Human Energy Concealment Systems (HECS)

Deeper levels of science and animal-understanding continue to push apparel companies to develop new technology to help hunters in the field. Human Energy Concealment Systems (541-575-4327; www.hecsllc.com) is certainly one of the companies at the head of the scientific pack, having taken a cue from the medical world and the research associated with electromagnetic energy. HECS’s line of apparel utilizes their Energy Cloak Fabric (a specialized conductive carbon fiber grid pattern) to block up to 90-percent of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the human heart. If this sounds far-fetched consider the fact that HECS’s engineers believe they’ve discovered that animals can sense electromagnetic radiation and will react negatively to it. The full suit ($179—complete with pants, shirt and head net), is covered in NEXT Camo and is available in sizes to 3X.

Hunter’s Specialties Scent-A-Way Tek 4 Base Layer Clothing

Nylon threads that are permanently encapsulated in pure silver are the key to preventing odor in Hunter’s Specialties (319-395-0321; www.hunterspec.com) new Scent-A-Way Tek 4 base layer clothing ($7-$70). In addition to lifetime scent control, the Tek-4 garments are designed to provide permanent moisture management, which traps perspiration and moisture and then moves it away from the body. Lastly, the Tek-4 garments utilize thermal properties to regulate body temperature in all conditions. They’re available in both lightweight and heavyweight options, multiple sizes and Realtree AP HD or solid “Champagne.”

IWOM Hunting Parka System

With the introduction of the IWOM (814-272-5400; www.iwomouterwear.com) Hunting Parka System ($299), hunters now have the option to employ a multi-faceted piece of outerwear designed to stave off all stages of cold weather. The waterproof and breathable Hunting Parka System starts out as a “hands-free” carry bag for hiking into stand. Once hunters are ready to climb they can convert their carry bag into a parka, and then fully deploy the garment once seated for complete coverage from head to toe. This system provides archery hunters the opportunity to remain mobile while offering wind and weather resistance—via a durable knit outer layer coupled with a layer of premium insulation. Integrated SmartSilver antimicrobial technology works to quell game-spooking scent; a brushed tricot inner lining delivers comfort.

Whitewater Drencher Rain Jacket & Pant

Located smack-dab in the middle of Whitewater Outdoors’ (920-564-2674; www.whitewateroutdoors.com) Realtree Pro-Series line of apparel is the Drencher Rain Jacket and Pant. Both garments are 100-percent waterproof, breathable and available in either Realtree Max-1 or APG camouflage. The Drencher Jacket boasts an attached hood with adjustment flaps, a full zip front with storm flap, and a grommeted rear license loop for states that require a back tag. The Drencher pants feature an elasticized waistband and front slash pockets.

Medalist Cheyenne Ultralight Microfiber Button Front Shirt & Pants

Medalist (800-543-8952; www.medalist.com) opened 2010 with a completely revamped line of apparel. A color-coded layering system for ease-in-understanding and 360 degrees of integrated pure silver in the form of their SilverMax scent elimination technology work together to enhance the experience of not only hunting with Medalist products, but also purchasing them. The Cheyenne Ultralight Microfiber Button Front Shirt ($80) falls into their “Mid Layer” line and features a brushed microfiber shell to aid in stealth, and wind protection in the form of micro-polyester fabric. You’ll also find two front zippered pockets, and a drop tail to keep hunters covered during high activity. Cheyenne Microfiber Pants ($80) feature six pockets, draw cords at the leg openings and elastic waist.

Predator Camo Fleece Jacket & Pant

Bowhunters have utilized fleece for years due to the fact that it’s ultra-quiet and comfortable, and the folks at Predator Camo (800-430-3305; www.predatorcamo.com) have certainly taken note. Their Fleece Jacket ($90) and Pants ($90) are produced with 380-gram heavyweight fleece to provide warmth and protection from heat-sapping wind. The Fleece Pants feature six pockets, wide belt loops with inside suspender buttons, reinforced knees and a wind barrier lining. Both the Fleece Jacket and Pants are available in sizes ranging from M-3XL and in several camo patterns including Fall Grey, Green Deception and Brown Deception.

Rocky Brands Broadhead ArcherFit Compression Jacket

Long known for their rugged line of hunting boots, Rocky (877-795-2410; www.rockyboots.com) also produces a comprehensive line of hunting clothing. Of particular interest to bowhunters is the ArcherFit Compression Jacket ($140), which features Rocky’s SiQ Atomic scent control technology, 40 grams of Thinsulate Insulation, and SilentHunter suede fabric. To enhance the bowhunting experience and keep hunters safe, the ArcherFit jacket is designed to repel water through their HydroShed technology and features a rear safety harness slot.

Russell Outdoors APXG2 L4 Two Layer Soft Shell Jacket & Pant

Apparel specialist Russell Outdoors (800-331-5624; www.russelloutdoorsgear.com) has been around for a full decade, but really started turning heads with their APX line introduced in 2004. The APX line is now in its second generation (g2) and is better than ever, exemplified by its bowhunter-friendly APXg2 L4 Two Layer Softshell Jacket ($190) and Pant ($180).

