Best Hunting Bibs For Cold Weather In 2024 Tested And Reviewed

Bibs are necessary for hunting during harsh weather. So let us use our experience to help you choose the best hunting bibs which are suitable for you or as a gift for your hunter.

Our staff tested and evaluated different bib options for hunting in the cold, blizzard conditions, and other inclement weather. We will also be exploring the best choices when marsh or bowhunting. 

We will visit a classic wool possibility, and ladies, we have you covered as well. Best of all, we will search out the best in every price range. 

Best Hunting Bibs At A Glance

Best Hunting Bibs: Reviews And Recommendations

Best Overall: SITKA Gear Stratus Bibs

After testing and evaluating, we have chosen SITKA Gear Stratus Bibs as our Best Overall, no pun intended. These are not your Grandpa’s overalls (bibs). Materials, durability, and technology have allowed us to better our odds at getting that big buck or a meaty doe.

A quiet, soft micro-fleece Gore-Tex shell and a warm-but-breathable micro-grid interior respond well to body temperature in changing weather conditions. That means no more swishing sound with every step.

One of our favorite features is the silent snap cargo pockets that are easy to access while in the seated position. Anyone that has reached for ammo or maybe a phone or camera and spooked a deer will appreciate that. Leg zippers for easy on and off, hand pockets, and great camouflage patterns are some other reasons to fall in love with these bibs.

This camouflage pattern uses the Gore Optifade Concealment technology. It is the only scientifically proven concealment pattern based on animal vision data to fade a hunter into their hunting environment optically. 

When we add that to machine washable with our favorite no scent product, it is hard to find a reason not to own a pair. For those who hunt in the cold and work in the cold, you can also order a pair in a solid color.

It is important to note that these bibs come in three different fits, performance, standard, and expedition. These vary to meet your individual comfort levels and individual needs.

Performance Fit was developed for minimal layering. This fit is designed to prevent inefficiencies in heat retention caused by a loose fit. It is form-fitting.

Standard Fit is fashioned with a little more room than the Performance Fit. It is designed to accommodate layering for more versatility in various season climates.

Expedition Fit is designed for maximum layering in the worst conditions. This fit is cut roomier to accommodate additional layering underneath.

When we first saw this pair of bibs and all of its features, we knew that the designer had to be a hunter. We were correct. Jonathon Hart introduced SITKA Gear out of frustration and inability to find adequate gear for hunting. 

Later this company was bought by W.L. Gore & Associates Inc., the American multinational company best known as the developer of waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® Fabrics. This became the perfect merger of ideas and fabrics.

Check out this in-depth SITKA Stratus Bibs Review video.

SITKA Gear Bibs are top of the line. A pair of bibs meant to last a lifetime and always maintain superior performance. Bibs designed with no swishing when you walk, waterproof, warm, and soft, is a dream. 

Best Insulated: SITKA Insulated Fanatic Bibs

Our staff's top pick for best insulated hunting bibs is the SITKA Insulated Fanatic Bibs. These are our go-to bibs during the late season or anytime we are hunting in really cold conditions.

If you need bibs because you are hunting in the frigid cold or the mountains, you may want higher insulated bibs. This pair of bibbed overalls are insulated with mapped 120-gram PrimaLoft Silver Hi-Loft Ultra Insulation.

The outside fabric is made of High Loft Jacquard Berber Fleece with a DWR finish. The lining includes 2-layer GORE-TEX INFINIUM with WINDSTOPPER Technology and a  polyester micro-grid fleece knit interior. These bibs weigh 53.1 ounces. 

Following in the same SITKA quality and style, they are made from soft fleece and feature silent snaps and buckles. These are machine washable and easy to care for, and come in 3 different styles and sizes. 

Science of Sound is the new Fanatic system that incorporates a Fanatic Bib that allows a hunter the ability to move comfortably with less sound by cutting the audibility distance in half.

These bibs up your game if you need late-season, cold weather bibs. This is not just a pair of bibs, but a unique system made to work together and keep you as warm and quiet as possible.

