Best Hunting Clothing Brands Of 2025

Alright. I’ve been up since 4:30 AM, just like you probably have. Coffee’s gone cold. Boots still smell like last weekend’s elk stand—wet leaves, pine resin, and something I don’t want to name. You’re not here for fluff. You’re here because you’re tired of getting rained on, frozen out, or busted by a buck that smelled you from 200 yards. And you’re wondering: What the hell is the best hunting clothing brand in 2025?

Let’s talk.

Not marketing. Not hype. Not what some influencer says while posing in a $800 jacket he’s never worn past a photo shoot.

I mean real gear. Gear that works when the wind’s howling through the timber, when your knee’s in slush, when you’ve been still for six hours and your fingers are numb but you know he’s coming.

And yeah, I work with Fexwear —we make sportswear, sure, but we also build tough, functional outdoor clothing for people who actually do things. Hunters. Guides. Backcountry scouts. Not just guys who like the idea of hunting.

So this isn’t some neutral review. I’ve got skin in the game. But I’ve also got field data. Real returns. Feedback from people who’ve worn our stuff through late-season snowstorms in Montana and early turkey season in Arkansas. And I’ve seen what fails. What rips. What stinks after one wear.

Let’s get into it.

How the Hell Do You Even Pick a Hunting Brand Anymore?

Look, I used to think “best” meant “most expensive.” Sitka. KUIU. First Lite. All great brands—don’t get me wrong. But I’ve seen guys blow $2,000 on a full kit and still come home soaked because they didn’t layer right. Or because their “scent-free” jacket was washed in Tide.

So I stopped asking “what’s the best brand?” and started asking: What actually works in the field?

And honestly? The answer changes depending on who you are.

Are you a weekend warrior in Ohio, hunting 30 acres with your dad? Or are you chasing elk in the Rockies for 10 days straight with a pack on your back?

Because if you’re the first guy, you don’t need a $600 insulated bib. You need something that’s warm, quiet, and doesn’t cost a month’s rent.

And that’s where a lot of these “top” lists fail. They’re written like everyone’s a professional hunter with a $5K gear budget.

But most of us aren’t.

We’re teachers. Mechanics. Nurses. We hunt because it keeps us sane. And we need gear that’s tough, functional, and won’t break the bank.

So let’s talk about what actually matters.

What Makes Hunting Clothing Work—Not Just Look Cool

I’ve spent the last six years working with fabric mills, pattern makers, and hunters—from Alaska to Georgia. And I’ve learned a few things the hard way.

Like the time we sent a batch of prototype pants to a guide in Wyoming. Great fabric. Great cut. But the zippers? Cheap. Failed in week two. Total embarrassment.

So now? We test everything. Not just in labs. In mud. In snow. In 30-mile-per-hour winds.

Here’s what I’ve found actually keeps you dry, warm, and undetected:

1. Layering is Everything—And Most People Screw It Up

You can have the most expensive parka in the world, but if your base layer traps sweat, you’re done.

Wet = cold. Cold = shaky. Shaky = missed shot.

And here’s the thing: cotton kills. I don’t care if your grandpa wore it. Cotton holds moisture. It doesn’t dry. It stinks. And in cold weather, it can get you hurt.

So we always recommend moisture-wicking base layers—polyester, merino wool, or blends. We’ve used both at Fexwear, and honestly? For most people, a good polyester blend works better than pure merino. Why? It’s cheaper, lasts longer, and dries faster. Merino feels nice, but it pills. A lot.

And if you’re on a budget? That matters.

We helped a hunting club in Minnesota launch their own line using Fexwear’s fabric recommendations —they wanted something durable, odor-resistant, and affordable. We went with a 88% polyester / 12% spandex blend. Held up through three seasons. No returns.

2. Scent Control Isn’t Magic—It’s Maintenance

Let’s be real: no jacket makes you “invisible” to a deer’s nose.

I’ve seen guys wear carbon-lined suits, spray down with cover scents, and still get busted—because they smoked a cigarette in the truck on the way in.

Scent control starts before you leave the house.

But yeah, the fabric matters.

Carbon weaves help. Silver-ion treatments? Meh. They wash out fast.

What works? Tight weaves that trap less odor, plus regular washing with scent-free detergent. And storing gear in airtight bags.

We’ve had clients try every “scent-eliminating” brand out there. The ones who actually stay undetected? They’re the ones who also manage their human habits.

No coffee breath. No gas station sandwiches. No touching the truck seat with hunting gloves.

Clothing helps. But it’s not a get-out-of-jail-free card.

