The Best Hunting Apparel of 2024
This article originally appeared on Outside
Hunting apparel has come a long way since just a few brands were running the show. This year, we prioritized diversity in our final selection. Below, you'll find the best mix of well-known hunting names, newcomers, and a few non-traditional brands looking to break into a new audience.
The Winners at a Glance
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Aku Riserva High Therm200 GTX
Appalachian Gear Company 8020 Sun Hoodie
Ditale Outdoors Sofia Adventure Pants
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie
Injinji Boot Original Weight OTC socks
Kuiu Axis Thermal Hybrid Hooded Jacket
Kuiu Pro Brush Pants
LaCrosse Alpha Agility Select Waders
Sitka Ambient Jacket
Sitka Equinox Turkey Vest
Under Armour Ridge Reaper Infil Windstopper HD Pants
The Reviews: The Best Hunting Apparel of 2024
Aku Riserva High Therm200 GTX boots ($400)
Weight: 29 oz per boot (men's)
Size: 7-13 (men's)
Pros:
Comfortable break-in
No blisters
Provides stability when hunting with pack
Grippy, aggressive tread
Good value
Cons:
Outside leather doesn't dry quickly
Laces are about 3-5 inches too short
These mountain boots are well-made, comfortable, and well worth the $400 price tag. Although a bit stiff out of the box, tester Charlie Ebbers broke them in by walking through slushy snow in Alaska before he went into the backcountry. The more he walked, the more the boots molded to his feet thanks to the 200g Gore-Tex liner. So far, Ebbers has walked about 80 miles wearing the Riserva with no blisters and complaints. The membrane didn’t separate from the hull of the boot, which can often happen with cheaper boots. The Riserva's Vibram tread is aggressive because of the many lugs, allowing Ebbers to traverse slick ice without slipping. Ebbers tested these boots carrying 25- and 42-pound packs, and even when he was weighed down, the Riserva kept him stable. He plans to exclusively hunt in these boots when the weather turns cold in Alaska this fall.
Bottom line: The AKU Riserva High 200 GTX boots would be ideal for a sheep, goat, elk, deer or bear hunting in the mountains.
Appalachian Gear Company 8020 Sun Hoodie ($112)
Weight: 7-11 oz (men's) / 5-9 oz (women's)
Size: S-XXL (men's) / XS-XL (women's)
Pros:
Antimicrobial and odor resistant
Lightweight
Moisture wicking
Ideal for cold and mild weather
Holds up well to machine and hand-washing
Cons:
Alpaca material is scratchy when new, but does improve with wear.
The natural material smells funky when wet, but the odor disappears when dry
Line dry only, as the material can shrink in the dryer
Low-maintenance and quality outdoor clothing is our jam, and the 8020 Sun Hoodie offers both. This long sleeve shirt is made of 80 percent alpaca and 20 percent Tencel, a breathable, antimicrobial and odor-controlling natural blend that doesn't require constant washing. We liked it for pheasant and quail hunting in the fall and winter because the shirt never left us clammy after we worked up a sweat. And it was equally comfortable to wear while sitting in a boat during spring fishing, carrying us through chilly, early mornings as a base layer and worn by itself during the warm, sun-drenched afternoons. When hung inside out after being worn, the shirt really does shed odor, even after two weeks of wear without washing (be warned: it smells a little strange when it's wet, but the odor goes away once it dries).
Bottom line: Hunters who backpack, camp and travel often will appreciate the 8020 Sun Hoodie's low maintenance and odor resistance.
Ditale Outdoors Sofia Adventure Pants ($179)
Weight: 24.7 oz (women's medium)
Size: XXS-3X/regular/curvy (women's)
Pros:
Adjustable inseam
Deep, roomy pockets
Water resistant
Stretchy
Offered in regular and curvy sizes
Cons:
Size chart on Ditale Outdoors is inaccurate, runs large
Thoughtfully constructed, the Sofia Adventure pants offer an adjustable inseam of 29-34 inches secured by snaps at the cuffs, front pockets that actually fit our hands, and two roomy cargo pockets on each leg that could fit a phone, wallet, and more. Tester Angie Kokes was especially impressed with the adjustable inseam because she's 5'10" and it's difficult to find pants that fit her. Metal zippers are made to last, and the extra wide, elastic waistband offers not only comfort, but is also compatible with a tactical belt or suspenders (not included) because no ties or buckles get in the way. The pants are water resistant due to DWR treatment, and made of 92 percent polyester and 8 percent spandex. Thanks to the gusseted crotch and articulated knee darts, the Sofia allows full mobility when hunting. Although the pants cater to a wide range of body types, offering regular and curvy options, Kokes warned that the company's sizing chart needs to be updated for accuracy--the Sofia runs quite large. "If I could get them to fit, I'd pay $300 for these pants," she said.
