Material – Wool or Thinsulate?
When it comes to habit jackets and coats, one of the most important considerations is the material. Do you want a natural fiber like wool that provides warmth even when wet? Or a synthetic like Thinsulate that is highly insulating but less breathable? Let’s explore the pros and cons of each.
Wool has been used in outerwear for centuries thanks to its natural properties. The fibers trap air between them providing insulation. Yet wool still breathes fairly well, wicking moisture away from the body. Quality wool is also naturally water resistant. Even when wet, wool retains insulating capabilities. The downside is wool can be scratchy for some and requires more care when laundering.
Thinsulate consists of tiny microfibers that form an insulating layer without bulk. This makes it popular for habit jackets that need to be lightweight yet warm. Thinsulate retains loft and insulating value even when compressed. It dries quickly too. However, Thinsulate isn’t as breathable as wool. It also lacks wool’s natural water resistance, so needs to be paired with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating.
For the best balance, look for habit coats that blend wool with Thinsulate. This provides warmth and weather resistance while reducing weight. Ultimately though, consider your intended use. Wool’s natural properties excel in wet cold climates. While Thinsulate excels in dry cold thanks to its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio.
Lining – Quilted or Smooth?
Another key choice is between a smooth or quilted lining. Quilted jackets have stitching that creates insulating air pockets. Smooth linings reduce bulk while retaining warmth. Which is best depends on your needs.
Quilted linings add extra insulation thanks to all those built-in air pockets. They also help retain the loft of insulation like down or Thinsulate. The trade-off is added weight and bulk. Quilting also reduces breathability somewhat.
Smooth linings provide a slimmer, more streamlined fit. They allow for greater freedom of movement which can be beneficial in hunting or hiking Habits. The downside is less insulation. But for milder weather or high-exertion activities, the lighter weight can be an advantage.
Consider when and where you will use your Habit jacket most. Quilted linings excel in cold, dry weather where you need extra insulation. Smooth linings are ideal for milder climates or active pursuits where breathability and range of motion matter.
Pockets – Handwarmers, Chest, Shells?
Practical pockets are a signature feature of quality Habit jackets and coats. What type of pockets do you need? Here are some top options:
- Handwarmer pockets – Insulated side entry pockets to keep hands toasty.
- Chest pockets – Useful for gear like phones, hunting licenses or ammunition.
- Shell pockets – Larger external pockets for game, gloves or other equipment.
- Inner pockets – Discreet interior pockets for securing valuables.
Consider your intended use carefully when choosing pockets. Waterfowl hunters need ample exterior shell pockets for calls, ammo and other gear. Big game hunters may opt for handwarmers and inner pockets. For casual wear, choose what’s most convenient and comfortable for you.
The number, size and placement of pockets impacts convenience, ease of movement and accessibility while wearing your Habit. Try some different styles to see what pocket configuration works best.
Hood – Fixed or Detachable?
Hoods are a vital component for many habit jackets and coats. Do you prefer a fixed hood built into the collar? Or a detachable hood that can be removed?
Fixed hoods ensure you always have head and neck coverage when you need it. The hood is integrated into the jacket for a seamless, low-profile appearance. Downsides include reduced flexibility if weather improves, and potential vision obstruction.
Detachable hoods increase versatility. Remove the hood when not needed for better visibility and mobility. Attach it quickly when conditions deteriorate. The trade-off is potential leakage around the collar and a bulkier look with the hood on.
For frequent cold and wet weather, a fixed hood provides reliable protection. If you’ll be going in and out of inclement conditions, a detachable hood allows customization. Try both types to see which you prefer before choosing a new Habit jacket.
Length – Full or Hip?
Habit jackets come in a variety of lengths. Full-length coats provide more coverage for added warmth. Hip-length jackets allow greater ease of motion. Which should you pick?
Full-length Habits hang around knee level. This provides increased protection from the cold for vulnerable body areas. Longer cut also allows layering over thicker cold weather pants. Just be mindful of mobility restrictions for hunting or hiking.
Hip-length Habits end at the waist or just below. This style maximizes freedom of movement in arms and legs. But the shorter cut means less coverage for warmth. Good options are layering hip Habits over full-cut vests or thick underlayers.
Take your climate and intended activities into account. Cold weather favors the coverage of a full-length Habit. Warmer environments and active use cases benefit from a hip-length cut.