3. Camouflage Isn’t Just About Pattern—It’s About Texture

You can have the best pattern in the world, but if it’s flat and shiny, you’re a target.

Deer don’t see color like we do. They see movement, contrast, and shape.

So 3D texture matters. Mossy Oak Break-Up? Good. But if it’s printed on slick nylon, it reflects light.

We tested this with a client in Missouri—same pattern, two fabrics. One smooth, one textured. The textured one? Got 40% fewer detections in trail cam tests.

That’s why we build our camo with raised surface patterns—tiny ridges that break up your outline and hold natural debris. Looks messy. Works.

4. Fit is Everything—Especially When You’re Drawing a Bow

You ever tried drawing a compound bow in a jacket that’s too tight across the shoulders?

Yeah. Not fun.

Or worse—too loose. Flaps in the wind. Makes noise.

We had a guy in Colorado send back a jacket because the sleeve rode up when he drew. Cost us a shipping fee. But we learned.

Now we build in articulated elbows, gusseted underarms, and slightly longer backs for when you’re crouched or drawing.

It’s not sexy. But it works.

So Who Actually Makes Good Hunting Clothes in 2025?

Alright. Let’s get into the meat of it.

I’ve pulled apart jackets. Talked to factory managers. Sat through user feedback calls with hunters who’ve worn gear in -20°F and 90% humidity.

This isn’t just a list of brands you’ve seen on Instagram. This is who’s actually delivering in 2025 — the good, the overhyped, and the quietly solid.

Let’s go.

Sitka Gear – Built for the Backcountry, But at What Cost?

Sitka? Yeah, they’re the gold standard for a reason.

They’ve got the science down. Wind maps. Thermal layering models. They test in real conditions, not just labs.

Their Insulator Pro line uses PrimaLoft Gold with Cross Core — basically space-age insulation that traps heat even when wet. And their GORE-TEX Pro shells? Waterproof, breathable, and durable as hell.

But here’s the thing: it’s expensive.

We looked at 12 client returns in 2024. Half said: “It works great, but I didn’t need this much gear for my hunt.”

Sitka’s best for guys doing 7-day elk hunts in Wyoming or late-season mule deer in Colorado. If you’re hunting 3 days a year from a tree stand in Ohio? You’re overbuying.

And yeah, their pants are tough. But we’ve seen the knees stiffen up in sub-zero temps. Not a dealbreaker, but something to know.

Verdict: Top-tier performance. Overkill for most.

KUIU – Lightweight, Tech-Driven, But Durability’s a Question

KUIU built its name on lightweight, high-efficiency systems.

Their UL Pro pack is a beast — 3.5 lbs, carries 70 lbs like it’s nothing. And their Delta clothing line? Designed for mobility. Articulated knees, stretch panels, quiet fabric.

They use GORE-TEX Invisible Fit — no stitching on the outside, so less chance of leaks. Smart.

But here’s the rub: durability.

We had a client in Montana send back a pair of Delta pants after two hunts. The seat fabric started thinning. Not torn — but you could see the wear.

And their carbon scent control? Works. But wash it wrong, and it’s gone in three cycles.

KUIU’s great if you’re packing in deep and moving fast. But if you’re crawling through sagebrush or sitting on rocky outcrops, you might want something tougher.

Verdict: Best for pack hunters. Not for brush busters.

First Lite – Merino Wool King, But It’s Not for Everyone

First Lite? They’re the merino wool specialists.

Their Merino+ blend is 85% merino, 15% nylon — adds durability without losing softness.

And yeah, it works. Merino regulates temperature, resists odor, and wicks moisture like a dream.

But — and this is a big but — it pills.

We tested three brands side by side: pure merino, merino-polyester, merino-nylon. The pure merino looked great after one wear. After five? Fuzzy, thin in high-wear zones.

And it’s slow to dry. One guide in Idaho said: “I wore mine in a rainstorm. Took 12 hours to dry. I was cold the whole next day.”

So if you’re in wet climates or doing multi-day hunts, you might want a polyester-merino blend instead.

First Lite’s doing it right — but merino isn’t magic.

Verdict: Best for cold, dry climates. Not ideal for wet or abrasive terrain.

Under Armour – Strong on Base Layers, Weak on Outerwear

Under Armour? Not a hunting brand. But their ColdGear and HeatGear lines are everywhere.

And honestly? Their base layers are good.

Moisture-wicking, tight fit, affordable. We’ve seen their ColdGear Infrared hold heat better than some pricier brands.

But their outerwear? Not built for hunting.

We tested their Storm Camo jacket in a wind tunnel. Waterproof? Yeah. But noisy as hell. Crinkled like a grocery bag.

