softshell recommendation

muleymaddness · Dec 26, 2013

Looking for recommendations on softshells. Obviously I want it versatile as possible as far as camo pattern goes. Wind resistant, water resistant. Hood would be nice but not a requirement.

I'm looking at the following, but open to suggestions:

Kuiu guide jacket
Sitka Jetstream jacket
Core4element Element jacket
Under Armour Ridge Reaper Infrared jacket

Pants will be next, so that's a consideration too when looking at jackets...

So far I'm leaning towards the UA. It seems like they have the most options at the most reasonable prices to complete the "system".

SLIVER · Dec 26, 2013

I have the Kuiu Guide pants and jacket, and can't say enough good about them. Very comfortable and I love the Vias camo.

}}-SLIVER-->

Ryry · Dec 31, 2013

Kuiu. I have the guide pants and a chugach jacket.love there product.
Ryan

BigSurArcher · Jan 1, 2014

What will your intended uses and temp range be? If backpack hunting, have you explored the option of a 3-layer hard shell in combo with a puffy?

Todd H
KUIU

muleymaddness · Jan 1, 2014

No, not necessarily backpack hunting. I'm looking for this next year primarily, which will be Colorado mule deer in November and Colorado elk in early October. One or the other, I'm not sure.

Which Kuiu pattern do you guys like best? Or should I go with a solid?

440sixpack · Jan 1, 2014

I have Sitka and Kuiu, I like both but I think Kuiu is a step above.

I like the Verde, but I think the camo pattern you use means more to you than to a deer or elk. go with what you like the looks of best.

Stay thirsty my friends

kk · Jan 1, 2014

Both Sitka and Kuiu are real good. I don't think you can go wrong with either. They are both hard to get because they are sold out most the time. I would go with the one you can get the best deal on. I also like the Sitka Jet stream lite.

BeanMan · Jan 1, 2014

I've got both the Kuiu Attack pant and the Sitka Ascent pant. The attack pants are much better. The thigh zips/vent are excellent and they don't keep ripping out at the crotch like the Sitka's keep doing.

jims · Jan 10, 2014

What ever rain jacket you buy make sure it has pitzips. Ever since I bought my Sitka and Marmot precip jackets with pitzips I'll never buy another rain jacket without them. My Sitka 90 jackets also have them.

Gunnie3035 · Jan 16, 2014

I feel like Sitka and Kuiu are a step above the other brands. And they are priced a step above as well.

I have the jetstream and guide jackets. Both great pieces. If weight is important the Kuiu wins hands down. The jetstream is a little more wind resistant but the guide is a little more water resistant. Can't go wrong with either one. Kuiu is probably a better value for the money if paying retail.

I have the attack pant, mountain pant, and ascent pant. The attack and mountain pant are comparable while the ascent is more of a light weight version. IMO the attack would be the ultimate hunting trouser if it had knee pads. The mountain pant is great too but the weight is significantly higher even without the knee pads.

HardcoreOutdoor · Jan 19, 2014

I would recommend the Sitka Gear. Kuiu is good and less expensive because there is no retailer involved but I prefer Gore-Tex to Toray. You can't beat the Gore-Tex history, warranty and service.

Remember the two companies share a common beginning so you would expect them to be somewhat similar and they are but Sitka is the best in the business right now. In fact, the Sitka Gear line is so fricking good top to bottom it isn't even close. Most of the Sitka stuff is also available in solid colors. UA and Core don't even figure into consideration unless celebrity endorsement (UA) means something to you.

Wade
www.HardcoreOutdoor.com