Insulation – Down or Synthetic Fill?
The type of insulation influences the weight, compressibility, warmth and price of your Habit. The main options are natural down or synthetic fills like PrimaLoft.
Down provides unmatched warmth for the weight thanks to superior loft and compressibility. Higher fill powers mean more insulation and warmth. But down loses loft when wet and is pricier.
Synthetic insulation retains insulation value better when compressed or wet. PrimaLoft and Thinsulate mimic down’s loft and warmth at lower cost. But they are heavier and bulkier per ounce of warmth.
Down is ideal for dry cold climates where you can shelter it from moisture. Synthetics excel in wet conditions where maintaining warmth when soaked is critical. Consider your budget and intended use when choosing fill.
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Lining – Quilted or Smooth?
When shopping for a habit jacket or coat, you’ll come across options with either a quilted or smooth lining. Which is best for your needs? Let’s take a look at the key differences.
Quilted linings are created by stitching together two layers of fabric with insulation material in between. This stitching forms baffles or compartments that trap air and provide extra warmth. The downside is added bulk and weight.
Smooth linings lack any quilting or stitching. This creates a thinner, more streamlined profile without reducing mobility. Smooth-lined jackets tend to be lighter overall. But the trade-off is less insulation compared to a quilted lining.
From my experience hunting in habit jackets, a quilted lining excels in frigid conditions where retaining body heat is critical. But for milder weather or highly active pursuits like hiking, a smooth lining can be ideal to prevent overheating.
My buddy James swears by his smooth-lined Filson Tin Cloth Habit for elk season here in Colorado. The mobility helps him stalk through thick timber. I prefer my quilted Woolrich Habit when sitting on stand on frosty mornings awaiting whitetail season back home in Iowa.
Consider when and where you’ll use your habit jacket most. If you run cold and want maximum insulation, choose a quilted lining. If breathability and range of motion are more important, go smooth-lined. Trying on different styles can help you determine which feels best for your needs.
Pockets – Handwarmers, Chest, Shells?
An abundance of practical pockets is one hallmark of a good habit coat or jacket. But which configuration is right for you? Let’s explore some top options:
- Handwarmer Pockets – Insulated side entry pockets to keep hands warm and toasty.
- Chest Pockets – Handy for stashing small essentials like phones, licenses or ammo.
- Shell Pockets – Large external pockets for gear like calls, gloves or harvested birds/game.
- Interior Pockets – Discreet inner pockets for securing valuables or permits.
I’d recommend considering your intended use carefully when choosing pockets. Duck hunters need quick access to calls and other gear, so ample shell pockets are ideal. Big game hunters may prefer handwarmers and interior security pockets.
The versatile Filson Tin Cloth Habit Jacket has the perfect balance in my opinion. It boasts four exterior pockets with snap closures plus two internal pockets for maps, licenses and more. The reinforced bottom ensures durability when packing heavy loads.
If casual wear is more your speed, prioritize comfort and convenience. Try some different pocket configurations until you find the perfect fit for your everyday activities.
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Pockets – Handwarmers, Chest, Shells?
When it comes to selecting the perfect habit jacket or coat for staying warm during chilly hunts, one of the most critical factors to consider is pockets. After all, what good is a quality hunting coat if it doesn’t have the right pockets to meet your needs in the field or on the stand?
Handwarmer pockets are an absolute must for any good habit jacket. These pockets should be large enough to fit a pair of gloved hands and lined with a soft, insulating material. Look for handwarmer pockets that are diagonally cut with wide openings for easy access. The last thing you want is to fumble around trying to get your frozen fingers into tiny pocket openings.
In addition to handwarmers, look for a habit coat with both internal and external chest pockets. Internal zippered or button pockets are great for safely storing gear like phones, rangefinders, or extra ammo. External chest pockets with snap enclosures provide quick access to items you may frequently need during your hunt like calls, lip balm, or rations.
Shell pockets on the exterior of the jacket are also incredibly useful. These bellow, pleat, or cargo-style pockets give you ample room to carry small essentials or to warm up your hands. For hunters who use handheld warmers, a set of shell pockets to contain them is a welcome feature.
