Gander Mountain offered a range of hunting and outdoor jackets designed for various weather conditions and activities, from early-season bowhunting to late-season cold weather sits.
Complete your hunting gear setup with quality jackets and outdoor apparel designed for serious hunters.
Types of Hunting Jackets
Modern hunting jackets serve specific purposes based on weather conditions, hunting style, and activity level.
Insulated Down Jackets
Best For: Cold weather stationary hunting
Temperature: Below 30°F
Features 800+ fill power down, packable and ultralight construction for maximum warmth without bulk. Ideal for treestand hunting in freezing conditions.
Softshell Jackets
Best For: Active hunting, mid-season
Temperature: 30-50°F
Wind-resistant, breathable design with quiet fabric and stretch material. Perfect for spot-and-stalk hunters who need mobility and stealth.
Fleece Jackets
Best For: Layering, mild weather
Temperature: 40-60°F
Silent operation with warm insulation and moisture-wicking properties. Excellent mid-layer option for variable weather conditions.
Rain Jackets
Best For: Wet conditions, waterproof protection
Temperature: All temperatures
Gore-Tex or similar membrane with taped seams and packable design. Essential for unexpected weather during hunting trips.
Insulated Parkas
Best For: Extreme cold, treestand hunting
Temperature: Below 20°F
Heavy insulation with extended length and hand warmer pockets. Maximum warmth for stationary hunting in harsh winter conditions.
Heated Jackets
Best For: Extreme cold, stationary hunting
Temperature: Below 0°F
Battery-powered heating elements with adjustable warmth levels. Ultimate solution for prolonged exposure to frigid temperatures.
Top Hunting Jackets on Amazon
Quality hunting jackets combine weather protection with features designed specifically for hunting applications.
Insulated Down Jackets
Lightweight down jackets provide exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio for cold weather hunting. Modern designs use 800+ fill power down with water-resistant treatments.
Packable construction allows storage in backpack when not needed. Ideal for stationary hunting in tree stands or ground blinds during late season.
Softshell Hunting Jackets
Softshell jackets offer versatile performance for active hunting. Wind-resistant membranes block cold air while stretch fabric allows full range of motion for drawing bows or shouldering rifles.
Breathable construction prevents overheating during hikes. Quiet outer fabric won’t spook game during close-range encounters.
Waterproof Rain Jackets
Rain jackets with Gore-Tex or similar membranes provide waterproof protection without sacrificing breathability. Taped seams prevent water intrusion.
Packable designs fold into own pocket for easy storage. Essential gear for unexpected weather during hunting trips in wet climates.
Fleece Hunting Jackets
Fleece jackets serve as excellent mid-layers or standalone pieces for mild weather. Silent fabric allows stealthy movement without noise that alerts game.
Windproof fleece varieties combine warmth with wind protection. Moisture-wicking properties keep hunters comfortable during temperature changes.
Insulated Hunting Parkas
Heavy insulated parkas provide maximum warmth for extreme cold conditions. Extended length protects lower body when sitting. Multiple hand warmer pockets prevent frozen fingers.
High-loft synthetic or down insulation retains heat during stationary hunting. Safety harness pass-throughs accommodate treestand equipment.
Heated Hunting Jackets
Battery-powered heated jackets offer adjustable warmth for extreme cold. Carbon fiber heating elements distribute heat across chest and back areas.
Multiple heat settings extend battery life. Waterproof designs function in wet conditions. Ideal for hunters who face prolonged exposure to frigid temperatures.
Choosing the Right Hunting Jacket
Selecting appropriate hunting jackets depends on climate, hunting style, and activity level during hunts.
Climate Considerations: Northern hunters need heavy insulation for sub-zero temperatures. Southern hunters benefit from lighter, breathable options for mild weather hunts.
Activity Level: Active spot-and-stalk hunters require breathable jackets with moisture management. Stationary treestand hunters prioritize maximum insulation over breathability.
Hunting Method: Bowhunters need jackets with stretch fabric and quiet materials. Rifle hunters can use slightly noisier fabrics since shooting distances exceed sound range.
Layering System: Base layers, mid-layers, and outer shells work together. Jackets should accommodate multiple layers underneath without restricting movement.
Pair your jacket with quality camping gear for overnight hunting trips and backcountry adventures.
Sizing for Layering: Order hunting jackets one size larger than normal clothing if planning to wear heavy mid-layers underneath. Test range of motion with all layers before hunting season.
Key Jacket Features
Modern hunting jackets incorporate features designed specifically for hunting applications beyond general outdoor use.
Quiet Fabrics: Fleece and brushed materials reduce noise during movement. Avoid nylon shells that create swishing sounds when branches contact fabric.
Camouflage Patterns: Match patterns to hunting environment. Mossy Oak and Realtree patterns suit various terrains from hardwoods to open fields.
Pocket Configuration: Multiple pockets provide storage for calls, scent bottles, ammunition, and small gear. Hand warmer pockets prevent frozen fingers during cold weather.
Hood Design: Adjustable hoods protect head and neck from wind and precipitation. Some models include built-in facemasks for extra concealment during close encounters.
Safety Harness Compatibility: Treestand hunters require jackets with pass-through openings for safety harness straps. This feature prevents bulk and maintains proper harness function.
Pit Zips: Zippered ventilation under arms allows heat dump during active hiking. Essential for preventing sweat buildup that causes chill during stationary periods.
Popular Hunting Jacket Brands
Several manufacturers specialize in hunting-specific outerwear with proven performance across various conditions.
Sitka Gear: Premium brand known for innovative fabrics and effective camouflage patterns. Popular models include Jetstream softshell and Fanatic insulated jacket for serious hunters.