Sitka introduced the Fanatic System and then upped the ante by making the system quieter and warmer. They have added or enhanced almost every feature. 

Let’s start by taking a look at the new safety harness port. Although there was a port in the previous fanatic design, it had one small problem. It was necessary to disconnect to put the jacket on or off. Sitka updated the feature, and now you can put your coat on or off without disconnecting.

Another new tweek is the textile and fleece are now mapped.  Mapping down the left arm reduces contact with the bowstring. This leads to the Fanatic jacket now being available in right-hand or left-hand variations.  For those who are lefties, the textile will be mapped to the inside of your right arm.

The previous version of the Fanatic System’s fleece would pick up every burr and sticker in your path. Sitka listened and incorporated a burr resistant textile by mapping it to the hem and seat of the jacket. 

Additional design updates include ultra-quiet zippers, including the main diagonal zipper, a Low-Profile Rangefinder pocket with integrated grunt tube holder, and an Insulated hand muff pocket design with YKK zippers. They also have sewn in a hand-warmer holder into the muff.

Here is an awesome SITKA Fanatic Bibs Review video that will show you all of the features of these bibs.

The SITKA Fanatic Line is not a pair of hunting bibs. It is a full-on hunting system designed for warmth, silence, and stealth. These bibs become essential gear when you need an extra edge in arctic temperatures and quiet just before dawn, just like your firearm or bow. 

Best Cold Weather Bibs: Cabela's MT050 Whitetail Extreme GORE-TEX Bibs

Cabela's® MT050® Whitetail Extreme® GORE-TEX® Bibs deliver the best performance when it comes to bibs for wet and cold weather hunting. These bibs reduce the bulk of ordinary bibs by using Thinsulate™ Platinum Insulation. 

Advanced-Zone Thinsulate Platinum Insulation brings high-power 150-gram warming through the midsection, 100-gram below the knees, and throughout the chest to reduce bulk for easily tucking into boots and wearing under a coat. 100-gram Thinsulate Flex in the knees and 150-gram Thinsulate Flex in the seat allow comfort and mobility. 

The 100% waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX shell includes fully cohesive seams for true watertight integrity to keep you dry and comfortable in light rain or snow. Aquaguard heavy-duty, water-resistant zipper hardware ensures protection in wet conditions.

Hip-high leg zips allow painless dressing and undressing over layers or muddy boots. Stretchy sides and waist give these Cabela's bibs a tailored-like fit, while a gusseted crotch provides worry free mobility for crouching.

The concealed thigh pockets are great for access to your gear. Articulated knees enhance range of motion. More tools and equipment can be stored in the rear pocket and generous side cargo pockets. Cuffs that can be cinched to seal out the elements and the machine wash label complete these insulated bibs.

Cabella has a long history with outdoor sports. They pride themselves on making superior outdoor products.  I personally have a pair of these bibs that are more than 10  years old and still going strong. They will always have a spot in my cold gear and can't be beat when the extreme cold weather sets in.

Best for Bow Hunting: Legendary Whitetails Huntguard Reflextec Bibs

The SITKA hunting bibs above are the best for bow hunting, but we wanted to give you other options that are not as expensive. 

We have guys on our staff that swear by the Legendary Whitetails Huntguard Reflextec Bibs, but they are a step down in quality from the SITKA. They are also a major step down in price.

It would be a mistake to tell you about these bibs without paying respect and honor to this company's founder. The hunters today owe those who blazed the way a measure of respect. The knowledge we have and the innovation of gear are a direct result of veteran hunters.

The Legendary Website has this to say about the legendary Larry Huffman. “When it comes to celebrating the hunt, Larry Huffman pretty much wrote the manual. What started as a passion for hunting quickly became a lifetime of devotion to sharing that love with anyone and everyone who was interested. It's his principles, his vision, his obsession for sharing the hunt with others, in and out of the woods, that set in place the guide to living every day like it's the stuff of legends. 

