Trekking deep woods, open plains and high mountains for freezer-filling protein requires gear that will go to the brink along with you. Here’s a look at some of the most innovative new products for him and her.
Danner Pronghorn 8″ 800G Boots
The fifth generation of this iconic boot, Danner’s latest Pronghorn features a protective full-grain leather upper, a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex liner, 800 grams of PrimaLoft insulation and Mossy Oak Break-Up Country accents. Built on an upgraded platform to increase fit, durability and comfort. MSRP: $250; danner.com.
Browning Hells Canyon Speed Clothing
Clad in the newest A-TACS TD-X camo pattern, the Hellfire-FM Insulated Gore Windstopper Jacket and Pant are soft, quiet, windproof, water resistant, breathable and lined with a warm and comfortable fleece interior. Both garments are articulated for ease of movement and sport a “hero” fit that won’t bunch or bind. MSRP: $249.99-$299.99; browning.com.
ALPS Hybrid X-Pack
Ideal for day excursions, the Hybrid X (left) consists of an internal frame meat hauler with a detachable 2,750-cubic-inch top-load pack. Used alone, the aluminum frame, with its built-in meat shelf and wing-style pockets, is more than enough for shorter hunts. Includes a hydration-bladder pocket, rifle or bow pocket and a rain cover. MSRP: $299.99; alpsoutdoorz.com.
Badlands Vario Modular Hunting Pack
Starting with the large or medium meat-hauling frame, attach any one of four packs (sold separately), varying in size, to suit your needs. From the small Day Pack with its own back straps, to the extra large Vario 65, with 6,500 cubic inches of storage space, with this system, there’s not a hunt in the world you won’t be prepared for. MSRP: $349.99-$499.99; badlandspacks.com.
Sitka Women’s Mountain Jacket and Ascent Pant
The Mountain Jacket is lightweight, waterproof, windproof and quiet. Wear it alone or as a top layer, and pack it away when things heat up. Pair it with the durable and ultra-breathable Ascent Pant with mesh pockets, made from a four-way stretch polyester, for warm-weather hunts. MSRP: $289 Jacket, $189 Pant; sitkagear.com.
Kenetrek Women’s Mountain Extreme 1000 Boots
These 8-inch mountain climbers feature a full-grain leather upper, reinforced stitching, swiveling hardware to prevent breakage and a durable rubber sole guard. Waterproof, breathable and sporting 1,000-gram Thinsulate insulation, these boots are made for serious late-season hunts. MSRP: $465; kenetrek.com.