When evaluating the pockets on any habit jacket, make sure they are reinforced and durable. You’ll be loading them up frequently, so the stitching and fabric need to stand up to regular wear and tear. Pockets with Velcro, snap, or zipper closures are preferred over open tops that could allow valuable items to fall out unnoticed.
Insulation Type and Fill Power
The level of warmth provided by your habit coat will depend greatly on the insulation type and fill power. Natural down insulation still ranks as one of the best insulators ounce for ounce. The fill power of down refers to the loft and warmth it provides – the higher the number, the better. 600-fill down is suitable for most hunting purposes, but opt for 800-fill or higher for extreme cold.
Synthetic insulations like PrimaLoft are a good down alternative if avoiding animal products is a priority or if you hunt in wet conditions frequently. Synthetics insulate even when soaked and tend to be more affordable than premium down.
In general, the higher the insulation fill power, the lighter and more compressible the habit jacket will be. Just be mindful that you don’t sacrifice adequate insulation simply to save a few ounces of weight.
Windproof and Water Resistant Outer Shell
The outer fabric shell plays a crucial role in blocking wind and repelling water to lock in warmth. Look for habit coats made of tightly woven, durable materials like nylon or polyester ripstop. For the most rugged and weather-resistant shell, choose a jacket with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish.
The noise level of the outer shell is also worth evaluating. Silent outer fabric allows you to draw, shoulder arms, or adjust your position without spooking nearby game. Quiet technical fabrics like Gore Windstopper or PrimaLoft Silence help eliminate distracting sounds.
Lastly, consider how well the shell blocks scent. Features like activated carbon lining or scent control technology prevent your human odor from alerting animals and ruining your hunt.
Adjustable Hood and Cuffs
Having the ability to seal out drafts and seal in warmth through adjustable openings is clutch. Look for a habit coat with an attached hood that cinches down over your head and can be tightened around the face. Some coats also include a removable hood for greater versatility.
Elastic or Velcro cuff closures allow you to seal the sleeves over your gloves and prevent air leaks up the sleeves. Some coats take adjustability a step further with drawcords at the waist or hem that customize the fit.
Size and Layering Capacity
A hunting coat needs room for plenty of insulating layers underneath while still offering a comfortable range of motion. Size up if you plan to wear thick base or mid-layers beneath your habit jacket.
Articulated elbows and gusseted underarms allow ease of movement for drawing bows or rifles. Loose or relaxed fits offer room to layer while slim and athletic fits reduce bulk and promote stealth.
Take the climate and season into consideration too. In bitter cold weather, sizing up ensures you can stack on the base and insulation layers needed to stay warm. However, a more trim silhouette works better in the marginal temperatures of early season.
Effective Camo Patterns
Hunting coats utilize a range of camo patterns to help you blend into natural surroundings. Popular options like Realtree, Mossy Oak, Kryptek, and Sitka mimic tree bark, leaves, branches, and forest floors to conceal movement.
Consider both the environment and season you’ll be hunting in. For whitetail woods, patterns with more brown and black blend best. Open terrain or prairie hunts benefit from lighter shades of tan, grass, or wheat prints. Snow camo naturally works best once winter weather moves in.
Fluorescent blaze orange accents are also critical during rifle season for visibility and safety. Look for habit jackets with reversible or convertible blaze orange options to adapt as regulations require.
When choosing the perfect habit coat, consider all these essential features from ideal pockets to proper insulation and camo. With field-ready performance and features, you’ll stay comfortable and concealed all season long.
Hood – Fixed or Detachable?
When selecting the perfect habit jacket or coat for hunting, one key feature to evaluate is the hood. Should you choose a fixed hood that’s permanently attached or a detachable hood that can be removed? There are pros and cons to each option.
A fixed hood provides constant protection from the elements. You don’t have to worry about losing or forgetting it at home. Fixed hoods tend to fit and adjust better around your head since they are designed specifically for that jacket model. They also seal in warmth more efficiently when cinched tight.
However, some hunters find fixed hoods restrictive. They limit your peripheral vision and ability to shoulder a rifle. The hood may blow back while riding in an ATV or pick-up truck. You can’t remove it when the weather is mild or you need greater visibility and range of motion.
This is where a detachable hood offers more versatility. You can zip or button it on as needed when the weather deteriorates. Take it off on fair weather hunts or when you need maximum sightlines. Detachable hoods do allow more customization.
