Sitka gear help

[Bryan8541]

I have an elk hunt in Idaho at end of October. Looking at past weather it looks to be 30-70 dee most days. Some rain and little snow can be expected. Will be my 1st hunt and I really don't have much in terms of clothing. I like FL and Kuiu and Sitka. While researching I came across thread that states Sitka will do 40% discount to military and veterans. So after sending in my info they honored it so the Sitka comes out a little less expensive than the other 2. It's an 8 day backcountry guided trip. I would like to take a 1 set of warm weather gear and 1 set of cooler weather gear and a rain set. Is that taking too much in terms of outer layers. Also what is your go to model for this kind of hunt in the Sitka line. Thanks Bryan

 

[Desk Jockey]

No specific experience in Idaho so perhaps someone will come along to offer more targeted feedback.

As a general matter, I would say take your time and build a system that works for you based on your experience in a few trips.

He are some other more specific thoughts:

Base layers - I like the core lite hoodie. For bottoms I use a pair of kuiu zip offs
Mid laye - core heavy weight hoodie or zip
Insulation - kelvin lite hoodie
Jacket - I like soft shells. I use my jetstream jacket a lot for the temps you mentioned
Pants - I am a a fan of their timberlines but they are burly and heavy. I think the mountain pants would be a good choice.

With a bit of layering, those items ought to be a good start to cover those temps.

For rain gear I might suggest the cloudburst stuff. I have a storefront jacket and think it is overkill for something that stays in the pack just in case. Cloudburst is lighter and cheaper.

 

[tracker12]

Jetstream Jacket and Mountain pants would be a great start . I love both of those nd are my go to pieces. Then layer depending the weather. Merino base layer of what ever brand is always on my body if needed, Puffy is another item that always gos with me. Plenty of good ones out there.

 

[tlkaetz]

My layering system for Idaho October General:

Top:
Icebreaker Merino SS Crew
Sitka Core Lightweight Hoody
Sitka Core Midweight Zip-T
Sitka Cloudburst Rain Jacket
Sitka Kelvin WS Hoody

Bottom:
Ex Officio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh 9" Boxer Brief
Kuhl Renegade Pant
Sitka Cloudburst Rain Pant
Sitka Kelvin Pant

Darn Tough Full Cushion Boot Socks
Scarpa Charmoz


Accessories:
Sitka Jetstream Beanie
Mountain Hardwear Fleece Beanie

Outdoor Research MT Baker Mitts
Sitka Traverse Gloves

I run hot so I only wear the Merino SS Crew, Core Lightweight Hoody and Kuhl Renegade Pants when I am hiking unless it's really cold. Then I will throw on the Core Midweight Zip-T over the hoody.

 

[Back Country Hunter 2]

No experience in Idaho, but plenty during that time in Colorado. My go to is below.

Bottom
Timberline Pant
Kuiu Zip off merino bottoms
I don't pack down pants during this time even though I own a pair.

Top
Sitka Merino Top
Sitka Heavy Weight Hoody
Kifaru LPP
Sitka Jetstream Jacket

Rain gear
Kuiu Chugach

If the temps are getting into the 60's during the day then the timberline pants are way too hot so I switch to the Sitka ascents. Good luck!

 

[Bojangles21]

Sitka is definitely the best when it comes to discounts! That’s why I chose Sitka in everything but merino vase layers.
Are you active duty or a vet? I get out soon and I’m trying to buy as much stuff as I can so I use the discount, because I’m not too sure what the veteran discount is or if it’s still 40%?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[A-bros archery]

For me; I haven't had much field time with it yet but this is what I built after listening to hours worth of podcasts with John Barclow and other guys. (So take it for what it's worth)

Sitka core lightweight hoodie
Sitka core heavy weight zip
Sitka Timberline hooded jacket
Sitka Kelvin lite vest

Tip that Aaron Snyder just gave on a recent podcast- If you're looking to save some money consider pants that are not hunting specific like Kuhl or Zion ($70 or $80 instead of $130+) Also my puffy jacket was on sale for $40 from Columbia.