Now let's get to the specifics. The Huntguard Reflextec Bibs were designed for two things in mind staying warm and dry! Legendary Whitetails confidently claims they are the warmest, most versatile hunting bibs available. When worn with the matching HuntGuard jacket, this pair of bibs have been tested and verified by Kansas State University to -94 degrees Fahrenheit.

When the cold weather conditions are over and the spring rains of early season hunts set in, remove the Reflextec liners, and you have an outstanding 100% water-resistant, breathable bib just in time for turkey season.

4-way stretch, silent micro-suede shell, lots of pockets, built-in heavy-duty HuntGuard padding, extra-long inseam with adjustable straps to fit 30"-34" inseams, and full length leg zippers round out to make this an incredibly versatile pair of bibs. 

You will also notice the Big Game Camo 360 pattern allows you to blend into your surroundings, while the padded knees add comfort when kneeling to pull back your bow.

For those new to bowhunting, this pair of bibs are a great way to buy only one pair of bibs and have the versatility of year round seasons. Two of the hunter's main concerns are met with these, to stay warm and dry. 

Best For The Money: Scheels Outfitters Wool Bibs

We are now taking a big step down from SITKA Gear quality, but if you are looking for a budget pair of hunting bibs that are really good quality, we recommend the Scheels Outfitters Wool Bibs.

Scheels has created a great product that is budget friendly. These bibs are not short on features like reinforced layers around the knee, keeping them protected and comfortable when kneeling.

This Bib features warm wool combined with soft, comfortable fleece that will keep you warm while hunting in just about any weather.

Wool is the best material for staying comfortable in various hunting environments.

These bibs also have full length side seam zippers that make it easy to put them on and take them off, even when wearing big, bulky boots.

These bibs are naturally water resistant  and wind resistance yet breathable. The bibs are designed for quiet movement and made specifically for all day comfort. This promotes agility when in the outdoors, hunting all day.

One of our favorite features is that there are plenty of well placed pockets for storing extra gear.

If you are looking for a great pair of hunting bibs that won't break the bank, we highly recommend these bibs from Scheels.

Best Waterproof: Sitka Hudson Waterproof Hunting Bib

The best waterproof hunting bibs are SITKA Hudson Bibs. They are a step above any other hunting bibs on the market today. They are perfect for duck hunting in the marsh, or deer hunting in the rain and wind.

Sitka doesn't just cater to deer hunters but all hunters. The Hudson Waterproof Hunting Bib will keep you dry during any hunting season. These bibs are not created for arctic weather but for hunting in inclement weather. The 3-layer GORE-TEX stretch technology provides waterproof protection that permits you to move more freely.

The GORE™ OPTIFADE™ Concealment Waterfowl Marsh camo pattern is designed for blind hunting in the marsh, standing crops, and cut stubble fields. Whether hunting marsh deer, duck, or marsh hens, you will remain dry.

These bibs are also created with wearability in mind. The GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable fabric helps you stay comfortable and focused. You will be able to stay as long as needed to have a successful hunt.

Just because the Hudson Waterproof Hunting Bibs were not created for arctic weather doesn't mean you will be cold on a cool morning. It has a body-mapped interior brushed flannel and lofted micro-grid fleece that is low-bulk but breathable and warm.

These bibs were also sewn with durability in mind. Sometimes we are in some pretty tough terrain, and Sitka has addressed this with reinforced seat and knee overlays to provide protection from abrasion.

Removable internal knee pads provide protection while kneeling to stalk or take your shot. Adjustable no-buckle suspension allows for a custom fit without the need for uncomfortable, bulky buckles.

Reviewers award a perfect 5-star rating for these bibs, and we tend to agree that these bibs are great for keeping dry and comfortable in all weather conditions. 

Sitka prides itself on turning apparel into the best hunting gear. These hunters want to promote rewarding hunts in every way they can. They have thought of everything, offer superior products, and are also open to any questions that assist their customers in achieving success.

Best Bibs and Jacket

The best bibs and jacket are the SITKA Blizzard Aerolite Bibs and Parka. This is the bibs and parka that you want if you are not worried about price and you want the best that money can buy.