Bottom line: The Sofia Adventure Pants would be ideal for any late spring to early fall hunting.
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie ($285)
Weight: 11.37 oz (men’s medium) / 9.87 oz (women’s medium)
Size: S-XXL (men's) / XS-XL (women's)
Pros:
Lightweight and packable
Non-bulky merino wool insulation
Fits well underneath a shell jacket or hunting vest
Scuba hood provides protection from the cold
Wind and water resistant face material
Moisture wicking
Cons:
Color offerings are limited for hunting
This versatile mid-layer kept us comfortable through almost any situation: early-season quail hunts, late-season pheasant hunting in the teens, walking the dog, sitting on an airplane, and socializing around a campfire. Because it's low-profile, it doesn't feel cumbersome when mounting a shotgun. The 80-gram insulating merino wool fill is warm enough that it can be worn alone, but it isn't bulky--it fits seamlessly underneath a shooting vest. One of our favorite features is the Wool Aire's scuba hood, which stays put during periods of high winds and provides full protection around the head, neck, and chin. Despite being a mid-layer, the jacket does an adequate job of keeping out wind and low to moderate amounts of dew and rain thanks to the natural merino wool insulation and 100 percent nylon face fabric. It is also breathable, which was useful while we were on the move and temperatures started to rise. Bonus: it fits into its own chest pocket.
Bottom line: Although not ideal for archery hunters because the face material isn't quiet enough, the Wool Aire is an ideal layer for upland and even rifle hunters in the spring, fall and early winter.
Injinji Boot Original Weight OTC socks ($18)
Weight: 3.2 oz (medium)
Size: S-L (unisex)
Pros:
Breathable and cool in hot weather
Prevents blisters
Comfortable
Cons:
Not warm enough for cold weather
Let's be honest--toe socks look weird. But we decided to give these Injinji boot socks a chance, and were thoroughly impressed. Angie Kokes wore them with her Muck Boots while hiking over miles of soft, muddy ground, fully expecting her feet to get torn up, but they didn't. The socks kept her feet cool and dry, despite testing them in warmer weather. Although normally a fan of merino wool, Kokes was surprised by the comfort and moisture-wicking capabilities that the Injinji socks offered--they're made with a blend of 78 percent polyester, 18 percent nylon, and 4 percent Lycra. Also, the socks' toe separation wasn't noticeable, yet provided protection against friction and hot spots.
Bottom line: The Injinji Boot Original Weight OTC Socks are best worn during fast-paced, spot-and-stalk hunting situations.--they won't keep you warm when sitting in a tree stand in the fall or winter.
Kuiu Axis Thermal Hybrid Hooded Jacket ($349)
Weight: 25 oz (men's)
Size: S-3XL (men's)
Pros:
Can replace rain gear
Snug but stretchy
Warm, low-bulk insulation
Cons:
Sticky pit ventilation zippers
When you're in the field for long periods of time, comfort becomes paramount. The Axis Thermal does the job, providing both lightweight and protective warmth thanks to the synthetic insulation that mimics the shape and properties of goose down. Tester Kevin Paul wore it while hunting deer and waterfowl in the single digits through the upper 40s, and he stayed comfortable at both ends of the temperature range. The jacket's snug fit hugs the body in a cozy way, yet provides plenty of stretch and enough range of motion for all hunting tasks. Other notable features include underarm zip venting, body-mapped insulation in the core and bicep areas, and a wind- and water-resistant membrane. Although the jacket wouldn't hold up to a full day of torrential downpour, it is protective enough to replace rain gear under normal circumstances. Snow shed off excellently during one test--even when the chest area showed some signs of wetting out, it maintained its warmth.
Bottom line: The Axis Thermal would be best suited to hunts requiring constant thermal management, likelong hikes followed by static periods of glassing.