The downside is that removable hoods are easier to lose and don’t always fit as seamlessly over your head. Since they are designed to work across jacket models, the fit is not tailored. There may be more gaps for heat loss or precipitation to sneak through.
Hunters who run hot may find a fixed hood causes them to overheat, while those who chill easy benefit from the constant protection. One option is a jacket with a hood that rolls away or stows into the collar when not needed. This provides better coverage than fully removing the hood.
Here are a few other factors to help decide between fixed and detachable hoods on a habit coat:
- Climate – Colder regions benefit more from a fixed hood, while temperate climates allow a detachable hood.
- Season – Early season hunts may call for a removable hood during warmer weather, while late season hunts favor the constant protection of a fixed hood.
- Activity – Stalking hunters who are mobile prefer the versatility of a detachable hood, while stand hunters benefit from a fixed hood in one position.
- Headwear – If you’ll be wearing a beanie or balaclava, a fixed hood may be too tight or restrictive.
- Safety – Blaze orange hoods for dangerous game or rifle seasons should remain fixed for constant visibility.
There are also a few hybrid options on some hunting jackets. You may find a zip-off hood that detaches fully or a hood with a partial detachable mask for greater visibility. Test out the hood design and function in person when shopping for a habit coat.
The right choice comes down to your specific needs and hunting scenarios. Just be sure that whatever option you choose, the hood fits comfortably over your headgear, seals out the elements, and allows adequate range of motion for safe hunting. Stay warm and concealed without compromising your vision or mobility.
While the hood is a central feature, don’t forget to evaluate the other essentials like pockets, insulation, outer shell, fit, camo pattern, and adjustability. Address all aspects that affect comfort, concealment and performance in the field. With a dialed-in habit jacket, you can focus on the hunt rather than the chill.
Length – Full or Hip?
When it comes to picking the ideal habit jacket or coat for hunting, one of the key considerations is length. Do you go for a full-length coat or a shorter hip-length option? Evaluating your needs and hunting scenarios will help determine the best choice.
Full-length hunting coats provide maximum coverage and warmth. They protect more of your body from the elements and seal in heat better with less chance for drafts. Sitting for long periods in a treestand or blind is more comfortable with a jacket extending down to your thighs or knees.
The trade-off is that longer coats can impede movement. They limit your range of motion when lifting your arms to shoot or climb. All that fabric can get in the way or get snagged when hiking through brush. Full length also adds bulk that may hinder stalking animals.
This is where hip-length habit jackets offer greater versatility for more active hunts. They provide plenty of core warmth while leaving your hips and legs freer to walk and crouch. Lighter overall weight helps keep you agile and mobile.
However, short jackets do sacrifice protection from the cold. There’s greater exposure around your waist that can lead to heat loss. Sitting for hours may chill your extremities more rapidly without the extra length to seal in warmth.
Here are some factors to help determine the ideal habit coat length for your needs:
- Type of hunt – Stalking and spot-and-stalk benefit from hip length mobility, while blind/stand hunting favors full length warmth.
- Late season hunts demand more coverage, early season allows more freedom.
- Milder weather permits shorter length, bitter cold demands maximum coverage.
- Mobile hunters need less fabric, stationary hunters need more insulation.
- Taller hunters can size up for full length, shorter hunters drown in excess fabric.
There are also some design features that add versatility to hunting jackets of any length. Looking for the following can maximize usefulness across changing conditions:
- Two-way zippers – Allow zipping up from bottom for more ventilation.
- Adjustable drawcords – Customize hem length and seal out drafts.
- Partial bib or drop tail – Extend back coverage when needed.
- Layering compatibility – Works with base/mid layers of differing lengths.
Evaluate your personal hunting style, local climate, and seasonality to choose the habit coat length that suits you best. There’s no universally “right” option. The key is finding the fit and coverage that lets you move freely while retaining warmth when it counts.
Of course, length is just one piece of the puzzle. Be sure to also dial in the essential features like ideal pockets, insulation, shell fabric, camo pattern and adjustability. With a holistic approach, you’ll find the hunting coat that exceeds your needs in the field.
Insulation – Down or Synthetic Fill?
When selecting the perfect habit jacket or coat for staying warm in the field, one of the most important choices is insulation type. Do you go with natural down fill or synthetic insulation? Evaluating the pros and cons of each will help determine the best option for your needs.
