Black Friday: Cold weather jacket

[KyleinMN]

Temps are dropping here in Minnesota and I've been looking for a late-season, cold weather jacket primarily for treestand deer hunting. I think Black Friday sales might best opportunity to score a deal and was looking for some opinions. Packability isn't as much of a concern although less bulk is obviously better especially for bow hunting so I've been comparing the different insulation types. Definitely needs to be windproof, and waterproof or at least water resistant and quiet. Here is what I'm looking at so far, I'd be buying it sight unseen most likely so any input is appreciated. Trying to stay at $250 or less which eliminates the Sitka Incinerator which is probably what I'd go with otherwise, Kuiu is also out.

• First Lite Sanctuary 2.0: Discontinued item but brought back for BF. On sale for $228. I've read that it's quite, windproof but appears to be only water resistant instead of waterproof. Some reviews say it's kind of bulky and I think that might be due to a lower grade insulation vs something like Primaloft Gold which supposedly can offer the same warmth with less material. 200g of 37.5 synthetic insulation in the body. 160g of 37.5 synthetic insulation in the sleeves/hood

• Kryptek Aegis: $189 Not much info on the forums for this one compared to FL/Sitka but claims to be windproof, waterproof and uses Primaloft insulation (silver??) meaning less bulky. 100GR in the body/hood and 60GR in the arms.

• Asio Late Season Jacket: On sale for $216. Uses Primaloft insulation but doesn't say how many grams in the description. I emailed their CS to ask about the differences with their current Heavyweight Jacket with 180 grams of PrimaLoft Gold for $380. I think the late season was the earlier version maybe. No hood..

I think the above options would probably fit in the upper/midgrade options but I've also been looking at some cheaper options. I've never owned any premium gear so I doubt these are in the same league for noise/warmth/bulk/durability/fit but maybe I'd be happy with one of these cheaper ones??

• ArticShield Classic Elite Parka. $78. Waterproof and windproof, inexpensive and made in Minnesota instead of Asia. Looks like a more traditional fit vs the athletic looking bowhunting specific jackets and not sure how warm it is but saw some posts claiming it's well made. Not sure if it's noisy though which could be a deal breaker.

• RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Parka from Cabelas. Going on sale for $100 for BF. Waterproof and windproof, Thermolite Insulation: 200-gram in the torso, 150-gram in the sleeves, Some reviews say it's to noisy for bowhunting though..

I looked at the Scentlock fortress but no sales so it'd be the most expensive and lots of people say it's to noisy so that one is out. Huntworth Matterhorn is $175: no hood and 60g polyfill in the body so maybe a lesser choice?

What would you go with given those options and price point? If I'm missing any let me know!

Thanks

 

[nobody]

• RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Parka from Cabelas. Going on sale for $100 for BF. Waterproof and windproof, Thermolite Insulation: 200-gram in the torso, 150-gram in the sleeves, Some reviews say it's to noisy for bowhunting though..

I bought one of these the first year I went to Colorado for 3rd season mule deer. Was kind of a last minute, pick up whatever is available kind of thing. That year was low single digits with wind chill putting us well below freezing every day. That was the single greatest gear investment I made that year, and I would buy it again in a heartbeat. My dad went and bought one the day after we got home because he froze the whole time we were out there. It’s crazy warm, too much for most hunts, but incredibly high quality for the price. I’m far from a BP/Cabela’s fan, but that coat represents an incredible piece of gear at an amazing price.

FWIW, they run about a full size big. I’m an XL usually, and have this coat in a large and it has plenty of room.

I would buy again at full price. On sale for $100, it’s a no brainer.

 

[sage1]

I like first lite Solitude, not as bulky as sanctuary, I think it's on sale also

 

[Wheels]

Sitka Fanatic jacket is hard to beat.

 

[ThorM465]

I really like the First Lite Uncompahgre Foundry Jacket. I used it for the first time for WY Elk Rifle season this year where it only got really cold a couple of times. It's on sale right now.

 

[ForlohFamily]

Temps are dropping here in Minnesota and I've been looking for a late-season, cold weather jacket primarily for treestand deer hunting. I think Black Friday sales might best opportunity to score a deal and was looking for some opinions. Packability isn't as much of a concern although less bulk is obviously better especially for bow hunting so I've been comparing the different insulation types. Definitely needs to be windproof, and waterproof or at least water resistant and quiet. Here is what I'm looking at so far, I'd be buying it sight unseen most likely so any input is appreciated. Trying to stay at $250 or less which eliminates the Sitka Incinerator which is probably what I'd go with otherwise, Kuiu is also out.

