5 Qualities to Look for in Rain Gear

When it comes to choosing gear for your next big hunt, two of the most important items (assuming you have your weapon dialed in) are your rain gear and your boots. These things can make your hunt comfortable and enjoyable in any conditions. Conversely, they can leave you cold, wet or in pain.

During early archery seasons, afternoon rainstorms are a regular occurrence in the mountains and along the plains. Later in the fall, rain can turn to sleet and snow. These conditions can make for great hunting, assuming you are able to stay in the field for as long as it takes. Staying dry can make or break your hunt.

For that reason, investing in quality rain gear is essential. Get the best your budget allows. Here are a few key features to look for in your rain gear.

1. Breathability

Breathability is essential. During steep climbs or periods of high exertion, condensation will build up inside a rain shell. A breathable membrane like Gore-Tex allows water vapor to escape, while remaining waterproof and windproof. Without breathability, your insulating layers or base layers will become wet, defeating the purpose of rain gear in the first place.

We recommend looking for what’s called a 3-layer rain shell. Meaning, a Gore-Tex membrane sandwiched between an outer face fabric and an inside backer. A 3-layer shell provides more durability and more protection during periods of extended rain or snow.

2. Weight

Those who can stay in the field through bad weather will often find success.
Photo credit: Winterhawk Outfitters

This is true anywhere, but especially important on mountain hunts where the weather can change rapidly. If your rain jacket and pants are heavy, you may be tempted to leave them at camp instead of in your backpack. That could prove to be a mistake. If you get soaked and the weather turns windy and cold, hyperthermia is a real possibility. Be sure to compare weights on any rain gear that you consider.

3. Full-Leg and Pit Zips

These ventilating features are important for strenuous physical activity in bad weather. Pit zips provide airflow and additional breathability. In addition to acting as vents, full-length leg zippers make it easy to change in and out of your rain pants quickly without removing your hunting boots.

4. Movement and Comfort

Quality rain gear should be cut to fit well, allowing free movement without extra bulky fabric. Many high quality rain fabrics have a little stretch, which makes them even more comfortable to wear. If possible, try on a couple of different sizes before you decide to make a purchase. Before spending the money on great rain gear, be certain it is comfortable and fits you well.

5. Toughness

If you wear your rain gear enough, there’s a chance you’ll eventually put its durability to the test. There is often a balance between toughness and weight. But when moving through brush, climbing through blowdowns or stalking on your hands and knees, your rain gear needs to be reasonably tough. This is another critical area where you get what you pay for. High quality rain gear will offer the best balance of both weight and durability. The more you sacrifice on price, the more you’ll lose in terms of one or the other.

When it comes to toughness, you also need to consider the conditions in which you’ll be hunting. In places like New Mexico or Colorado, you’re rain gear is likely to spend as much time in your pack as on your back. In that circumstance, go for an ultra-light option and sacrifice some durability. However, if you plan to hunt a damp location like Alaska where you’ll be busting through brush and putting your rain gear through serious abuse, perhaps find an option that’s a little heavier-duty, even if it comes at the expense of more weight.

If you’ve ever been on a hunt through several straight days of rain or bad weather, you know the value of great rain gear. Don’t get caught thinking about how cold, wet and miserable you are. Stay dry and keep hunting hard!