Fleece Backer.
Durable Water Repellent: This finish resists light precipitation and prevents the face fabric from wetting out.
Built-In Face Mask!
Lower Handmuff Pocket and Upper Storage Pocket: An integrated Berber fleece-lined hand muff keeps your fingers warm and dexterous, and an upper storage pocket keeps small essentials secure and accessible.
Thumbhole Cuff: Integrated thumb-hole cuffs provide additional warmth and allow for smooth layering.
OUTER LAYER:
Your choice for an outer layer will be your first line of defense. This is the protective shell of your “house”.
It needs to be tough enough to withstand the elements, while still allowing you to be agile enough to climb, reach, twist and bend.
If you’ve got a decent hike ahead of you, you will likely not last long in your outer layer before you are stuffing it in your pack, and packability is something that you certainly want to consider if you’re a back-country hunter.
If you’re going to be in a stand and/or glassing for long periods of time, you’ll need something to keep you comfortably warm while sitting perfectly still. This could be during some downright nasty conditions, so choose wisely.
As I said before, a lot of our gear today has a fairly hefty price tag. Depending on how serious you are, this cold weather layering system is worth every penny and, if taken care of, could last you a lifetime of hunts.
Sitka Gear Blizzard Parka
The Sitka Gear Blizzard Parka will keep you toasty and comfortable so that you are more than ready for the moment that you’ve been waiting for all season.
The Blizzard Parka pairs with the Sitka Gear Blizzard Bib Pant to “secure you into a 2-layer GORE-TEX vault of the world’s first water-repellent hybrid insulation, creating a walking, stalking sleeping bag that’s 100% waterproof.”
Sealed cuffs keep water out and heat in while the fleece lined pockets keep the hands toasty.
The drop away hood leaves your peripheral vision intact while holding in heat and hangs comfortably down your back without pulling at your collar when not in use.
The Sitka Gear Blizzard Parka is the ultimate in outer layer protection in the harshest of cold climates, hands down!
FEATURES:
Gore Optifade Concealment Open Country: Scientifically optimized for engagement ranges of 50 yards and beyond at ground level in rocky terrain above the timber line.
Weight: 40 oz. / Size: L
Fabric: Waterproof 2-Layer GORE-TEX Laminate.
Insulation: 5.5 oz. of 60% 650-Fill Power White Duck Down, 40% Ultrafine PrimaLoft Fibers, Polyester Weave.
GORE-TEX Laminate and PrimaLoft Hybrid Insulation: The jacket is insulated throughout with the world’s first water-repellent hybrid insulation of 60% 650-fill power white duck down and 40% ultra-fine PrimaLoft fibers. This is wrapped in 2 layers of GORE-TEX membrane and concealed with a highly durable polyester face fabric.
Fully Adjustable Rotating Hood: The drop-away hood leaves your peripheral vision intact while holding in heat and hangs comfortably down your back without pulling at your collar when not in use.
Water-Sealing Cuffs: Keep water out and heat in.
2 Hand Warmer Pockets: Fleece lined to keep hands toasty.
GORE-TEX Technology: Garments made with GORE-TEX fabrics are durably waterproof, lightweight, and extremely breathable.
PrimaLoft Technology: PrimaLoft products are the ultimate in insulation technology for hunters. Ultra-fine fibers are engineered to retain maximum warmth even when wet.
2 Chest and Shell Pockets
Sitka Gear Blizzard Bib Pant
The perfect mate for the Blizzard Parka, the Sitka Gear Blizzard Bib Pant is the ultimate in extended exposure hunts where a lot of patience inside of a lot of harsh conditions combine.
These pants will keep you more than ready to take that shot when the moment finally comes.
3/4 side zips allow for venting and make for an easy on, easy off situation as conditions change and zippered hip pockets and quiet snap cargo pockets keep you organized.
A high seat back and suspenders keep the piece in place to seal out cold in any position while the reinforced seat provides extra protection when riding and hunkering down in rugged country.
FEATURES:
Gore Optifade Concealment Open Country: Scientifically optimized for engagement ranges of 50 yards and beyond at ground level in rocky terrain above the timber line.
Weight: 42.4 oz. / Size: L
Fabric: Waterproof 3-Layer GORE-TEX Laminate.