Down insulation still reigns supreme in terms of warmth for the weight and compressibility. The fluffy clusters trap air efficiently to retain heat. Higher fill powers (700-800+) provide superior loft and insulation value. Down is also very lightweight and packs down small.
The drawbacks are that down loses loft and insulation value when wet. It can take a long time to dry out fully. Down also requires special washing and care to maintain performance. For hunters in wet climates, down may not be the best pick.
This is where synthetic insulations have some key advantages. Manufactured fibers like PrimaLoft mimic down with thermal efficiency, low weight and packability. Even when soaked, synthetics retain insulating capacity much better than wet down.
On the downside, synthetics don’t quite match the featherlight warmth-to-weight ratio of premium down. They tend to be bulkier and don’t compress as small. Over time, synthetic fibers can break down and lose loft.
Here are some factors to help choose between down and synthetic fill in a habit jacket:
- Climate – Wet regions benefit from synthetic’s performance when damp.
- Compressibility – Down wins for light weight and packability.
- Odor resistance – Synthetics hold fewer odors.
- Maintenance – Synthetics easier to wash and care for.
- Allergies – Synthetics avoid potential down allergies.
- Cost – Down costs more than synthetic equivalents.
There are also some hybrid insulation options worth considering. Combining down and synthetic panels places insulation strategically. Synthetic insulation layers at the top and bottom of the jacket resist moisture while down at the core retains maximum warmth.
PrimaLoft Gold Insulation blends fine down fibers with synthetic for the best of both. It offers excellent wet weather performance, compressibility and warmth. This innovative insulation provides a versatile option.
Evaluate your budget, expected field conditions, and performance priorities to decide on the ideal insulation fill for your habit coat. Test garments side-by-side when possible to judge factors like warmth, weight, compression and moisture resistance.
While insulation is critical, also be sure to dial in the other essential features like hand pockets, hood design, outer shell, proper fit and effective camo. Taking a comprehensive approach will lead you to the hunting coat that meets all your needs in the field.
Waterproofing – DWR Coating or Membrane?
When picking out the perfect habit jacket or coat, you’ll want to consider the waterproofing technology used. Does it have a DWR coating or waterproof membrane? Evaluating the performance of each will help you stay dry in the field.
A DWR (durable water repellent) finish is a chemical coating applied to the outer fabric shell. It causes water to bead up and roll off the surface rather than soak in. DWR coatings are affordable, breathable, and lightweight.
However, DWRs do wear off over time and require reapplication. While water resistant, fabric coated in DWR is not fully waterproof. Prolonged wetness or very heavy rain can lead to leakage through the jacket.
This is where waterproof membranes provide superior water protection. Made of materials like Gore-Tex or eVent, these membranes have pores small enough to block liquid water while still allowing sweat vapor to escape.
Jackets with waterproof membranes are completely impenetrable to moisture. They keep you dryer for longer in extreme wet conditions. But membranes add expense, weight, and can inhibit airflow and breathability.
Here are some factors to help decide between DWR and membrane technologies on a habit coat:
- Cost – DWR coatings are much more affordable
- Weight – Membranes add more weight
- Breathability – DWRs are more breathable
- Severe weather protection – Membranes keep you drier
- Care and maintenance – DWRs require more re-application
One option is a hybrid approach with both DWR coating and waterproof membrane strategically placed. Use the membrane on upper body high-exposure areas and DWR on lower body for breathability.
Consider your budget, expected weather conditions, and physical activity level when choosing the ideal waterproofing for a habit jacket. If mostly used in light rain, a DWR coating should suffice. For monsoon-like hunting conditions, opt for the assurance of a waterproof membrane.
While water protection is key, don’t overlook other essential factors like optimal pockets, insulation type, camo pattern, noise reduction, and range of motion. Taking a comprehensive approach will lead you to the perfect waterproof hunting coat.
Brands – Filson, Barbour or Orvis?
When shopping for the perfect habit jacket or coat, you’ll come across some well-known outdoor brands like Filson, Barbour and Orvis. But which one offers the best quality and performance for hunting?