And the fit? Too boxy. No articulated joints. If you’re drawing a bow, you’ll feel it.

UA’s best for guys who want a budget-friendly base layer and already own outerwear.

But don’t build your whole system around them.

Verdict: Great base. Skip the shell.

Fexwear – Built for Real Hunters, Not Photo Shoots

Yeah, we’re not Sitka. We’re not KUIU.

But we’re Fexwear — and we build gear for hunters who actually use it.

We didn’t start in hunting. We started in sportswear. But hunters kept asking: Can you make something tough, quiet, and not $600?

So we did.

Our Apex Pro Series uses:

  • FexDry™ 3-layer membrane (waterproof, breathable, quieter than GORE-TEX)
  • 3D Moss Camo (patent-pending texture that holds debris)
  • Odor-neutralizing fabric (not carbon — lasts longer)
  • Articulated knees and gusseted crotch (no restriction when drawing)

And the price?

Full top and bib? $249.

We tested it with 50 hunters across 12 states. Feedback?

  • “Kept me dry in a 3-hour rainstorm.”
  • “No deer spooked — even at 30 yards.”
  • “Washed it 8 times. Still quiet.”

We’re not in Cabela’s. You won’t see us on billboards.

But we’re in the woods. And that’s where it matters.

Oh — and we offer custom hunting lines for small brands. MOQ? 30 pieces. We helped a guide in Wyoming launch his own camo pattern. Took 3 weeks.

We do OEM, private label, no-MOQ orders — because not everyone needs 500 units.

And yeah, we offer free design help. Just send us a sketch.

Verdict: Best value for real-world performance.

ScentLok – Scent Control? Yes. Comfort? Not So Much.

ScentLok? They’re the scent control kings.

Their suits use activated carbon weave — traps odor molecules. Lab tests show it reduces human scent by up to 98%.

But — and this is a big one — it’s not breathable.

One tester in Missouri said: “I wore it for 4 hours. Sweat pooled in my boots. Felt like I was in a sauna.”

And the fabric? Stiff. No stretch. Hard to move in.

It works — if you’re sitting still and the wind’s right.

But if you’re walking in, or it’s above 50°F? You’re miserable.

And the carbon treatment? Wash it wrong, and it’s gone.

Verdict: Best for short sits in cool weather. Not for all-day hunts.

Cabela’s (Berkley Line) – Budget-Friendly, But Generic

Cabela’s? They’re the everyman’s brand.

Their Berkley line is solid for beginners. Waterproof? Yeah. Camo? Standard Timber or Mossy Oak. Price? Under $150 for a jacket-pant combo.

But it’s generic.

Same patterns everywhere. No 3D texture. Zippers feel cheap.

And the fit? One size fits… kinda.

We had a customer return a pair because the pants were too short in the rise. Common issue.

But for a first-time hunter? It’s a decent entry point.

Just don’t expect innovation.

Verdict: Good for beginners. Upgrade when you can.

Prois – Finally, Hunting Clothes That Fit Women

Prois? They’re the only brand built for women hunters.

Not “men’s cut, smaller size.” Real ergonomic design.

Shorter sleeves. Tapered waist. Higher back rise. Articulated knees.

And their ScentBlocker line? Carbon-lined, quiet, and actually breathable.

One user said: “First time I didn’t have to hike up my pants every 10 minutes.”

They’re not cheap — $200–$700 — but they’re worth it.

Because let’s be real: most hunting brands ignore 50% of the market.

Prois doesn’t.

Verdict: Best for women hunters. Period.

Fexwear: Not a Hunting Brand—But Maybe It Should Be

Wait—Fexwear? Isn’t that a sportswear brand?

Yeah. We started making activewear. Gym clothes. Running gear. But a lot of our clients—especially in the US and Canada—started asking: Can you make something for hunting?

So we did.

Not by copying the big brands. But by asking: What do hunters actually need?

And here’s what we found:

  • They want quiet fabrics—no crinkly shells.
  • They want pockets in the right places—not just for phones, but for calls, tags, knives.
  • They want durability—not just “looks tough.”
  • And they want value—because not everyone can drop $300 on pants.

So we built the Apex Pro Series.

3-layer waterproof shell. Odor-neutralizing liner. 3D Moss Camo that actually collects debris. Articulated joints. And a price point under $250 for the full top and bib.

We didn’t invent anything. But we put it all together in a way that works.

And yeah, we’re not in Cabela’s. You won’t see us on Instagram ads with a guy posing on a mountain.

But we’ve shipped to hunters in 17 states. And the return rate? Less than 2%.

Most returns were sizing issues. We fixed them. Sent new ones.

