I'm getting some new gear. It's going to get cold as hell during the winter here in Finland (varying from 32 to -13 °F in January and February), at times rain comes in water, at times in sleet or snow. What Sitka gear would you recommend? I thought Stormfront jacket and Timberline pants would work well with good layering but I got no experience on Sitka.
Disclaimer: Never owned it myself. Looked at it first hand a few times. I know guys that swear by it. I think its overpriced.
Check out www.kuiu.com I live and hunt in Alaska so similar weather as what you mention. In addition to the KUIU line I really like my Montbell Thermawrap Parka and Patagonia Micro Puff Pants for the cold days!
My experience also. Tried it on a few times before finally decided on Artic Gear. Like it alot for the warmth, not so much for pocket placement. But at 1/3+ the price I can do without good pocket placement.
I live in Northwestern Montana. We have it cold here but it doesn't stay in the negative digits for more than a few days at a time. I can honestly say that few manufacturers make something that can handle that kind of cold, but for the price you'd pay for Sitka gear, you can get other stuff that does the same thing! Sitka may be the king of the hill now, but that position gets won over by other manufacturers all the time. Save your money. You can find something just as good for less!!
I absolutely love my sitka gear, however I don't own any of the cold weather clothing. Check out Under Armour as well.
People who bag on Sitka are people who have never used it. Period. IMHO it is simply the best out there, par with KUIU. Sure, there are plenty of options for warm clothing out there, but you will look like a marshmallow by the time you are all set. I can easily and physically hunt down to 0 degrees wearing three layers, -20 wearing four layers. I never need an armguard. Sitka gear is clothing that is cut for a bowhunter and tough as nails. I need clothing and gear I can rely on when I'm three miles in chasing elk, Sitka provides that. It's mountaineering clothing with camo in the purest form. It's an investment, not a purchase.
I don't own this gear and have never looked at it. This post though is spot on to other items in the industry. My LW stand and sticks came to mind when reading this. Yes it is expensive, but it is an investment like you stated. It keeps paying for itself everytime I hunt with it. You get ALOT in your purchase. Bottom line is, price is only one factor that goes into the purchase. Sure I could probably buy 6 to 8 stands for the same price, but I would take my single LW stand over 8 others ones any day of the week. Don't let the price alone determine if you buy the gear or not.
Thanks for all your comments. Already placed an order but it's the holiday season and packages get shipped pretty slowly. Propably have to wait next week until I get my gear. KUIU was a new one for me. Looks pretty interesting as well.