Kuiu: Focuses on ultralight backcountry gear without sacrificing durability. Guide DCS jacket receives excellent reviews for versatility across temperature ranges.
First Lite: Combines merino wool with synthetic materials for odor control and temperature regulation. Brooks Down Sweater offers classic styling with modern performance.
Cabela’s: Affordable options with solid construction. Berber fleece line provides quiet, warm performance at budget-friendly prices for Midwest treestand hunters.
Browning: Long-standing outdoor brand offering jackets for various hunting styles. Hell’s Canyon Speed line features windproof softshell construction for active hunters.
Layering System for Hunting
Effective layering allows temperature regulation throughout the day as weather and activity levels change.
Base Layer: Moisture-wicking merino wool or synthetic fabric against skin. Removes sweat to prevent chill during stationary periods after active hiking.
Mid-Layer: Fleece jacket or insulated vest provides primary warmth. Choose weight based on expected temperatures and personal metabolism.
Outer Layer: Windproof and waterproof shell protects from elements. Softshell jackets work for dry conditions while rain jackets handle precipitation.
Insulation Layer: Down or synthetic insulated jacket adds warmth for cold weather. Pack separately and add when reaching hunting location to prevent overheating during hike.
Quality jackets also work great for fishing trips and other outdoor activities beyond hunting season.
Jacket Care and Maintenance
Proper care extends jacket life and maintains performance of technical fabrics and waterproof membranes.
Washing Instructions: Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning. Most technical fabrics require gentle detergents without fabric softeners that damage DWR coatings.
DWR Restoration: Durable Water Repellent coatings wear off over time. Reapply DWR spray treatments annually to restore water-shedding performance.
Storage: Hang jackets in dry location away from direct sunlight. Avoid compressing down jackets for extended periods as this reduces loft and insulation value.
Repairs: Patch small tears immediately to prevent expansion. Many manufacturers offer repair services for damaged jackets including zipper replacement and seam repair.
Scent Control: Wash hunting jackets with scent-eliminating detergents. Store in scent-free bags between hunts to minimize human odor that alerts game animals.
Find more sporting goods and hunting accessories to complete your outdoor gear collection.
Weather-Specific Jacket Selection
Different weather conditions require specific jacket types for optimal comfort and performance during hunts.
Wet Weather: Waterproof rain jackets with taped seams essential. Look for Gore-Tex or similar breathable membranes that prevent both rain penetration and internal condensation.
Windy Conditions: Windproof softshells or down jackets with wind-resistant shells. Wind significantly increases heat loss through wind chill effect requiring wind-blocking outer layers.
Extreme Cold: Heavy insulated parkas or heated jackets for temperatures below zero. Layer synthetic insulation that retains warmth even when damp from perspiration.
Variable Weather: Versatile softshell jackets handle changing conditions. Add or remove mid-layers underneath to adjust warmth level throughout the day.
Browse more outdoor gear and hiking equipment for all your adventure needs.
Related Hunting Gear
Complete your hunting gear setup with quality equipment for successful outdoor adventures.
Browse hunting apparel including base layers, pants, and accessories for complete weather protection.
Explore outdoor equipment from trusted brands designed for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of hunting jacket is best for cold weather?
Heavy insulated parkas or down jackets work best for extreme cold below 20°F. Look for 800+ fill power down or synthetic insulation with windproof outer shells. Heated jackets provide adjustable warmth for stationary hunting in sub-zero temperatures with battery-powered heating elements.
Should hunting jackets be one size larger?
Yes, order one size larger if planning to wear heavy mid-layers underneath. This allows proper layering without restricting arm movement for drawing bows or shouldering rifles. Test fit with all intended layers before hunting season to ensure adequate range of motion.
What makes a jacket quiet for hunting?
Quiet hunting jackets use fleece, wool, or brushed synthetic fabrics that don’t create noise when moving through brush. Avoid slick nylon shells that swish and rustle. Soft materials like microfleece or Berber fleece allow silent movement critical for close-range encounters with game.
Are waterproof jackets necessary for hunting?
Waterproof rain jackets are essential gear for hunting in wet climates or during unpredictable weather. Gore-Tex membranes provide waterproof protection while maintaining breathability to prevent internal condensation. Packable rain jackets fold small for emergency weather protection without adding significant weight to packs.
How do I choose camouflage pattern for hunting jackets?
Match camouflage patterns to hunting environment and season. Mossy Oak Bottomland works in hardwood forests. Realtree Edge suits varied terrain. Early season requires greener patterns while late season benefits from brown and gray tones. Some hunters prefer solid earth tones over camo for versatility across locations.
What features should bowhunters look for in jackets?
Bowhunters need stretch fabric in shoulders and arms for drawing bows without restriction. Quiet materials prevent noise that alerts game at close range. Fitted sleeves avoid interference with bowstring. Some jackets include harness pass-throughs for treestand safety equipment. Test drawing motion before purchasing.
How do heated hunting jackets work?
Heated jackets use rechargeable battery packs to power carbon fiber heating elements in chest, back, and collar areas. Multiple heat settings allow adjustment from low to high based on temperature. Batteries typically provide 3-10 hours depending on heat level selected. Most models feature waterproof construction for wet weather use.
Related Hunting Gear
Complete your hunting gear and game processing setup with quality equipment from trusted outdoor brands.
Browse hunting apparel including base layers, pants, and accessories for complete weather protection.
Explore outdoor equipment from trusted brands designed for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Stay Comfortable in Any Weather
Quality hunting jackets for successful outdoor adventures year-round.