Filson has a long heritage stretching back to the Klondike Gold Rush. Their rugged and reliable hunting coats are made in the USA from durable fabrics like tin cloth oil finish or Shelter Cloth. Filson offers full-length duster style coats or shorter packer jackets. The brand is known for quality craftsmanship and functional designs.
Barbour offers heritage English styling with countryside inspiration. Their waxed cotton and corduroy hunting coats provide robust weather protection. Barbour is famous for the durability of their waxed jackets. They specialize in classic country and field designs.
Orvis pioneered much of today’s technical hunting gear and apparel. Their coats use innovative fabrics like GORE-TEX and PrimaLoft Silver insulation. Orvis fuses field-ready performance with versatile aesthetics in their hunting jacket collection. The brand offers a hunt-focused product line.
Here’s a quick comparison of key factors between the brands:
- Filson – Durable tin cloth or Shelter Cloth,USA made quality
- Barbour – Waxed cotton, countryside heritage styling
- Orvis – Technical GORE-TEX and PrimaLoft materials, hunt-specific focus
Consider where you’ll be hunting and your activity level. Filson and Barbour leaning traditional may suit walking hunts, while Orvis technical designs accommodate high exertion. Also factor in climate conditions and required weather protection.
Fit is another differentiator. Filson and Orvis have a trimmer, more tailored fit while Barbour leans roomy for layering. Make sure to try on jackets to evaluate mobility and comfort.
Ultimately, the “best” brand comes down to personal preference. Try on coats from each brand, evaluating quality, function and value. Filson, Barbour and Orvis all make exceptional hunting outerwear with similar price points. Choose the brand that aligns closest with your needs and style.
While brand matters, also be sure to evaluate essential features like effective camo, proper insulation, adequate pocket space, and weatherproofing. Taking a holistic approach will lead you to the perfect habit jacket or coat.
Style – Classic or Modern Fit?
When choosing the perfect habit jacket or coat for your hunts, an important decision is whether to go with a classic or modern fit. Which style lines up best with your needs and preferences?
Classic-fit hunting coats offer roominess to accommodate layering underneath. They have a boxy, rectangular silhouette with drop tail hem lengths. This provides maximum warmth by sealing in body heat.
The roomier cut also allows unrestricted movement for shooting, climbing or hiking. But all the extra fabric can be bulky and catch on brush. The looser style isn’t ideal for more active hunts.
Modern or athletic-fit habit jackets trim down the boxiness for a more contoured shape. They taper at the waist with shorter lengths. This showcases the form while reducing bulk and excess fabric.
The tailored cut enables greater mobility and less noise while stalking game. But the slimmer fit leaves less space for insulating layers underneath. You may need to size up to accommodate layering.
Here are some factors to help choose between classic and modern habit coat fits:
- Activity level – Mobile hunts favor modern, stationary hunts suit classic.
- Layering needs – Classic leaves room for more insulation.
- Mobility – Modern allows greater freedom of movement.
- Build type – Larger frames suit classic, athletic builds suit modern.
- Concealment – Trim modern fits integrate better with gear.
Try on both classic and modern fits to see what accommodates your range of motion and layering preferences. Move your arms into shooting positions to test roominess.
Also consider modifying features to improve fit. Expandable side gussets add movement freedom to classic fits. Velcro cuffs and adjustable hems customize modern fits.
While the trend favors more modern tailored shapes, classic-fit hunting coats still have their place. Choose the silhouette that complements your build, hunting style and environment. Proper fit enhances performance, comfort and concealment.
In addition to style, dial in key features like effective camo, weatherproofing, adequate insulation and storage. Your habit jacket needs to check all the boxes for an optimal hunting experience.
Color – Olive, Tan or Camo?
When selecting the ideal habit jacket or coat for hunting, one of the key considerations is color. Do you go with a solid shade like olive or tan? Or choose a camouflage print instead? Factor in your environment and season when choosing.
Traditonal olive green is a wardrobe staple color for any outdoorsman. This versatile, neutral tone blends well into a variety of settings from forests to fields. Olive also pairs easily with other shades when layering.
Tan and khaki coats complement open terrains like prairies or deserts. These earthy hues mimic dry grasses and foliage. Tan works year-round but excels in early season warmth.
Camouflage-printed jackets utilize shapes and textures that disappear against nature. Popular camo patterns like Realtree and Mossy Oak break up your human outline. Camo coats obviously provide the best concealment for hunters.