Sitka Blizzard Aerolite Bibs

Sitka Blizzard Aerolite Bibs were intentionally designed because nothing saps your concentration as fast as frigid temps and wet, freezing conditions. Continuing to pile on layers restricts your mobility and ability to hike through the mountains and rough terrain. 

Sitka has addressed this by upgrading their Blizzard Bib Pant by using Synthetic PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation with Cross Core™ technology. This innovative synthetic insulation uses trapped air to replicate the warmth and compressibility of down. 

Lightweight high-loft insulation (35% recycled) is impregnated with silica aerogel, a nearly weightless material that consists of more than 95% air while still acting as additional thermal insulation. They were able to create warm-when-wet performance while significantly reducing bulk resulting in comfort and mobility in a whiteout.

GORE-TEX, a waterproof/breathable fabric, helps keep you comfortable and dry with a durable water repellent finish that resists precipitation and prevents the material from the wet.

3/4-length side zips permit venting and easy dressing and undressing. The seat is reinforced for added protection when riding a sled or sitting.

Zippered hip pockets and quiet snap cargo pockets securely stow your essentials and keep your movements as quiet as possible. 

We have not mentioned it yet, but it is vital to know that Sitka is known for its excellent customer service. We had noted their helpfulness, but many customers report that they have gone above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.

Sitka makes superior products, and these bibs are no exception. We recommend visiting their website and perusing all of their products. We are sure you will find the apparel you need and some you want.

Sitka Blizzard Aerolite Parka

When we choose to do a hunt in arctic weather, we do not only consider our bibs, but a great parka is absolutely necessary. Hunting is relaxing, fun, rewarding, and exhilarating but can turn deadly when safety is not prioritized. 

Maintaining our weapons of choice, mapping our surroundings, having emergency supplies, using caution in rough terrain, remaining dry, and choosing to protect our bodies are vital to thriving and surviving. 

Hunting in blizzard conditions is only possible when we have superior products to keep us safe. Weather is fickle and can become vicious quickly. Wearing a parka designed for blizzard weather is a life-saving safety measure.

Using GORE-TEX, Sitka has designed a waterproof insulated jacket built for late season hunts that have you sitting on exposed icy points or traveling into the howling wind and snow. A durable water repellent finish allows this parka to resist precipitation and prevents the fabric from becoming wet.

This parka uses the same Synthetic PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation with Cross Core™ technology Blizzard Aerolite Bibs. This synthetic insulation replicates the heat retention of down insulation but with warm-when-wet performance. It maximizes warmth while decreasing bulk for increased mobility.

PrimaLoft® is lightweight high-loft insulation (35% recycled) infused with silica aerogel, making it a nearly weightless material composed of more than 95% air and adding extra thermic insulation.

A fully adjustable, drop-away hood does not restrict peripheral vision and will be comfortable and out of your way when you do not need it. The water-sealing cuffs keep water out, but the warmth in.

A standard fit, zippered chest pocket, and fleece-lined hand warmer pockets round out this parka's best features. This parka was designed to not only keep you warm but become a piece of gear that serves your needs.

Sitka thinks and considers everything we need in all situations. Experienced hunters know hunting before a blizzard can be great because deer naturally sense it is coming and will be on the move. Also, hunting right after it clears out can also be fruitful because the deer will be hungry and roaming for food after bedding down during the storm.

Best Wool: Filson Mackinaw Wool Bibs

The best wool hunting bibs are the Filson Mackinaw Bibs. Let's face it, when it comes to wool hunting clothes, we always rely on Filson to provide quality garments that will be handed down to future generations.

A wind-tight and water-resistant coat, the Filson Cruiser earned Filson a place in history. This cruiser was designed and named by C.C. Filson. A patent was awarded on March 3, 1914, in the U.S., and it continues to inspire Filson's best selling items.