• First Lite Sanctuary 2.0: Discontinued item but brought back for BF. On sale for $228. I've read that it's quite, windproof but appears to be only water resistant instead of waterproof. Some reviews say it's kind of bulky and I think that might be due to a lower grade insulation vs something like Primaloft Gold which supposedly can offer the same warmth with less material. 200g of 37.5 synthetic insulation in the body. 160g of 37.5 synthetic insulation in the sleeves/hood

• Kryptek Aegis: $189 Not much info on the forums for this one compared to FL/Sitka but claims to be windproof, waterproof and uses Primaloft insulation (silver??) meaning less bulky. 100GR in the body/hood and 60GR in the arms.

• Asio Late Season Jacket: On sale for $216. Uses Primaloft insulation but doesn't say how many grams in the description. I emailed their CS to ask about the differences with their current Heavyweight Jacket with 180 grams of PrimaLoft Gold for $380. I think the late season was the earlier version maybe. No hood..

I think the above options would probably fit in the upper/midgrade options but I've also been looking at some cheaper options. I've never owned any premium gear so I doubt these are in the same league for noise/warmth/bulk/durability/fit but maybe I'd be happy with one of these cheaper ones??

• ArticShield Classic Elite Parka. $78. Waterproof and windproof, inexpensive and made in Minnesota instead of Asia. Looks like a more traditional fit vs the athletic looking bowhunting specific jackets and not sure how warm it is but saw some posts claiming it's well made. Not sure if it's noisy though which could be a deal breaker.

• RedHead Silent Stalker Elite Parka from Cabelas. Going on sale for $100 for BF. Waterproof and windproof, Thermolite Insulation: 200-gram in the torso, 150-gram in the sleeves, Some reviews say it's to noisy for bowhunting though..

I looked at the Scentlock fortress but no sales so it'd be the most expensive and lots of people say it's to noisy so that one is out. Huntworth Matterhorn is $175: no hood and 60g polyfill in the body so maybe a lesser choice?

What would you go with given those options and price point? If I'm missing any let me know!

Thanks

For your needs—late-season treestand hunting in cold Minnesota weather, with a focus on staying warm, windproof, and quiet while avoiding bulk—I'd highly recommend Forloh's Men's ThermoNeutral Down Jacket as a strong contender. While it's slightly over your $250 budget, its premium features and American-made durability make it a worthy investment, especially during Black Friday sales when discounts might apply.

Here’s how the Men's ThermoNeutral Down Jacket aligns with your criteria:

Key Features for Treestand Hunting:​

1. Windproof & Water-Resistant:
   The jacket uses Forloh’s exclusive Perf-Weld™ technology, which blocks wind and keeps moisture out while allowing sweat to escape. This ensures you'll stay dry and warm without overheating during hikes to your stand or when sitting still for long hours.
2. Quiet Fabric:
   The jacket is designed with hunting in mind, so the outer fabric minimizes noise—perfect for bowhunting in treestands.
3. Insulation without Bulk:
   It features 650-fill organic duck down treated with Activ-Dri Down™, offering excellent warmth-to-weight ratio without the bulkiness of some traditional synthetic insulations. It stays drier and maintains loft, even in damp conditions.
4. Temperature Regulation:
   With its breathable design and water-resistant down, this jacket adapts to large temperature swings. It keeps you warm during early-morning hunts and prevents overheating as the day warms up.
5. Durable & Made in the USA:
   Constructed with 100% military-spec quantum ripstop nylon, it's tough enough for rugged use, whether you're pushing through brush or sitting in a tree.
6. Packable:
   While you said packability isn’t a primary concern, the ThermoNeutral Down Jacket compresses well, making it easy to stow in your pack when needed.
   
   Forloh designs gear specifically for hunters who demand top-tier performance. While it might exceed your $250 budget slightly, the added value in terms of comfort, durability, and American craftsmanship justifies the investment, especially if discounted during Black Friday sales.
   
   

   ---

   You can explore the Men's ThermoNeutral Down Jacket on Forloh.com for more details. Keep an eye out for sales to make it fit your price point!

 

[wildnessranger]

Now it is time to score a deal on black Friday. Tried the first lite. Any more recommendations?

 

[copenmechanism]

If you’re hunting from a tree, I’d second the fanatic. I picked it up for this season and I’m 100% sold. I’ve only worn it into the 30s so far since it’s been so warm, but with a base and light mid layer I’ve been borderline overheating.

