In a year when countless hunters have found themselves wanting to make the switch to a hunting apparel company that has the hunter’s best interest in mind, comes some of the latest and greatest developments in killer clothing for hardcore hunters. And if you’re shopping for new clothes to outfit your mid-season rut hunts, here’s three great hunting clothes options you should consider.
ScentLok
I was always skeptical of scent containment clothing in the early days. Regardless of whether or not it worked, most of it was bulky, didn’t fit well, and was far from comfortable. However, ScentLok has changed all that with their latest garments that are the perfect marriage of fit and function.
The ScentLok Helix suit is a great option for nearly 90% of your hunts.
I’ve yet to find anything in the ScentLok product line that I didn’t like, but one garment that stands out among the rest is the Helix. The Helix System revolutionizes fit and function in scent containment clothing. The system features aggressive articulation, an action back design and strategically placed panels that make the Helix a game changer. The Helix jacket and pant are the perfect weight for your mid-season rut hunts. It’s not too heavy, and not too light. The soft shell fabric is incredibly comfortable and deadly quiet. I’m really tough on my hunting pants, so I particularly like the reinforced butt and knees built into these garments. And of course, the ScentLok Carbon Alloy technology obliterates your odor signature, allowing you to encounter critters like never before.
Other features of the Helix include:
- Carbon Alloy technology for odor adsorption
- DWR finish to shed light moisture
- Windproof membrane protects you from the elements
- Wicking treated lining for moisture management
- Deadly quiet polyester interlock outer fabric
- 240g fleece lining for warmth and comfort
- Removable hood with adjusters for a custom fit
- Action back and articulated shoulders provide a free range of motion
- Inset stretch wrist panels keep sleeves secure
- Two waist pockets & one chest pocket for essentials
NOMAD
NOMAD came on the scene in recent years with a really slick line of hunting clothes that feels good and takes function to another level.
The Integrator Jacket is warm, comfortable, and has a great zipper and pocket system to make life easier. There’s a lot of genius built in to the extra features in this product. Little features designed to have a big impact were built right in to these garments. I really like what I’ve seen from these guys so far. They are putting out some of the comfiest garments the deer hunter will ever find.
The NOMAD Integrator 2.0 Windproof Fleece Jacket and pant is one system you really need to check out. It has quickly become a favorite among hunters across the country. And rightfully so. The Integrator System is a 100% windproof shell that was developed to quietly protect the hunter from the elements. It is the perfect weight for hunting the rut, as well as into the late season. Features of the Integrator Jacket include: SilverZ Scent Suppression System, side zips for main entry, secure front pockets for accessory protection/storage, rear zipper port for safety harness integration and a center back zip gusset for shell expansion during late season.
I had the chance to try out the Nomad Dunn Primaloft vest on a recent cool morning coyote hunt.
This jacket and pant paired with the NOMAD Dunn Primaloft vest will pretty much carry you through the worst of weather in your mid to late season hunts. The vest is the perfect option to wear over a base layer to knock off the chill on a cool November afternoon, or can be worn underneath a heavier jacket as mentioned above.
Browning Hell’s Canyon
I was introduced to Browning’s Hell’s Canyon garments earlier this year while hunting elk in New Mexico. I guess I just always thought Browning made guns – nothing more. So when I had the chance to check out the Hell’s Canyon gear, I was more than impressed by what I saw.
The clothing line from Hell’s Canyon is tough and rugged, yet very comfortable.
The clothing from Hell’s Canyon has a great fit and is super comfortable to wear, whether sitting in a treestand, or hiking in the backcountry.
The Hell’s Canyon Softshell Jacket is said to be the backbone of the product line. The 3-Layer soft shell fabric can handle tough country, yet is plenty quiet for your up-close encounters while bowhunting. The jacket includes the Harness Access System. Both the jacket and matching pants feature revolutionary ADDvanced Scent Control to help you get closer to the critters you pursue. The mid-weight shell on this system includes a windproof fabric and is highly water-resistant and breathable. Fit features include: stretch nylon adjustable cuffs with hook and loop closures to eliminate drafts and prevent water entry. Underarm pit-zips help with ventilation to and release perspiration. Sleeves are lined for easy on/off and additional freedom of motion.
Other features of the Hell’s Canyon Soft Shell system include:
- Two mesh-lined handwarmer pockets with zipper closures.
- External pocket zippers have garages to prevent water entry.
- Drop-back bottom hem with drawcord seals in warm air and prevents drafts.
- Articulated patterning provides comfort and additional freedom of movement.
- Corded zipper-pulls reduce noise and are easy to grab even with gloves on.
- Athletic Cut for superior fit.
- License tab on the back for displaying your license (when required in your hunting area).