The Filson Hunter Coat was created with Mackinaw cloth, a heavy and dense water-repellent woolen cloth using a tartan pattern, often "buffalo plaid." This coat is an American icon. You may not know the proper name for this coat, but when you see it, a flood of memories of grandparents, parents, TV programs, and movies will flood your mind. It evokes nostalgia and classic standards.

Wool is naturally water-repellent and highly durable. Filson bibs are made with 100% virgin wool. Filson uses wool that will absorb as much as 30% of its own weight in moisture without becoming damp or clammy, resulting in retaining your body warmth even when very wet. 

Durability is assured by fibers that can even be flexed at least 20,000 times without breakage. Filson boasts there is no finer wool than Filson’s 100% virgin Mackinaw Wool. This wool comes from a hand picked herd of hardy sheep in the United States and Canada.

These bibs are true to fit and have buttoned gussets for dressing and undressing. These bibs are time tested and approved. Filson firmly believes that ideas without action are meaningless and back up this by their actions. They are committed to sustainability and that today will determine the state of our natural world for every tomorrow.

They have nine handy pockets for storage and suspenders that are fully adjustable with Bridle Leather tabs.

Sometimes there is no need for the bells and whistles of technology. Filson Mackinaw Wool Bibs are naturally durable, water resistant, breathable, and unrestricted while keeping you warm. Sometimes a classic doesn't need to redesign if it works. We think Filson's 124-year-old history and this classic design deserve a nod of respect for continuing to represent America gone by while dedicating itself to preserving the future.

Best For Duck Hunting: Cabela's Northern Flight Hunting Bibs

The best duck hunting bibs are the Cabela's Northern Flight Hunting Bibs. They will keep you warm and dry in the duck blind, no matter what the weather.

These bibs are our first choice for when we will be sitting in a duck blind in cold, windy, wet weather.

They are constructed in layers to be sure that you have every material you need to remain warm and dry so you can worry about your shooting skills, instead of worrying about the weather.

The exterior is 150 denier Diamond Ripstop which is about as rugged as you can get in a clothing material.

Next is the insulation, and it is completely seam sealed and treated with Cabela's 4MOST REPEL, water repellent.

The bibs are then laminated with 4MOST DRY-PLUS, a 100% waterproof/breathable membrane, that will keep water out while allowing sweat and moisture to escape.

When I first wore these bibs, I thought they were going to be too stiff for my liking, but I was wrong. The gusseted crotch and articulated knees made the bibs surprisingly flexible and comfortable to walk and bend.

My favorite part about these bibs is the sherpa lined hand warmer pockets. Trust me, you will come to love this feature when you are hunting in the cold.

Another nice feature is the gear pockets with drainage grommets. Cabelas really put a lot of thought into designing these bibs for the hardcore hunter.

Cabela's Northern Flight Hunting Bibs deliver dependability and durability. A Reinforced seat, knees, and adjustable shoulder straps offer leverages in a variety of situations, keeping you warm, dry, and comfortable.

These bibs have a lot to offer, comfort, warmth, protection from the elements but another popular feature is their price. Affordability can be an essential factor. If you are on a budget and the Sitka bibs are out of your price range, but still need a great set of bibs, we recommend starting here.

Best Affordable Hunting Bibs: RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Bibs

The best affordable hunting bibs are the RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Bibs. They do not have some of the high end features of the more expensive bibs, but they offer value for the price.

Remote, cold, it doesn't matter. True hunters follow their prey through thickets, mountains, and the creek. The RedHead® Silent Stalker Elite Bibs for men are designed for the adventure with 100% polyester construction, Thermolite® Micro Insulation, and the famous BONE-DRY® membrane for 100% waterproof/windproof/breathable protection. 

E.C. Cook & Bro. was founded in Chicago c.1867 by E.C. Cook (b.1845) and his brother F.W. Cook. The Cook brothers started manufacturing awnings, tents, waterproof wagons, horse and truck covers, flags, banners, and canvas signs. They saw another need, and to meet it, they expanded their line to include hunters' and tourists' outfits, including jackets, cartridge vests, leggings, hats, gun and rifle covers, holsters, cartridge belts, rod cases, belts, and boots.