Kuiu Pro Brush Pants ($199)
Weight: 19.6 oz (men's)
Size: 30-42/reg/short/tall (men's)
Pros:
Protective, thorn-proof material
Comfortable and stretchy
Water repellent
Odor resistant
Comfortable in warm weather
Cons:
Back pocket openings are too narrow
Hunters who are looking for the durability of canvas, yet the comfort and coolness of athletic pants, won't be disappointed by Kuiu's Pro Brush Pants. Bust through brush, briar and thorn-choked terrains without worrying about scraping your limbs. "Normally, I find the best way to get durability in pants is to find fabric that is close to canvas and just deal with the heat," said tester Kevin Paul. "The Pro Brush Pants are the first pair I have worn and felt like I could bust by locust trees or cross barbed wire fences without destroying my clothes." Paul appreciated the thigh venting, which allowed heat dumping on hot days. The articulated knees, gusseted crotch, and four-way stretch polyester made Paul feel like he was wearing sweatpants. In addition to durability, the pants are also water repellent, thanks to a DWR finish, and odor resistant--a tester rotated them with two other pants during a sweaty two-week trip in Europe, and it still didn't stink by the end of it. Cargo and side pockets provided easy access to personal items like a cell-phone or a wallet, although the back pockets were more difficult to get into because the pants are so form-fitting. Note: the mesh liner on the inside of the pockets allowes sweat to preach through, so we don't suggest storing a hunting permit there.
Bottom Line: The Pro Brush Pants are ideal for warm, early season and active hunts. The material is on the thinner side, so the pants won't provide much warmth.
LaCrosse Alpha Agility Select Waders ($690)
Weight: 9 lbs. (men's size 10)
Size: 7-15 (men's)
Pros:
Durable and leakproof
Breathable nylon shell
Removable insulating liner for versatility
Easy to move in
Cons:
3-season
Calling all waterfowl hunters who have suffered years of uncomfortable, cumbersome waders. Tester Jeff Kurrus hunted in these through an entire season on the famed Platte River of central Nebraska, and was won over by the waders' comfort, versatility, and durability. Pockets, including a waterproof sleeve for his phone, are strategically placed on the chest, and made grabbing essentials easy--two of them are big enough to hold waterfowl calls, ear protection, and other small items. There are also shotgun shell holders in the chest area. A removable 120-gram quilted liner offers flexibility between September teal season and December geese. A slightly roomier fit for layering and the breathable nylon shell topped it off. Kurrus often ran into brambles and barbed wire while chasing mallards in the Rainwater Basin, and the Alpha Agility has held up to every snag. Jeff Kurrus said: "I know myself, and I know other hunters like me: If there is a pile of barbed wire between me and a flock of geese, I'll be careful when I walk through, but I don't want to be hindered by my gear. I'd rather pay extra money for the Alpha Agility over a typical $300-$400 pair of waders I'd have to coddle." Choose the size you wear based on your sneaker size. These waders run slightly large, which allow room for thicker socks.
Bottom line: These Alpha Agility waders are comfortable within the 30 to 60-degree range.
Sitka Ambient Jacket ($299)
Weight: 18 oz (men's)
Size: M-XXXL (men's)
Pros:
Lightweight and low-bulk, yet warm
Versatile
Stretchy
Breathable
Quiet face material
Cons:
No hood
We love the Ambient's versatility, whether worn as part of a cold-weather ensemble during Nebraska's most frigid days hunting geese, as an outer layer for fall fishing or quail hunting, or even to work and social functions--the pattern and cut is unexpectedly elegant. Constructed of 20D ripstop nylon shell and 150 grams of post-consumer recycled PrimaLoft active insulation, the Ambient delivers in breathability, stretch, low-bulk warmth, and water-shedding capability, all while being supple and pleasant to wear. Plus, it's quiet. Tester Jeff Kurrus wore the Ambient during archery deer season in Nebraska and did not once spook deer.
Bottom line: The Ambient would be most applicable for bow hunters because it's so quiet. It would also be ideal for early dove and teal seasons, when mornings feel crisp, or worn as a mid-layer during the dead of winter. If active, the Ambient is comfortable between the 20s and 50s. When sitting in the deer stand, it's comfortable down into the 30s with a base layer.
Sitka Equinox Turkey Vest ($249)
Weight: 44.5 oz (unisex)
Size: One size (unisex)
Pros:
Ergonomic storage system
Easy seat deployment
Adjustability among hunters of different torso sizes
Form fitting and comfortable to wear when covering ground
Cons:
Price
The Equinox was created for the light-and-fast turkey hunter--its storage system isample, yet minimalistic and efficient. Magnet closures on the front pockets allow for quick, quiet access to a variety of turkey calls and equipment, whereas larger compartments are assembled like a daypack with large openings that are hydration-bladder compatible. Other notable features include an outside pocket for rain gear, two sewn-in blaze orange flags to pull out for visibility and safety, and straps that allow for adjustability among hunters of different torso sizes. Also, the removable, dual-density foam drop-down seat is comfortable and easy to deploy and cinch back up. In fact, it's so cozy that tester Jeff Kurrussaid the Equinox felt like an extension of his body during Nebraska's fall and spring turkey seasons.
