Predator success is all about playing the odds with opportunity. Probability says the more time you can spend outside, the more success you’ll find. In sub-freezing temps, however, staying warm enough to make that last stand is easier said than done. Here’s some of the best cold-weather gear to help you hedge your bets against the elements while in the field.
Browning BTU WD Parka
The 3-in-1 BTU WD (Warm and Dry) Parka from Browning is as warm as anything that you’ll find on the market. The dual-layer outer shell is water and wind proof and features fully-taped seams. The hood can be removed, and the cuffs close with hook and loop. The shell has two oversized hand warmer pockets and a large chest pocket, as well as internal pockets for smaller items. The outer shell also provides harness access for use during tree-stand hunts. The water- and wind-resistant liner jacket is filled with 80 grams of PrimaLoft Hi-Loft Silver insulation, and features hand warmer pockets, a left chest zipper pocket, an internal chest pocket and an internal security pocket for important items. Available in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country in sizes ranging from Small to 3XL. MSRP: $299.99; browning.com.
Huntworth Stealth Heavyweight Hunting Glove
Made from a quiet 260-gram performance two-way stretch fleece shell with a Durable Water Repellant finish, the Huntworth Stealth Heavyweight Hunting Glove is available in the company’s new realistic Hidd’n pattern. Warmth is derived from 40 grams of Thinsulate insulation. The glove also features Microban, an antimicrobial scent control feature that is bonded to the fleece lining. The palm features a textured patch to provide a secure grip in wet conditions, and the index finger and thumb—which also sport a soft-grip texture—allow for the manipulation of touch screen electronics. The cuffs tighten via an adjustable wrist belt to retain warmth. Available in Medium, Large and XL. MSRP: $29.99; huntworthgear.com.
LaCrosse Cold Snap Boot
When temperatures drop, it’s your extremities that give out first. Keep your feet warm with the 2,000-gram Thinsulate Ultra insulated Cold Snap boots from LaCrosse. Featuring a removable EVA footbed, nylon shank and a Dry-Core waterproof lining, these boots will keep your toes toasty. The Permafrost outsole is built with a deep, aggressive lug system with a 90-degree-angled heel designed to improve your foothold on ladder rungs. A durable 9-inch full-grain leather and 900 Denier nylon uppers repels briars and abrasives. Available in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country. MSRP: $160; lacrossefootwear.com.
Cabela’s Instinct Super-Warm Down Pant
Insulated with PrimaLoft Silver Down blend with a ratio of 60 percent water-resistant duck down and 40 percent PrimaLoft Ultra-fine blend, the Cabela’s Instinct Super-Warm Down Pant features a waterproof seat and knees and a windproof exterior. Legs unzip for putting on or taking off boots. Stuff sack for storage included. Available in Cabela’s O2 Octane camo pattern. MSRP: $199.99; cabelas.com.
Carhartt Camo Ear Flap Cap
Protecting the head from biting winds is essential to maximize your time in the cold. The fleece-lined Ear Flap Camo Hunting Cap from Carhartt features features a canvas exterior for durability and Fast-Dry technology to wick away moisture. The fleece ear flaps can be folded up along the cap. Available in Realtree Xtra camo. MSRP: $29.99; carhartt.com.
Smartwool Hunt Extra Heavy Crew Socks
Made in the U.S. from a blend of 71 percent Merino wool, 28 percent nylon and one percent Elastane, the Hunt Extra Heavy Crew Socks from Smartwool features a proprietary fit system that braces the angle and arch to provide a secure, comfortable fit. The sock utilizes an extra-heavy cushion to absorb not only impacts, but heat as well, which helps keep you going even in the coldest temperatures. The socks are breathable, and because Smartwool made the cut of these socks slightly taller than most crew-style socks, they’ll also fit better in taller boots. Available in Charcoal grey in medium through extra-large. MSRP: $24.95; smartwool.com.
Scent-Lok AMP Heavyweight Base Layer System (Pant/Shirt)
Arguably the most important piece of gear for a cold-weather-clothing setup, the base layer is responsible for trapping heat next to your body. So what’s your best bet when looking for a solid base-layer system to stay warm? The BaseSlayers AMP Heavyweight Top and Pant from Scentlok is a solid choice, thanks to its carbon alloy technology, carbon Fusix, which offers premier odor control. The garments feature a wicking treatment to control moisture and an additional antimicrobial treatment to further eliminate odor. The top features a ¼-zip design, concealed thumbhole openings and shoulder and arm stretch panels for ease of movement. The pant is built with an elastic waistband, a horizontal fly and an inner-thigh gusset for more mobility. Both items come in black, Mossy Oak Break-Up Country or Realtree Edge. MSRP: $79.99 each; scentlok.com.
Icebreaker Apex Glove Liner
Weighing just over an ounce, the Icebreaker Apex Glove Liner is made from 98 percent Merino wool and 2 percent LYCRA. This fabric combination helps regulate your body temperature, is odor-free by nature, and unlike many wool products, is itch-free thanks to the super-fine fibers from which the glove is made. The LYCRA material not only helps with increased fit to trap warmth against the skin, but also decreases the time it takes for the glove to dry when wet. Available in black with sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large. MSRP: $35; icebreaker.com.
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