Need advice on whitetail layering system

[BilboBaggins]

I deer hunted with my dad a lot growing up and to this day I can't think of a time where I've been colder. I'm getting back into it as an adult and I want to pick up some nice clothes to keep me warm. I'm not too worried about buying stuff just to try it out but I'd like to get things right the first time if possible. I'm deer hunting rifle in Missouri, would like to venture into hunting out west in the coming years.

Planning on still hunting for the most part this season and I get cold pretty easy. I'm trying to focus on layering so I can adjust my wardrobe based on activity level. Here is what I'm planning to wear.

• Base layer top: First lite wick long sleeve
• Mid Layer 1: LL Bean merino sweater (already have this, pretty lightweight)
• Mid Layer 2: Woolrich wool shirt (already have this)
• Insulation layer: First lite brooks down sweater (for long sits)
• Outer layer: First lite uncompahgre foundry jacket OR Sitka jetstream (I feel like the jetstream would be more versatile but I'm not sure if it is warm enough. Also not completely waterproof)
• Base layer bottom: First Lite Kiln (see pants below)
• Pants: First Lite 308 Insulated (I have a feeling kiln base layers plus insulated pants would be too much warmth for active hunting. Will the hip vents solve this? I could probably skip the base layer on milder days)
• Gloves: Wool fingerless and a Sitka hand muff
• Hat: Wool Beanie

So to summarize my main concerns...

• Is a Sitka jetstream + puffy + mid layers sufficient for long sits in bitter cold? Or should I go with the more weatherproof First lite uncompahgre foundry jacket as my outer layer?
• For my pants is a kiln base layer + insulated 308 pant too much for active hunting or even walking to my stand? Maybe I should go kiln base layer + uninsulated pants + a bib I can put on at the stand?
• In regards to bibs, I was looking at some pretty cheap Columbia wool bibs on ebay. They seem nice but they don't have side zips, just very wide legs for slipping over boots. Will I regret not getting something with a zipper if I get these?

 

[ColPenguin]

Missing from your list for cold days:

* A good pair of wool socks
* 600g thinsulate boots
* Merino balaclava
* Extra gloves are never a bad idea

I use the insulated Carhartt bibs, but only on very cold days. The legs zip up to hips so can vent them on walk in, or easily slip on over bulky insulated boots at my stand. Otherwise, take the bibs off and put them in, or strap them to your pack.

I think slipping over boots easily is more important than ability to vent.

 

[BilboBaggins]

Missing from your list for cold days:

* A good pair of wool socks
* 600g thinsulate boots
* Merino balaclava
* Extra gloves are never a bad idea

I use the insulated Carhartt bibs, but only on very cold days. The legs zip up to hips so can vent them on walk in, or easily slip on over bulky insulated boots at my stand. Otherwise, take the bibs off and put them in, or strap them to your pack.

I think slipping over boots easily is more important than ability to vent.

Oops yeah forgot to add my feet setup! I have wool socks and have yet to dive into researching insulated boots. I have wide feet so that will be the main constraint when looking for boots. Also planning to bring lots of hand/toe warmers.

Carhartt bibs are a classic but I feel like they would be pretty loud? I was also looking at Cabelas Wooltimate on ebay, they have side zips.

 

[NRA4LIFE]

Remember, In MO, you're hat/cap has to be orange. Mandatory to wear one too.

 

[ColPenguin]

Carhartt bibs are a classic but I feel like they would be pretty loud?

Not going to lie. They are not quiet.

A basic pair of insulated work pants is a better option on days when it's not sub-freezing temperatures. For example: https://www.ruralking.com/rural-king-mens-fleece-lined-jeans--48303-hickory-pant-size-36x30

 

[Skerhunter]

What is “bitter cold” in your area exactly? That will determine the outer layers you may want to consider.

My general advice spend money on your outer layers and most anything works for layering (cheap) - merino base layers (light to mid weight) with cheap nylon pants, heavy sweater/fleece layer, insulated vest is nice for moving but not needed, wind proof outer layers (coat and bibs or puffy pants both zip off style).

Light Puffy and jet stream is ok for mornings in 30-40s where it warms up by 10. Any colder than that and I will get cold eventually, but that is sitting in a tree stand not moving.

 

[BilboBaggins]

What is “bitter cold” in your area exactly? That will determine the outer layers you may want to consider.

My general advice spend money on your outer layers and most anything works for layering (cheap) - merino base layers (light to mid weight) with cheap nylon pants, heavy sweater/fleece layer, insulated vest is nice for moving but not needed, wind proof outer layers (coat and bibs or puffy pants both zip off style).

Light Puffy and jet stream is ok for mornings in 30-40s where it warms up by 10. Any colder than that and I will get cold eventually, but that is sitting in a tree stand not moving.

With wind chill its pretty common to get down to around 10-15F, or around 0F in late December. I may just get the jetstream for early season and the first lite jacket for late season.

If I'm going with a bib set up I probably will just get some cheap Wrangler pants.

 

[Skerhunter]

With wind chill its pretty common to get down to around 10-15F, or around 0F in late December. I may just get the jetstream for early season and the first lite jacket for late season.

If I'm going with a bib set up I probably will just get some cheap Wrangler pants.

That cold you will definitely want a heavier coat with windblocker and bibs if you sitting for any length of time. I prefer zip off puffy pants (more comfortable and easier to pack) but once it hits low 20s the bibs come out!

 

[rookieforever33]

I find a thin liner sock under a thicker sock really helps my feet. Also do not tie your boots super tight. Restricting blood flow makes feet colder. Outer layers that block wind are priceless on breezy days.

 

[BilboBaggins]

That cold you will definitely want a heavier coat with windblocker and bibs if you sitting for any length of time. I prefer zip off puffy pants (more comfortable and easier to pack) but once it hits low 20s the bibs come out!

Which bibs do you prefer?

 

[Bump79]

@BilboBaggins that will be a pretty awesome system. You'll figure out what you like as you go. Just find good deals on stuff and resale isn't that bad.

I'm a huge fan of the heated baselayers from Pnuma. I found mine on sale like 50% off. Get an extra battery. I also like