The Red Head name was first used in 1908. In 1915, when a contract for boots for the British Army fell through, the company was forced to file for bankruptcy. The company changed hands several times, seeing minimal growth. In 1970, The Red Head Brand was relocated to Dallas, Texas. The brand is currently owned by Bass Pro shops and has been through rebranding and found success.

Thermolite® Micro Insulation is the key to these bibs' ability to keep you warm by harnessing your body heat while reducing bulk and loss of mobility. ThermoLite is a synthetic form of insulation created by the innovative company Invista, making Lycra, Stainmaster, and several other proprietary fibers and textiles.

The BONE-DRY® membrane delivers 100% waterproof/windproof/breathable performance to ensure your hunt is not interrupted by the elements or inclement weather.

RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Bibs for men feature a full-zip front with a double snap storm flap for rugged, reliable coverage and easy dressing and undressing. 

A fully adjustable harness system creates a tailored fit. There are several storage options, including two zip slash handwarmer pockets with snap storm flaps and a soft fleece lining. 

These bibs are machine washable and comfortable. 

Red Head is a product of Bass Pro and has been the go-to brand by many hunters for more than 113 years. These affordable bibs may be your place to start if you do not hunt in extreme conditions. If you do not get to hunt as much as you want and are on a budget. You can save money and own a quality pair of bibs.

Best Women's: ArcticShield Women’s Performance Bibs

The best women's hunting bibs are the ArcticShield Women’s Performance Bibs, offering superior fit and comfort in an affordable hunting bib.

The truth is not many brands cater to women hunters. 51.9% of hunters are men, which is the majority but not by much. 42.9% are women. 

Women have always had a presence in outdoor sports like hunting and fishing, but the gear industry has not reflected this. Women do not really want everything pink but want apparel that fits and gear that fits their smaller hands.

Arctic Shield Women's custom fitting bibs are equipped with Arctic-Shield-Technology for heat retention and are constructed of a quiet, bur-free micro-suede outer shell and a soft 280-gram polyester hi-count fleece lining. 

These bibs are stylish high-tech bibs with a tapered cut. But what’s style or pretty without function? This line features Retain™ technology to keep you warm in various situations. 

Women can depend on ArcticShield’s line of women’s clothing and outerwear to deliver quality, comfort, and warmth without the bulk, so you can enjoy the adventure as long as you want.

They offer a low-cut bib front with h-style suspenders, tall two-way side gussets, and multiple pockets to stash gear and necessities. Dressing and undressing are no problem in these bibs.

Reviewers agree these bibs are comfortable and allow you the ability to stay in the treestand longer. They offer lots of room to move around when trying to get in the perfect kill position. Another selling point that is echoed among reviewers is the absence of pink. 

Bibs vs. Pants For Hunting

Hunting Bibs

Hunting bibs cover your upper body(midsection and chest) to help hold the warmth in during cold weather. They are held up with shoulder straps, as opposed to a button and belt.

Pros

• Stays on during hunting; shoulder straps keep them on your body at all times. No need to worry about keeping your pants pulled up.
• Freedom of movement: Hunters need freedom of movement, and they get that from having no waist restrictions from buckles and belts. 
• A game changer for staying warm in cold weather.

Cons

• Get hot in warm weather, bibs will keep the heat inside, and as the day warms up, you may overheat, especially with insulated bibs.
• Going to the bathroom when you need to squat in the woods,  bibs can be a pain. And make sure you don’t let the straps hang, or there will be a different problem.

Hunting Pants

Hunting pants only come up to your waist and do not cover your midsection and chest, like bibs. They are typically held up via a button, zipper and belt, although they may also utilize suspenders.

Pros

• Great in warm weather 
• Easy to go to the bathroom; we’ve all squatted in the woods. Pants make it easier than bibs ever will.

Cons

• In cold weather, pants will only make you colder. Even when insulated pants. The midriff area will be exposed and allow the cold to penetrate. Tucking in your shirt may help, but that can be even more uncomfortable.
• Pants falling down, pants tend to creep down during hunting excursions. This leads to constant tugging and distraction.