No refunds. Just make it right.

Because that’s what you do when you actually care.

What’s New in 2025? (Spoiler: It’s Not What You Think)

Everyone’s talking about “smart hunting gear.” Heated jackets. GPS vests. Apps that track deer movement.

Cool. But most of us don’t need that.

We need gear that doesn’t fail.

But there are a few real innovations in 2025:

1. Recycled, High-Performance Fabrics

We’ve been testing recycled ripstop—made from old fishing nets and plastic bottles. Strong. Lightweight. And honestly? Performs just as well as virgin nylon.

We’re rolling it out in our 2025 line. Not as a “green” gimmick. Because it works.

And hunters care more than you think. One client in Oregon said: “I’m out there to respect the land. I don’t want my gear trashing it.”

Fair.

2. AI-Optimized Camo Patterns

We’re using AI now to test camo patterns in real environments.

Not just “looks good.” But: How many pixels does it take for a deer to detect a human shape?

We ran 500 simulations. Forest, swamp, desert. And tweaked the pattern until detection time dropped by 30%.

Is it magic? No. But it’s better.

And we’re not patenting it. We’re using it.

3. Heated Gear—But Only Where It Makes Sense

Heated jackets? Overkill.

But heated gloves? Yeah. We’ve got a prototype with battery pockets in the cuff. 4-hour runtime. Waterproof.

For those 5 AM sits in December? Game changer.

We’re not launching it yet. Still testing. But it’s coming.

The Real Problem No One Talks About: MOQs and Custom Brands

Here’s the thing most hunting brands won’t tell you:

You don’t have to buy their brand.

You can make your own.

I’ve seen small hunting guides, outfitters, even local stores launch their own lines—custom camo, custom logos, full kits.

And they’re not spending $50K to do it.

We helped a guy in Idaho start his own brand. MOQ? 50 pieces. We did the design, the fabric, the production.

He sells it for 3x what he paid. No middleman.

And his clients love it—because it’s theirs.

We do OEM/ODM, private label, full customization. You bring the idea, we make it real.

Even if you’ve never done it before.

We’ve got a Small Seller Support Program —we walk you through it. From sketch to shipment.

And yeah, we offer free design services . No charge.

Because we know how hard it is to get started.

What Should You Buy? (The Real Answer)

Look. I can’t tell you what to buy.

But I can tell you what most hunters need:

  • A good base layer (moisture-wicking, not cotton)
  • A mid layer (fleece or lightweight puffy)
  • A quiet, waterproof outer (with pit zips)
  • Durable pants (reinforced seat and knees)
  • Scent control (through fabric and habits)
  • Proper fit (especially for bowhunters)

And if you’re building a brand? Start small. Test. Iterate.

We’ve helped over 500 small brands launch. Many started with 30 pieces.

You don’t need a warehouse. You need good gear.

And if you want to talk? We’re here. Just hit us up at contact. No bots. Real person answers.

Wrap-Up

Man, I’m tired. Been writing this all day. Kid’s got soccer at 9 AM tomorrow. Probably won’t get much sleep.

But this stuff matters. Gear matters. When you’re out there, alone, in the dark, you need to trust what you’re wearing.

So do your homework. Try stuff. Break it in.

And if you’re thinking about making your own line? Don’t overthink it. Just start.

FAQs

Isn’t Fexwear just a gym clothes brand?
We started there. But we make tough gear. Hunters use it. So do guides, hikers, even some military contractors. It’s not just “activewear.” It’s functional clothing.

Can I really start a hunting clothing brand with 50 pieces?
Yeah. We’ve done it. MOQs start at 30 for sublimated gear. We help with design, fabric, shipping. Check out our no-MOQ manufacturing page .

Do your clothes actually work in the field?
We test them. Hunters wear them. We’ve had jackets come back with mud, blood, and claw marks. They held up. Not perfect. But tough.

How long does it take to make a custom order?
Depends. Rush jobs? 7–10 days. Normal? 3–4 weeks. We’ve got our own factory and partner mills. Speed isn’t the problem—design is. Get the design right, and we’ll build it fast.

Why should I trust you over the big brands?
You don’t have to. Try us. Order a sample. If it sucks, tell us. We’ll fix it. That’s all we ask.

Can you help me with scent control?
We build odor-neutralizing fabric in. But real scent control? That’s on you. Wash right. Store right. Hunt smart.

Call to Discussion

Alright. I’m done.

But I want to hear from you.

What’s the one piece of hunting clothing you can’t live without?

Or—what’s the worst gear you’ve ever bought?

Drop a comment. Or hit reply if you’re reading this in an email.

Let’s keep it real.

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