Insulation: 6.8 oz. of 60% 650-Fill Power White Duck Down, 40% Ultra-fine PrimaLoft Fibers, Polyester Weave
Durable Water Repellent: This finish resists light precipitation and prevents the face fabric from wetting out.
3/4 Side Zips: 3/4 side zips allow for venting and make for an easy on/off as conditions change.
Secure Pockets: Zippered hip pockets and quiet snap cargo pockets keep you organized.
Reinforced Seat: The seat is reinforced for extra protection when riding and hunkering down in rugged country.
The Blizzard Bib Pant is insulated throughout with the world’s first water-repellent hybrid insulation of 60% 650-fill power white duck down and 40% ultra-fine PrimaLoft fibers. This is wrapped in 3 layers of GORE-TEX membrane and concealed with a highly durable polyester face fabric.
Bib Styling For Added Protection: A high seat back and suspenders keep the piece in place to seal out cold in any position
GORE-TEX Technology: Garments made with GORE-TEX fabrics are durably waterproof, lightweight, and extremely breathable.
PrimaLoft Technology: PrimaLoft products are the ultimate in insulation technology for hunters. Ultra-fine fibers are engineered to retain maximum warmth even when wet.
HEAD, NECK, & FACE:
I don’t think I have to tell you how important it is to protect your head, neck, and face. Besides the fact that your brain is there, a lot of precious body heat can escape through the cranium making it crucial that you trap that heat with some sort of hat or insulated cover. We are going to take a look at a few options here in which to do so.
Also, your neck, that area that we just inherently guard anyway, is the gateway between your head and your core, or torso. This is another way that precious life saving warmth can be lost if not covered properly.
And, the face. It houses our eyes, nose, and mouth. Utmost importance and not much more to say here, really. Let’s see what we can do to protect these invaluable parts.
First Lite Wind River Balaclava
The First Lite Wind River Balaclava was designed for those cold fall and winter days when concealment, warmth and comfort are what you need to make your hunt comfortable and successful.
Slip the Wind River over your head and you will feel the comfort of super-fine Merino-X wool that is odor resistant with no treatments or chemicals.
As you spot and stalk the trophy you have been waiting for, you can do so with precision, as you are not distracted by the elements. The Wind River Balaclava retains heat when soaking wet, to keep your focus on the hunt razor sharp.
A simple, must-have accessory for any type of cold weather hunt.
FEATURES:
Size: One Size Fits All
Merino-X construction
Merino is naturally odor resistant with no treatments or chemicals to wear out
Retains heat when soaking wet for safety
Unique two-piece design with ear holes to aid hearing
Born in 1987, the A18 Watch Hat quickly rose as an icon.
Originally designed as a work-wear essential, it can now be found just about anywhere by people doing just about everything, and being warn for just one purpose, to keep your noggin warm!
This is an inexpensive, but very effective way to get the job done and it already comes in hunter orange. Thick acrylic yarn makes this hat a warm option for the colder months. Soft to the touch, the rib knit creates a stay-put fit.
FEATURES:
100% acrylic rib knit
Fold-up cuff with Carhartt patch
Imported colors: Black, Brite Lime, Brite Orange, Dark Green, Carhartt Brown, Coal Heather, Dark Brown, Navy, Winter White, Black / White Marl, Dark Brown / Sandstone Marl, Deep Wine, Red / Navy Marl
Colors Made in the USA: Heather Grey, Hunter Green / Black Marl, Dark Blue / Navy Marl, Burlwood, Carhartt Gold, Tarmac Stripe, Balsam Green, Olivine / Olive Marl, Umber, Henna / Dark Cedar Marl, Steel Blue Stripe
Yukon Tracks Alaskan Taslon Fur Hat
Yukon Tracks Original Alaskan Fur Hats are ready to keep you warm and comfortable no matter what your doing, and that includes hunting.
Made famous by northern explorers and military pilots, these cold weather hats are great for outdoors and wilderness applications. Not to mention, stylish.
Whether you are out trapping, stalking, tree stand hunting, or hiking in 15 miles to set up camp, Yukon Tracks Alaskan Hats offer an attractive and original line for your winter weather pursuits.
FEATURES:
Genuine rabbit fur trim with soft, quilted lining
Snaps fasten the forehead flap, while the ear-flaps can be worn up or down, using the snap-lock buckle to secure them in place
Sewn buttons on each side allow for radio-hole flaps to be worn up or down
Shell material made with Realtree Camo pattern
Dry Clean Only
Since 1982 Turtle Fur has been a leading head-wear and accessories brand in the outdoor, snow sports and lifestyle markets.