In conclusion, answering the old debate depends on hunting conditions and personal preferences. Which cons can you not deal with and which pros are essential. 

How To Choose The Quality Hunting Bibs

Insulation

• Cotton – The least effective material for cold weather hunting apparel. It is only warm when it is dry. When wet, it will not maintain your body temperature but zap it.
• Wool – Very warm and water resistant, but it is also necessary to layer well.
• Down – scientifically proven the best and by which all insulation is measured by, but can lose warmth when wet.
• Treated Down –  Chemically treated goose down created to prevent the insulation from getting wet to improve warmth in soggy conditions.
• Fleece – Specially knit polyester that protects from the wind keeps heat and wicking away moisture. 
• Polyester Fill – A general insulation that helps keeps you warm and dry.
• Thermolite – Provides insulations without the bulk.
• Primaloft –  a synthetic goose, down developed for the military to be as warm as down dry or wet.
• Thinsulate – down alternative is best known for its thin fibers and low profile.
• Cocona – is a synthetic insulator that maintains an ideal core temperature. If you are cold, it warms up; if you are hot, it cools down.

Choices, choices, choices there are many. The best option will change for different conditions and situations as well as preferences and budgets. Are you hunting the swamp, tundra, the woods of Kentucky, or the mountains of Colorado? Each of these situations will generate different needs. We hope the information we have presented today will allow you to begin your search well educated.

Wind Proof

Wind proof fabrics are made windproof by weaving them very tightly, so any space between the threads is too small for air to pass through at speed. Gore-tex® is believed to be the most windproof and waterproof fabric available and is ideal for dealing with wind chill and cold weather..

Waterproof

The most common waterproof material used in making hunting apparel is GORE-TEX. There are other materials in the market, but none as readily available. Now that we know the fabric we will most likely be dealing with, let's check out how we choose which GORE-TEX material is best for our needs.

Waterproof membranes or PU films are sandwiched between an outside layer (or 'face fabric') and an inner layer ('scrim') sitting next to the skin. The face fabric adds durability and carries the DWR (Durable Water Repellent). The scrim wicks moisture outwards and helps protect the film and membrane from contaminants. The nature of the inner layer determines whether a fabric is 3, 2.5, or 2-layer.

3 Layer (e.g., GORE-TEX Pro) - outer, membrane & inner are bonded together into one flexible material

2.5 Layer (e.g., GORE-TEX Paclite) - outer & membrane are bonded together with a very thin internal carbon or textured 'half layer' on the inside

2-Layer (e.g., GORE-TEX Performance) - outer & membrane are bonded together, but the interior lining is a loose-hanging fabric or mesh

There are a variety of tests and measures used to calculate performance, but none are standardized or accepted industry-wide. The important thing is to understand quoted figures may be estimated because of various factors. For example, the face fabric or taping pattern can affect the performance results.

Zipper Legs

Zipper Legs are not an added feature. In our opinion, they are a necessity. When you put your bibs on over layers, or even if you don't, they can be challenging. No one wants to take 20 minutes to get dressed and undressed. Do yourself a favor and make sure the bibs you purchase have zippers on the lower legs, and the higher they reach, the better.

Materials and Durability

Most bibs offer reinforcements in all the right places, especially in the knee and seat areas, to keep from ripping holes in them and exposing yourself to the element. These areas are highly prone to wear and tear after short-term use. You’ll either be sitting or resting on your knees while patiently waiting for your target. So consider durability carefully.

RELATED: What Is The Hunter's Most Important Item Of Clothing?

Sizing

We know there are many theories about fit. Some believe form-fitting is better for warmth and keeping out moisture, while others feel that a roomy fit is better for mobility and comfort. Most hunters choose bibs 2"-3" larger than the biggest part of their belly.  Regardless of your preference, it remains crucial to ensure both warmth and comfort. Some manufacturers have several fits to choose from. 

