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Base layers are one of the most important layers, based on personal preference you will want at least one of these options. Core Lightweight Short Sleeve, Core Lightweight Long Sleeve, Core Lightweight Hoody, or Heavy Weight Hoody. In addition to the tops the Core Lightweight Bottom and Core Heavy Weight Bottom are designed to be more than just another base layer. The Core Lightweight crew short sleeve, long sleeve and hoody are the foundation that all our SITKA systems are built from. High-performance polyester construction moves moisture through periods of high aerobic activity while drying quickly during low periods spent sitting, glassing, or calling.

The Heavyweight Hoody and bottoms are versatility at its best. This hoody works as an extension of your base layer for hunts in cold weather or worn as outerwear for active early season days. The channeled comfort-stretch fleece insulation retains core warmth while allowing moisture to rapidly move through the system.

Mid Laywers and Insulation are next over your base layers. While some of these serve dual purpose as both a mid-layer or outer layer, you will need to decide if one is better for you and your needs based on how hot you run and what kind of weather conditions you’re looking at facing.
The Kelvin line of jackets such as the Kelvin Lite down, Kelvin Aerolite Jacket and the Kelvin Aerolite Vest are all great jackets for keeping you warm while still managing volume in your pack. The Kelvin Down Lite Jacket is the go-to mid-season piece where warmth and packability are key. Lightweight, compressible 900 fill Primaloft® Gold insulation delivers amazing warmth-to-weight. The jacket packs down and nestles into its own zippered hand pocket.
A fully featured hood offers shelter from the elements so you can stay focused on your target while two zippered hand pockets and a chest pocket securely stow at-hand essentials. If you know you're going to be facing wetter conditions, then the Kelvin Aerolite Jacket and Vest are a better option. This lightweight, compressible jacket maximizes warmth while minimizing bulk. Use it for everything from backcountry hunts and off-season scouting trips to everyday life; it slips comfortably under a shell whenever you need an extra shot of warmth. Synthetic PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation with Cross Core™ technology replicates the aesthetics and performance of down insulation, but with warm-when-wet performance.

Outer shells complete the top of the system. One of the most popular and well-rounded jackets is Sitka’s Jetstream Jacket. One of the original SITKA designs, the Jetstream Jacket was built for active mountain pursuits in cold weather. A workhorse of a softshell, this jacket features strategically located seam lines to shed water while a GORE-TEX INFINIUM with WINDSTOPPER® laminate will stop heat sapping winds while moving sweat and moisture through the system to keep you focused on the hunt. The last piece of the tops is the Dew Point Jacket. The 3-layer GORE-TEX Dew Point Jacket offers lightweight waterproof protection for volatile weather. Minimalist construction features include 20-denier nylon ripstop face with soft GORE® C-KNIT® backer technology for breathable comfort and packability, pit zips for expelling heat, micro-taped seams to reduce weight and zippered pockets that are accessible while wearing a pack belt and Mountain Optics Harness.

Main pants to consider completing the system. The Ascent Pant is the most lightweight and breathable softshell pant that will keep you cool and dry for those hot days charging into the mountains. Advanced 4-way stretch synthetic blend moves with the hunter and stands up to heavy abrasion in the scrub and scree. Mesh-backed pockets deliver extra ventilation, and an internal mesh knee pad pocket provides added protection when field dressing an animal. Timberline pants or Mountain Pants. These softshell pant are the go-to for those tough early season conditions in the backcountry. Timberline’s are constructed with ultra-durable 4-way stretch polyester with double reinforced ripstop nylon knees and seat are both waterproof and breathable. Removable articulated knee pads ensure durability and comfort whether you’re scrambling in the talus of the Rockies, pushing through wet thick under growth or field dressing an animal. The Mountain pants are the same as the Timberlines, they just dont have the waterproof seat or rip stop knees. Lastly is the Dew Point Pant. The3-layer GORE-TEX Dew Point Pant offers waterproof protection when you’re three days in and the clouds turn black. Minimally featured—including micro-taped seams and zero pockets—it’s made from a 20-denier nylon ripstop face with GORE® C-KNIT® backer technology for easy movement and packability in the mountains. Two-way side zips offer easy on/off and venting; the articulated fit won’t tug when you’re navigating rough country or hiking in the rain.

With all the options and product specifications we understand that this is just a guide, everyone might have different needs and wants and well as different hunting conditions. Please feel free to call us or visit us in store and one of our Sitka Gear specialists can help assist you in making sure your system is setup and right for your needs.

For more information please visit www.sitkagear.com

By Brent | May 23rd, 2022