Waterfowl apparel gear guide

This year’s crop of boots, jackets, waders and more is designed to keep you warm and comfortable in the field.
Waterfowl apparel gear guide

Columbia Wader Wigeon Jacket

This feature-packed jacket’s got a removable storm hood, waterproof/breathable construction and the space-age Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining to reflect your own body heat and keep you warmer. $300; www.columbia.com

Irish Setter Rutmaster

Don’t let the “rut” part fool you — these rubber/neoprene boots are a goose-hunter’s dream. They’re available in insulated or non-insulated, with a Mud Claw sole that sheds mud and ExoFlex technology that lets you get the boot on easily, and helps it stay on snugly and comfortably. $139-$159; www.irishsetterboots.com

Mack’s Prairie Wings WindTamer Fleece

Surprisingly warm considering its relatively light weight, this microfleece line includes a 5-pocket elastic-waist pant, a full-zip jacket, a vest and a pullover (pictured). Comfortable and practical, the whole line is available in a variety of Avery’s waterfowling patterns. $80 for the pants; www.mackspw.com

Muck Boots Woody Sport

With a comfort range of -20 to 70 degrees F, these waterproof 5mm neoprene boots will handle just about any conditions. The molded rubber Speed-Tracker outsole offers traction, while the stretch-fit topline binding stays snug to keep warmth in and cold out. $140; www.muckboots.com

Sitka Gear Duck Oven Jacket

Sitka’s much-anticipated high-tech layering system for waterfowlers is here. The Duck Oven jacket, pictured, uses Windstopper and Primaloft for warmth without bulk. It’s distinctive GORE Optifade Marsh camo was developed based on how ducks see color, pattern and depth. $250; www.sitkagear.com

Cabela’s One-Strap Waders

The Northern Flight One-Strap Waders let you wear the single shoulder strap on either shoulder, solving the problem of your strap (or worse, the buckle) getting in the way of your shotgun mount. There’s 1,200 grams of Thinsulate in the boots and the uppers are 5mm neoprene. Also available in “stout” size. $240; www.cabelas.com

Browning Dirty Bird Vari-Tech

The Pre-Vent waterproof, breathable fabric and fully taped external seams on the Vari-Tech line will keep you dry and comfortable in the worst weather. A jacket, base layer pullover and half bib are available. $268 for the jacket; shown. www.browning.com

Natural Gear 4x4 Concealment System Jacket

The insulated liner and the outer shell of this jacket are both waterproof and windproof, and can be worn separately or together for ultimate versatility. Features include loads of pockets, 150 grams of insulation, elastic waist, Velcro cuff adjusters and of course, Nat Gear’s popular camo patterns that blend in just about anywhere. $209; www.naturalgear.com

Rocky MudSox Waders

Rocky entered the waterfowl market this year with a full line of apparel. The MudSox waders are 5mm neoprene with 800 grams of Thinsulate in the boots and feature quick-release buckles, rubberized knee guards, MudSox outsole with self-cleaning tread pattern, a waterproof inside cell phone pocket and Rocky SIQ Atomic to control moisture. $295; www.rockyboots.com

Under Armour Skysweeper System

UA Coldgear technology and PrimaLoft insulation make this jacket and bib warm, windproof and waterproof. The jacket has a removable hood, ArmourGrip shoulder for the butt of your gun, removable PrimaLoft vest and adjustable neoprene cuffs. $250 for the jacket, $220 for the bibs; www.underarmour.com

Drake Double Duty Gloves

With Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable technology and Drake’s durable Refuge HS shell fabric, these gauntlet-style gloves fit over your jacket sleeves to keep your hands and arms warm when you’re setting or gathering decoys in frigid water. Try wearing them on the ATV or boat ride in to the marsh, too. $90; www.drakewaterfowl.com

Banded Breathable Knee Boot

Startup company Banded aims to provide “tactical” waterfowl gear, and their breathable knee boot delivers. It uses SHEDS waterproof breathable technology and 900D exterior construction for a great alternative to neoprene or rubber boots that trap moisture. Available in uninsulated, 800-gram and 1200-gram Thinsulate. www.banded.com



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