Pockets

We do not just need pockets, but they must be strategically placed and easily accessed. When you are reaching for your call or ammo, those pockets must not just be available but able to be unsecured and secured quietly. Stubborn zippers, snaps, buckles, or straps can spook your game and ruin your chance at the buck you have been tracking for months.

Quiet

Hunting apparel that swishes when you walk or is so bulky you break every branch you hit will not put you in a position for a successful hunt. Material rubbing or latches, snaps, and buckles must be as quiet as possible, especially when reaching for ammo when the 12 pointer is already in your sites. We must consider the sound of each hunting material, and it must work for us and not against us.

Advice From Expert Hunters

As you can probably tell, we are big fans of Sitka Gear and the high quality garments they produce. 

Some of our readers have asked about Kuiu Gear, so we put the two to the test.

You can read about our findings by clicking here. 

Kuiu vs Sitka: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing The Best Clothes.

Layering is the key to comfort and safety when on a  hunt, but that doesn’t mean just piling layers of clothing and hoping for the best. There is a method that will lead to success. You want each layer working together as a system to trap heat, resist moisture and protect against the elements.

Base layers are the first layer of clothing that fits right up against your skin. The critical function of the base layer is to wick moisture away from your body, keeping you dry and warm.

The mid-layer supports the base layer, helping trap heat while resisting moisture. Mid-layers are the most flexible of all layers. If needed, you can double up your mid-layer or remove it altogether if you’re overheating. Polyester and merino wool work well as mid-layer fabrics, but nylon is also ideal. Your mid-layer can sometimes end up being an outer layer, so you may want a mid-layer that offers wind and water protection.

The outer layer is your protective shell, the first line of defense against the elements. Outer layers are designed to be durable and repel wind, rain, snow, and anything else nature throws at you, keeping you warm and dry while hunting. Keep weight and “packability” in mind when choosing your outer shell. You may end up stowing it later in the day.

Don't ignore your feet when preparing for a hunt. Make sure you have the best hunting socks that you can afford and don't be afraid to follow the layering philosophy outlined above. A good quality, moisture wicking sock liner can save the day by keeping your feet dry and warm.

FAQs

Do bibs keep you warm?

Yes bibs keep you warm. They do a great job of insulating and holding the heat in from your ankles up to your chest, without allowing the wind to penetrate.

How do you wear hunting bibs?

You step into hunting bibs just like pants and then work them up over your chest. Once you have them pulled up all the way, you reach behind you and pull the suspenders over your shoulders, similar to waders.

Are Sitka Hudson bibs warm?

Yes, Sitka Hudson Bibs are warm. I have worn them in cold, pouring rain as well as below zero temperatures and they kept me warm, dry and comfortable in every condition.

What should I wear under my bibs?

You should wear a high quality, moisture wicking base layer under your bibs to keep you warm while wicking any moisture away from your skin.

Final Thoughts

Deer season is one of those seasons that is unpredictable depending on where you are. We may hunt in a T-shirt today and need thermal underwear the next morning. Hunting bibs are the best protection from cold weather. 

Hunting bibs have come a long way since our grandpa's overalls and coveralls. You remember, they were as thick as a mattress, and the fabric was stiff as a board. Climbing into a tree stand can be really frustrating when you feel like a Michelin or marshmallow man. 

Sitka's performance and quality are worth the investment. with proper care and storage, they will last a lifetime. If you are a lifelong hunter or outdoorsman, you will not regret your purchase. With that being said, you do not have to have the very best gear to have a good hunt.

If you are new to deer hunting and you are on a budget, choose accordingly and find the best bang for your buck. And if you are just getting started and feel overwhelmed, don't be. The most important thing is to get out there and enjoy the sport, taking in the sights, smells, and sounds.

Include your family when possible and pass down your knowledge to your children. Hunting is our way of stopping to smell the roses. We should stop and be grateful for the ability to be outdoors and participate in the sport we love and fill the freezer for our family. It's our time to count our blessings and say a prayer for those not as fortunate as we are.

Stay safe, hunt often, and help continue the tradition. Always leave the outdoors better than you found it.