When the first frost settles or the summer heat still clings to the land, serious hunters know one truth: the right gear can make or break your hunt. Over the past two decades of hunting whitetails in sub-zero temperatures, chasing gobblers in spring storms, and navigating upland terrain under a blazing August sun, I’ve learned what works—and what leaves you shivering or soaked.

In this no-fluff guide, I’ll walk you through the most reliable hunting cold weather gear, the newest and smartest hunting gear in 2024, our top upland hunting gear selections, and a full rundown on what to pack for your 2025 turkey season.

Best Cold Weather Hunting Gear for 2024

Let’s face it: cold is the ultimate gear test. Anyone can stay warm in the truck, but when you’re 15 feet up a tree stand and the wind is howling through the hollows, only quality matters.

Here’s what I swear by in cold weather:

1. Insulated Bibs and Parkas

Brands like Sitka, First Lite, and Nomad are leading with ultra-warm, wind-resistant systems. I’ve tested the Sitka Fanatic in 10°F temps with wind chill—and stayed warm all day.

2. Layering Matters

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (Merino wool preferred), add a heat-retention mid-layer like down or synthetic fleece, and top it with a waterproof shell.

3. Cold-Weather Accessories

• Heated insoles (Game changer!)

• Wool socks (Darn Tough or Smartwool)

• Neck gaiters + windproof gloves

You can view our full hunting gear list to make sure you're fully prepped.

New Hunting Gear in 2024 That’s Worth the Investment

This year, innovation is front and center. From smart scopes to silent clothing, here’s what caught my eye:

Smart Thermal Tech

Several companies—including GTGUARD, a brand under GTMEDIA, released upgraded night vision and thermal monoculars like the Hawkeye Ai15 and Ai15 Thermal. These aren’t gimmicks—they offer crisp thermal imaging even in total darkness. I used one on a recent hog hunt, and it changed everything.

Packable Rain Shells

Some of 2024’s best innovations are in rain gear. Look for jackets that compress to fit in a pack and still deliver 100% waterproof protection.

Quick-Deploy Ground Blinds

Brands like Barronett and Rhino are adding faster setup systems. For turkey hunters, this is huge.

Best Upland Hunting Gear: Built for Miles and Motion

Upland hunters know the drill: long walks, quick shots, and weather that shifts every hour. Your gear has to be lightweight, breathable, and durable.

What I always carry:

• Brush pants with reinforced knees

• A vest with shell loops and hydration pocket

• Breathable boots (Irish Setter VaprTrek is my go-to)

• GPS dog collar system (Garmin Alpha series)

Want more upland insights? Check our best upland gear picks.

2025 Turkey Hunting Gear Checklist

Spring gobbler season rewards preparation. The most successful hunters I know have their gear dialed long before the season starts.

Here’s what to update in your 2025 turkey hunting gear:

• Mobile turkey chairs (light and back-supportive)

• Decoys with motion stakes (adds realism)

• Slate + diaphragm calls (double up for variety)

• Camouflage layering system (light, breathable, adaptable to changing temps)

• Rain protection gear (see next section)

Grab our full turkey gear guide here.

Best Hunting Rain Gear (and Why It’s Non-Negotiable)

Rain ruins more hunts than you’d think—but not if you're geared right. In 2024 and 2025, brands are doubling down on tech-enhanced waterproofing.

Top-performing hunting rain gear includes:

• Sitka Dew Point Jacket: Ultra-light and breathable

• Frogg Toggs All-Purpose Rain Suit: Budget-friendly and effective

• Kuiu Chugach TR: High-end, packable storm protection

If you're still out there with that old yellow poncho, it’s time to upgrade.

Explore our full best rain gear guide.

Hot Weather Hunting Gear: Don't Overheat in the Field

Whether it’s summer hogs or late dove season, hot weather hunting requires its own approach.

Essential hot weather gear:

• Ventilated shirts and UV-blocking fabrics

• Moisture-wicking boxers (trust me)

• Cooling towels + hydration packs

• Lightweight camo gloves (fingerless helps)

Stay light, stay hydrated, and plan your movements to maximize shade and breeze.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Kit for Every Season

The key to great hunting is preparation. Build your hunting gear list with the season, the species, and the terrain in mind. Whether you're planning for the icy silence of January, the wet winds of turkey season, or the scorching heat of upland summer, the gear you carry matters.

2024 and 2025 have brought some incredible advancements to hunting gear—take advantage of them, and you’ll notice the difference with every step, every shot, and every success.

Stay safe, stay warm (or cool), and happy hunting.