The “L4” in the product name refers to the Level 4 of their layering system that was developed to provide hunters with a simple way to effectively use all products in any hunting conditions. Both the Soft Shell Jacket and Pant feature a mid- and an outer-layer for varying levels of protection against precipitation and temperature, as well as multi-directional stretch fabric that provides unrestrained movement. Notables on the pants include heavy-duty attached suspenders, a higher-than-normal waist back, and zippers that zip past the knees. The 100-percent polyester jacket features a micro-fleece lining for comfort and bonded zippers and pockets for durability.

Rutwear Endurance Series Jacket

To meet the demands of truly active hunters, Rutwear (866-521-5012; www.rutwear.com) developed the Endurance Series, which contains four stages of layering designed to cut down on bulk while still keeping hunters dry, warm and scent free. One product that can be found in Stage 3 of their layering system is the Mid-Season ABL Jacket ($140). Notable features of the ABL Jacket include Anti-Microbial Technology that kills human scent, and a stretchy soft-shell fabric that doesn’t restrict movement and is highly breathable.

Scentblocker Dream Season Silent Shell Jacket

Robinson Outdoors’ (800-397-1927; www.scentblocker.com) new Scentblocker Dream Season Silent Shell Jacket ($250) features their Cold Fusion technology, which is micro powdered, activated carbon that is fused onto fabric—providing uniform coverage against odors. As the name implies, the Silent Shell Jacket also offers users a quiet yet durable, burr-resistant shell on the outside that is DWR (Durable Water Repellency) treated. Other notables that bowhunters are sure to appreciate include Boa BodyLock technology in the collar and cuffs, a safety-harness slit, and a rangefinder pocket located on the right side of the jacket.

Sitka Incinerator Jacket & Bibs

Devout Western bowhunters have put Sitka’s (707-253-1122; www.sitkagear.com) apparel though the rigors of tough hunting conditions with plenty of fallen critters as the result. Eastern whitetail hunters have mostly watched from the sidelines, but they need wait no more now that Sitka has released the Incinerator Jacket ($599) and Bibs ($469) from their Forest product line. Covered in Gore’s new Optifade Big Game/Forest pattern, which is designed for concealment in elevated hunting scenarios, these down-filled garments also feature a waterproof/breathable Gore-Tex shell. Multiple bowhunter-friendly pockets, waterproof zippers, a lightly brushed face for noise reduction, and full articulation to allow ease-in-movement complete the Incinerator Series.

Browning Hell’s Canyon Full Throttle Jacket & Pant

The Hell’s Canyon lineup from Browning (800-333-3288; www.browning.com) is designed with ruggedness, weather-resistance and stealth in mind. Two stand-outs in the lineup include the Full Throttle Jacket ($108-$117) and Pant ($108-$117). A two-layer bonded construction featuring a weather-resistant outer shell and a moisture-wicking Odorsmart featherweight fleece lining are designed to keep wearers warm and dry in any conditions; the Jacket also boasts on-seam handwarmer pockets, a bottom draw cord, and extra large zippered chest pockets. Both are available in several Mossy Oak camo patterns.

First Lite Gila Pant

Long heralded by Western bowhunters for the quality merino wool used to produce their garments and their usage of ASAT (All Situations, All Terrain) camouflage pattern, First Lite (208-721-0101; www.firstlite.com) has expanded its line to appeal to hunters across the country. First Lite’s Gila Pants ($160) represent the companies’ first deviation from merino wool into the world of 99-percent virgin wool (one-percent nylon rip stop for durability). The 14-ounce, breathable virgin wool is machine washable but requires line drying. Advantages of the virgin wool include exceptional breathability, resistance to burrs, and the ability to retain 80-percent of its warmth even when soaking wet. In another step away from their roots, beginning in 2010 First Lite is also offering two new camo patterns—Realtree AP and Mossy Oak’s new Break-up Infinity.

Toad-A-Flage Hunter’s Jackett

Many of the best bowhunting products can trace their genesis to a particular “in the field” event. In Toad-A-Flage’s (865-548-1283; www.toadaflage.com) case, the “Ah-ha!” moment occurred in 2006 while the owners worked up a food plot and came upon one of the well-hidden amphibians. In the resulting discussion the idea for a new type of camouflage was born.

Today, Toad-A-Flage offers several different garments including the Hunter Jacket ($65)—which boasts a zip front with snap storm flaps, several pockets including two specifically-designed fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, elastic and adjustable snap cuffs, and an elastic waistband. Choose from “American Toad” camouflage for early- and mid-season hunts, and “Snow Toad” for late season.

Under Armour Ridge Reaper Softshell Jacket & Pant

Warmth without weight is the name of the game for modern hunting apparel, and Under Armour Performance Apparel (888-727-6687; www.underarmour.com) has met the challenge head-on with their Ridge Reaper Jacket ($200) and Pant ($179). Both pieces utilize fabric technology that cuts down on overall weight, while remaining light enough to pack into the steepest and most-rugged high-country basins. Capture Scent Technology works to control human scent, while articulation throughout the garments promotes ease-in-movement.