When it comes to finding the perfect pair of hunting pants, it can feel like a never-ending process, leaving you wanting more every hunting season. No doubt about it, searching for a good pair of hunting pants can be complicated and confusing when you don't know where to begin. Asking the right questions and taking the right approach are the keys to finding that perfect pair of hunting pants.
There are five key elements to consider when looking for a good pair of men's hunting pants. They include functionality, durability, versatility, weight, and fit. Finding the right hunting pants for you can be as easy as checking off these five boxes.
While that might seem simple enough, there are many factors to consider in each category. Let's dive deeper into each of these areas to help you find the best pair of hunting pants for your time in the field.
What to Look For in Men's Hunting Pants
Functionality
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Functionality means finding pants that are practical and serve your purpose. When debating styles of hunting pants, it is essential to know your needs precisely for the pants and what conditions you might encounter while in the field.
You will want to consider the temperatures and weather conditions you may encounter while hunting in the field. As any hunter knows, conditions can change quickly in the field, and a lovely morning can turn into sleeting rain with below-freezing temperatures. Being unprepared is the last thing you want in the field.
Functionality may depend on factors such as, location, season, temperature, and precipitation. Some issues might arise that you can't plan for, but be as prepared as possible.
Our Must-Have Water Repellent
Revivex Durable Water Repellent - Amazon, $18.95
If you hunt in wet and rainy climates, consider waterproof and water-resistant options for your hunting pants. Consider Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treated pants. These will protect you from the elements while maintaining breathability to help you stay dry and warm.
Durability
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After considering the function you need, the next step is finding the level of durability you will need in the field. The last thing you want is to have your hunting pants fail due to a tear or a blowout. This is why durability is critical.
Your search should include hunting pants durable enough to handle the rugged conditions of the field. Consider the conditions and location where you will be hunting. If you are a Western hunter, you will likely encounter rocks, cacti, and other sharp objects on almost every hunt. In the timber, sharp sticks and briars are around every turn. Even if you hunt on the family farm, barbed wire, and other sharp objects, can do as much damage as natural obstacles.
Many companies use more durable materials and construction techniques to make pant seams—and vital areas—even more durable. Look for pants with construction and materials explicitly designed for durability, particularly at the knees, crotch, and seams.
Nobody wants to blow a hunt because they had a pant malfunction. The last thing you want when you are out in the field is to have the crotch seams unravel and come apart while on a stalk. Or try getting into the shooting range of a trophy bull elk when your pants have ripped knees. This is why durability should be high on your list of must-haves in a good pair of hunting pants.
Versatility
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Pant versatility can be a game changer. Pants can be just as versatile as any other piece of hunting equipment. Versatility comes into play when the weather changes at the drop of a hat.
No hunter wants to carry multiple pairs into the field with them in anticipation of weather changes. Finding pants that can meet your needs regardless of the weather is a better option. This may mean searching for pants constructed with materials to keep you dry and warm while also being breathable for those intense hikes or warmer days.
While pants made of breathable materials are always suitable for wicking away moisture, pants should also provide enough insulation to seal in warmth during colder conditions. Some manufacturers have started adding zipper vents, which allow the hunter to open or close them depending on weather conditions. Pants designed with high-end materials that fit these needs might come with a heftier price tag, but having a reliable and versatile pair of pants is well worth the cost.
Another thing to consider is how well your hunting pants can be used when adding layers. Adding base layers or layers over your primary pair of hunting pants can dramatically increase their versatility. Consider this in depth when choosing your pants or evaluating brands that offer layering systems.
Weight
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Weight may not seem like a big deal when it comes to hunting pants, but pants can increase exertion and sap energy if they are too bulky and heavy. Hunting pants that are too light can also have a downside as much as pants that are too hefty. Being too cold from lack of weight can sap energy just as fast as decreasing durability.
Find a good middle ground when it comes to weight. The more insulation, the more weight you will add to your pants. Still, you can keep it at a minimum with high-end insulating materials and good construction.
Weight will also go back to the functionality of your hunt. If you hike, lighter pants will be more practical. If you sit in a tree stand, heavier pants will do well to keep you warm.
The Right Fit
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The fit of the pants might seem like it should be higher on the list of good hunting pants, but you need to ensure you have the features you need first. Therefore, fit comes in a little later. Let's face it, though, finding a good pair of hunting pants that fit great can be a challenge. Do the work and try out as many styles and brands as possible.
Sizes can vary widely from brand to brand, and everybody is built differently. Find what fits you and works best for your hunting style. Pants made for hiking or sitting in a tree stand will have different fits. There is no worse feeling than being constricted on a heavy hike or feeling like you're the Michelin Man in a tree stand with limited mobility.
Trial and error are needed for this. It would be best if you dialed in your fit. You can do this without spending thousands of dollars on pants that you won't end up using. Try them on at the store or as soon as they appear on your porch. Walk around, sit in them, stretch, and bend before removing tags. If they don't immediately feel right, keep searching.
Find the features and fit that work best for you. When you find that pair of hunting pants that hit the spot, you will wonder how you ever hunted without them. Finding the right pants is a game-changer!