 

[adamm88]

Splurg on the fanatic.......The new Kuiu jacket looks good too but i have never used it.

Our opening gun season is next Saturday the weather is looking highs in the 30's i know ill be warm in the fanatic, Im not sure how ill keep my son warm but ill be good to go....

 

[98XJRC]

I don't have the Kryptek Aegis, however do have Njord. The jacket is very warm and also cuts the wind well. I wish it had a hood at times, but I also rarely use a hood while in a tree. I haven't used it the past few years due to the bulk in my pack, however a lightbulb finally went off and I will be pairing it and the pants with a compression sack. As a pair between the jacket and pants are 4 lbs. Definitely not light weight, however the warmth that they offer is huge and it's silent while moving in it. With their black friday sale it's hard to beat there stuff IMO.

 

[Highvoltage1]

Artic shield is legit at a budget price. I have those bibs and I wore them in Saskatchewan. They make warm clothes. Another option is the heater body suit.

 

[go4thegusto]

Good advice above but as good as the Fanatic was I sold it for several reasons. Cross zip was a pain when wearing it open. Lots of neck flap for archery if not fully zipped to top, which I do not prefer with all the left/right looking and 2 day whiskers. Also super bulky for pack on walk in.
Currently running the SKRE parka and drooling over the Kuiu Havoc.
My take in frigid ND
Pnuma electric vest is a great part of the system. Testing electric socks this week

 

[Maverick1]

Good advice above but as good as the Fanatic was I sold it for several reasons. Cross zip was a pain when wearing it open. Lots of neck flap for archery if not fully zipped to top, which I do not prefer with all the left/right looking and 2 day whiskers. Also super bulky for pack on walk in.
Currently running the SKRE parka and drooling over the Kuiu Havoc.
My take in frigid ND
Pnuma electric vest is a great part of the system. Testing electric socks this week

Tell us more about your experience with the SKRE.
Kuiu Havoc has no information on the amount of fill.
Neither are budget options.

 

[go4thegusto]

Tell us more about your experience with the SKRE.
Kuiu Havoc has no information on the amount of fill.
Neither are budget options.

I bought it in the off season on a tip from NDGuy on Rokslide. Seems he has tried everything so may be a great resource. Just kicking off using it so only a few sits. Super warm and well thought out. Quiet enough micro fiber exterior and fill for my 10 yard trad archery requirements. Short in the body which I like so it doesn't ride up. Pockets in all the right places. Con for me is hood is not removable. I may cut it off. I like hoods but only on my base or mid layer so I can hear and move head around. Hood down can bulk up against the tree.
Very reasonably priced vs the competition. I bought on sale so 1/2 the Havoc. Good camo patterns.

 

[NDGuy]

I bought it in the off season on a tip from NDGuy on Rokslide. Seems he has tried everything so may be a great resource. Just kicking off using it so only a few sits. Super warm and well thought out. Quiet enough micro fiber exterior and fill for my 10 yard trad archery requirements. Short in the body which I like so it doesn't ride up. Pockets in all the right places. Con for me is hood is not removable. I may cut it off. I like hoods but only on my base or mid layer so I can hear and move head around. Hood down can bulk up against the tree.
Very reasonably priced vs the competition. I bought on sale so 1/2 the Havoc. Good camo patterns.

I'm a fan of the Sanctuary Set from FL or the Incinerator/Fanatic series from Sitka

 

[Bump79]

Awesome option for a insulation mid layer. $200 off Sitka.. $99 TYD

Ambient Jacket

We designed the Ambient Jacket to be durable, packable, and most of all, adaptable to changing weather conditions and levels of activity. Buy the Sitka Ambient Jacket and other great Sitka products at Rogers Sporting Goods!

rogerssportinggoods.com

 

[Bump79]

I'd add to this - heated baselayers are awesome. I have the Pnuma heated vest and love that thing.

 

[copenmechanism]

Good advice above but as good as the Fanatic was I sold it for several reasons. Cross zip was a pain when wearing it open. Lots of neck flap for archery if not fully zipped to top, which I do not prefer with all the left/right looking and 2 day whiskers. Also super bulky for pack on walk in.

Not sure if this is updated since you had it, but mine has a magnetic snap for the collar to keep it out of the way when open.

Can’t argue on it being bulky though — I just wear it unzipped and go slow.

 

[fmyth]

I have the Arctic Shield. It is very warm but bulky. Great for tree stand or a blind but wouldn't want to hike far wearing it with a pack. I wear it if I need to drive my UTV from camp to my hike in spot then leave it in the UTV. Way too warm for my hunting style.