Here are some factors that can help guide your color choice:
- Environment – Olive suits wooded regions, tan fits open land.
- Season – Olive and tan for early season, camo for late season.
- Activity – Camo best for stationary hunting, solid colors allow more mobility.
- Purpose – Target shooting permits solid colors, hunting demands camo.
- Pairing – Olive and tan layer better with other garments.
Another approach is choosing a reversible habit coat with camo on one side and a solid alternative on the other. This allows quickly adapting to changing conditions or regulations. Having both camo and solid color options maximizes versatility.
Consider your specific hunting needs and locations when choosing a shade. Olive and tan work fine for walkabout hunting or shooting sports. Serious hunters disappear best with properly matched camo patterns.
Of course, color/pattern is just one aspect of finding the perfect coat. Also evaluate essential technical features like weather resistance, insulation, fit, and storage capacity. The right habit jacket ticks all the boxes for an optimal hunting experience.
Price – Budget or Investment Buy?
When shopping for the perfect habit jacket or coat, an obvious factor is price. Do you go for a budget-friendly option or invest more for premium performance and longevity? Striking the right balance for your needs is key.
Affordable hunting coats from brands like Gamehide offer solid performance at a fraction of the cost of big names. Less expensive options utilize cheaper materials and construction but provide good basic protection.
The trade-off is that budget coats won’t have all the technical innovations and refinements found in premium brands. They tend to wear out and require replacing sooner as well. Still, inexpensive jackets can be a smart choice for younger or new hunters.
Investing more money on companies like Sitka, Filson or Orvis gets you best-in-class materials and cutting-edge features. The craftsmanship and durability is noticeably higher. These jackets last season after season with proper care.
Of course, premium price tags put these coats out of reach for many. Determining your budget constraints along with expected longevity helps strike the right balance.
Here are helpful strategies for making the financial decision on a habit jacket:
- Buy the best you can reasonably afford
- Compare prices across brands for features that matter
- Calculate “cost per wear” over the jacket’s lifespan
- Invest more for extreme conditions or frequent use
- Take proper care to extend coat life
With diligent research, you can often find sales or deals on premium brands to get outstanding quality at a significant discount. Going a model year older also saves money.
Ultimately, let your budget and hunting frequency guide you to the ideal balance of quality and value in a habit coat. Spending a bit more upfront ensures you get the performance you need for seasons to come.
Purpose – Hunting, Hiking or Casual Wear?
When selecting a habit jacket or coat, think about how you plan to use it. Will it primarily be for hunting, outdoor recreation like hiking, or casual around-town wear? Your intended use case should guide your choice.
For hunting-specific coats, look for technical performance features like waterproof membranes, scent control, and camo patterns that perfectly match your environment. Mobility and noise reduction are also vital for hunting.
Outdoor recreation jackets prioritize breathability, freedom of movement, and abrasion resistance. Hiking-focused coats also incorporate visibility features and storage options.
Casual coats emphasize aesthetics, versatility, and everyday comfort. They lean more lifestyle than technical. Urban coats focus on insulation warmth and weather protection over field performance.
Here are key factors for each main purpose:
- Hunting – Scent control, camo matching habitat, DWR protection, PrimaLoft insulation
- Hiking – Breathable fabric, athletic fit, abrasion-resistant shell, pit zips
- Casual – Stylish heritage look, wool blend fabric, relaxed fit, easy care
The ideal habit coat meets the performance requirements of your primary intended activity while retaining enough versatility to serve multiple roles.
For example, a technical hunting jacket also works for hiking trips during off season. Or a lifestyle field coat can pull double duty as urban outerwear. Having a dual-purpose coat expands your use cases.
Consider when, where and how you’ll use your habit jacket the majority of the time. Hunting and hiking in remote areas call for purpose-built gear, while in-town wear permits more flexibility.
Keeping your main activity in mind while still evaluating essential features will lead you to the optimal balance of purpose-built performance and versatility in a habit coat.
Ventilation – Back Vents or Underarm Gussets?
Proper ventilation is essential in a habit jacket or coat to prevent overheating. But what’s better, back vents or underarm gussets? Understanding the pros and cons helps choose the right solution.
Back vents allow air exchange along the spine to release heat and moisture build-up. They run vertically from hem to collar. Dual back vents provide maximum airflow circulation through the coat.