Bottom line: Spring and fall turkey hunters will love this vest, that is, if they're willing to cough up the dough for a piece of equipment that is highly specialized.
Under Armour Ridge Reaper Infil Windstopper HD Pants ($200)
Weight: 22.4 oz (men's)
Size: 30-44 waist/30-36 inseam (men's)
Pros:
Warm and protective in cold weather
Quiet
Fits taller hunters
Good for layering
Flexible
Ample pockets
Cons:
Wind resistance could be improved
Elastic waistband feels too thick
The Ridge Reaper offers an impressive balance of fit, warmth, and moisture management. Tester Charlie Ebbers wore the pants during a winter caribou hunt in the Alaska Range and an overnight burbot fishing trip in the Chugach Mountains. During the caribou hunt, Ebbers snowmobiled and trudged on foot through deep snow, in 0-degree weather, and the Ridge Reaper kept him warm and protected thanks to the three-layer bonded fabric that has a water-shedding exterior and soft interior. The pants fit well on Ebbers' tall frame, and the durable, smooth exterior and warm, brushed interior of 100 percent polyester felt so comfortable and flexible that he'd forget he was wearing them. "The flexibility and weight of the fabric makes the pants feel like you can glide up a ridgeline or through a swamp unencumbered," Ebbers said. Articulated knees allowed freedom of movement, and the lightweight knee pads provided comfort while he kneeled on rough terrain. Plus, heavy-duty, zip cargo pockets provided ample storage space without creating hot spots on his legs. The Ridge Reaper is thin enough to be worn in conjunction with a base layer and/or coveralls. "Under Armour delivered pants that I will trust in the backcountry of Alaska for at least one full hunting year (4 hunting seasons)," said Ebbers.
Bottom line: The Ridge Reaper would work well for a variety of hunting and outdoor situations in moderate to cold weather.
How to Buy
Hunting gear is an investment, but if you're a beginner looking to get into it, don't rush out and buy the most expensive and technical gear possible. While top-of-the-line hunting gear certainly helps with comfort, it won't make game animals appear nor improve your shooting. Big-box stores such as Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops generally offer decent mid-tier products. In some parts of the country, even Walmart carries cheap hunting gear. If you're already a backpacker or hiker, wear the clothing you already own--lightweight and moisture-wicking are features that are also desirable in hunting. Choose pieces in muted, natural colors, and when hunting in a ground blind, the color black is actually the best color to wear, as it will help you blend in with the dark interior. Unless you're hunting in open country and doing a lot of spotting and stalking, expensive camouflage is not required--staying comfortable and warm is more important. For guided hunts, reach out to your guide with any questions about layering and insulation. Lastly, don't forget to check state regulations for hunter orange requirements.
How We Test
Number of testers: 8
Number of products tested: 90
Number of miles/vertical feet: 900 miles
Our eight testers had their work cut out for them as this year with the task of putting over 90 pieces of hunting apparel and accessories through their paces. Testers were between their early 30s to late 40s, each claiming at least 12 years of hunting experience (one especially well-seasoned tester has 45). The majority of testers would consider themselves "generalists," having pursued big, upland, waterfowl and small game on a regular basis. We took these products through a variety of terrain, from the rugged Chugach Mountains of Alaska to the forested plains of the Nebraska National Forest to the waterfowl-rich areas of the Central Flyway. We rated apparel based on comfort, durability, performance, warmth, and price.
Meet Our Lead Testers
Jenny Nguyen-Wheatley grew up camping and backpacking in Southern California. She began hunting in her early 20s and currently resides in Nebraska as an outdoor writer, photographer and wild game cook.
Charlie Ebbers lives and hunts in the Copper River Basin of Alaska. He’s a generalist and was charged by three grizzlies in 2022. He has more than 20 years of hunting experience.
Angie Kokes shot her first shotgun at 3 years old and grew up hunting with her dad to pursue upland birds. After teaching herself how to rifle and archery hunt for deer, Kokes learned how to spear hunt. To date, she has taken 13 big game animals between the U.S. and Africa with her spear.
Jeff Kurrus is an author and photographer who has hunted and fished more than 40 years, from Louisiana to Minnesota and all points in between. Each year, he spends more than 150 days in the field.
Kevin Paul is an industrial service electrician in Nebraska who spends most of his free time hiking, hunting or pursuing some form of shooting sports. Kevin is a generalist, self-taught hunter who has a soft spot for upland birds and small game.
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