These days, Turtle Fur has expanded horizons to sell a robust selection of hats, necks, gear, and apparel in many different categories of outdoor wear and remains a family-owned company based in Morrisville, Vermont.
The Turtle Fur Neck Gaiter double-layer neck gaiter is the warmest, softest and some say it is the most loved cold weather neck warmer of all time. It’s also simply a damn good looking neck gaiter for when the hunt is over.
Two layers of high-quality fleece trap heat in the pocket formed by its two walls and it’s just about impenetrable as far as cold weather conditions go.
EYE PROTECTION:
Good eye protection, though not the most important item on our cold weather hunting preparedness list today, should not be understated, nor its importance underestimated.
In the inland northwest, winters are commonly very sunny with a lot of snow on the ground. And, if you’re not accustomed to that, you may not know that this combination can induce almost migraine level headaches in easily less than an hour.
Also, protection from the wind and the things that the winter wind can whip up is very important when trying to keep your eyes steady, protected, and free of obstructing tears.
Keep in mind, though, in nature there aren’t very many shiny things that cast a glare except for bodies of water or small puddles. So just be mindful that you’re not casting a glare into the eyes of your unsuspecting prey.
VertX Men's Polarized Sunglasses
VertX Polarized Sunglasses are simply sport sunglasses without extreme price tags. They have an anti-reflective lens to help not give you away to your unassuming prey, but don’t completely count on this. It’s just help the glare and there is no guarantee, depending on the conditions.
VertX Men’s Polarized Sunglasses are a simple solution for most outdoor adventures and combine a decent enough level of comfort and functionality.
Non-slip rubber grips help keep them secure and the rubber earsocks are double injected, so you'll never have to worry about them slipping off of your head and losing them.
A sufficient choice for your hunt and a good choice for your wallet.
FEATURES:
Full coverage
Polarized
Polycarbonate
Scratch-resistant
UV400 lenses
BLUPOND Polarized Sports Sunglasses
BLUPOND Sport Sunglasses are lightweight, polycarbonate, polarized shades for a bargain price. They’re about twice the price as the VertX Men’s Polarized Sunglasses, but perhaps, worth it.
If you are the type that can’t get out of the driveway without losing your shades, then you may want to go and get yourself some cheap sunglasses.
However, if you are the type that can hang on to your specs, BLUPOND Sunglasses make a fine product. And, though they are built to last amidst inevitable drops, scratches, and squishes, they do offer up a solid complementary hard case to help you take good care of them.
FEATURES:
Lightweight
Polycarbonate
Anti-glare
Polarized Copper Tinted Lenses
Scratch Resistant
Complementary Hard Case
UV400
“Death by violence, death by cold, death by starvation, – these are the normal endings of the stately and beautiful creatures of the wilderness. The sentimentalists who prattle about the peaceful life of nature do not realize its utter mercilessness.”
— Theodore Roosevelt
As we say quite often here at Rugged Man, we love old-fashioned grit and tradition and have a deep appreciation for the ruggedness and tenacity that our forefathers exhibited when they set out to immerse themselves in the great unknown.
We also have an admiration for those who, in this modern world, refuse to stray from tradition in tool and attire. Not only do we LOVE this, but feel that it is crucial that the old ways are not lost and tip our hats to you fine folks who are keeping that alive. It takes a special breed to devote your life to this way of living!
Falling short of reenactment and for the purposes of this article, however, we are more interested in the efficient use of time and the efficacy of putting meat in the freezer to ensure that we can feed ourselves, our families, and hopefully our neighbors if we have any.
Advances in cold weather hunting gear keep us warm and in the field longer, when staying longer could mean the difference between a successful or failed hunt. This also allows us to stay focused on hunting and not on how miserable we are and how long we think we should hold out before getting back to shelter.
We’ve tried to supply you with a variety of price options, however, when it comes to good cold weather gear, you can spend good money once and have it a lifetime, or spend money quite a few times in a lifetime because cheaper gear just simply doesn’t last in harsh environments.
We hope that this list will at least give you an idea of how to start thinking about what you need for your cold weather hunts. Experience is the best teacher. Get out there and get it done!
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