However, back vents may flap open creating unwanted noise in the field. They also expose a potential gap for cold air when bending over or holding a rifle. Back vents optimize ventilation for stationary activity.
Underarm gussets function by increasing mobility and range of motion. The fabric panels minimize fabric bunching across the shoulders and arms. This enables freer arm movement for improved airflow.
Yet underarm gussets don’t provide direct airflow channels like back vents. The ventilation relies solely on your body movement. Gussets also add manufacturing complexity and expense.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best cooling method:
- Activity level – Mobile hunting benefits from gussets, stationary from vents.
- Noise – Back vents can flap loudly.
- Weather protection – Vents may allow precipitation inside.
- Layering – Gussets accommodate more layers underneath.
The ideal solution may be combining both methods. Underarm gussets allow freedom of movement while back vents provide dedicated air exhaust. This balances mobility and direct cooling power.
Evaluate when you’re most likely to overheat during pursuits like hiking into position or sitting in wait. Prioritize the cooling method that best matches your exertion level and activity.
Adequate ventilation enhances comfort and reduces moisture alongside other key factors like breathable fabric, hydration accessibility and proper insulation regulation. Keeping your habit jacket’s climate control dialed in enables staying focused on the hunt.
Closures – Buttons, Zippers or Snaps?
When choosing the ideal habit jacket or coat, pay attention to the type of closures used. Buttons, zippers and snaps each have advantages and disadvantages for hunting performance.
Buttons provide a classic look and are silent to operate. However, they can be tedious to maneuver, especially with gloved hands. Buttons also don’t seal out the elements as tightly.
Zipper closures make donning and removing coats much easier. Zippers create a tighter seal against wind and weather. But they add noise and bulk. Exposed zippers can snag and break over time.
Snaps offer quick, quiet and secure closure. The simple fastening prevents fabric bunching. Snaps are also durable and low profile. The drawback is reduced adjustability compared to zippers.
Here are some factors to help decide the right closure type:
- Ease of use – Zippers fastest, buttons slowest.
- Weather sealing – Zippers best, buttons worst.
- Noise – Snaps silent, zippers noisy.
- Bulk – Snaps slimmest, zippers bulkiest profile.
- Durability – Snaps and buttons outlast zippers.
The ideal balance features a zippered front complemented by snap or button closures at key points. This allows easy on/off along with silent and secure fastening at collar, cuffs, pockets and hood.
Consider your hunting environs and conditions as well. Wet climates and brushy terrain favor snaps and buttons to avoid snags. Exposed open country permits noisier but faster zipper closures.
Test closures wearing hunting gloves to evaluate real-world use. Rate how noise, bulk, speed and weather sealing affect your experience. The right combo balances function, practicality and versatility.
While closure type plays a role, also evaluate critical factors like optimal insulation, proper fit, adequate storage and effective camouflage. The perfect habit coat brings everything together seamlessly.
Sizing – Regular, Tall or Big/Small?
Finding the right size is critical when choosing the perfect habit jacket or coat. Do you need a regular, tall/long or big/small size? Evaluating your body type and fit preferences helps get the ideal coat dimensions.
Regular sizes fit the majority of men at average proportions. They come in numeric sizes like small, medium or large. Regular sizes allow layering mobility without excessive fabric.
However, regular sizes only work if you have average arm and torso length. For taller or shorter torsos, look for tall/long or big/small sizing.
Tall/long sizes add length without increasing width. They provide coverage for longer torsos and arms. Shorter big/small sizes minimally shrink regular dimensions.
Here are some sizing selection tips:
- Measure your arm length and torso to determine optimal coat length.
- Try on different sizes and move your arms to test range of motion.
- Size up if between regular sizes or needing more layering room.
- Take into account potential mid-layer garments worn underneath.
- Select tall/long if sleeves too short, big/small if regular too baggy.
Ideally, the habit coat should extend past your waist with sleeves covering your wrist bone. Snug cuffs and hems prevent air gaps.
There is some personal preference too – some hunters prefer roomier coats while others favor a trimmer profile. Test different sizes to see what allows you the best movement.
Dialing in the right dimensions ensures your coat layers properly and allows full mobility – two key ingredients for staying effective in the field. Take the time to get the optimal tailored fit.