I like it a lot, mostly because I don't have to bring a facemask and don't have to worry about finding it or putting it away in a pocket. I don't find it to be annoying when behind my head, and it seems to stay up better than a regular gaiter.
Depending on the temps and amount of activity I bounce between the First Lite Corrugate Foundry and Catalyst Foundry. Knee pads and hip zips have become a must have for me. Along with the waterproof seat and knees they just check so many boxes, on top of fitting me well and being comfortable.
I've been to that same area twice on mule deer hunts during that timeframe. It can range from mid-50s down to -20 F. As already mentioned, windproof is key. The Sitka Jetstream would be a good option; I personally have the Timberline (since discontinued). I wore the First Lite Chamberlin a lot...
I'm a big fan of the Chamberlin as well. It's extremely warm for its weight and packs down fairly small. I just got back from a 10 day hunt in NWT and even though temps only got below freezing one night I was glad I had it along. It's just so nice to be able to throw it on and warm up quickly...
Thanks everyone for the suggestions. After reading through these and doing some other research I ended up going with the Exped Ultra 7R pad, and might just stick with my current bag in hopes that the extra insulation I get from that pad will be enough.
What does everyone use for a sleeping bag and pad? I am filming a sheep and caribou hunt in NWT beginning the first week of August, and in the last two hunts I've been up there felt I was a little undergunned with my current setup -- REI Radiant 19 degree bag and Sea to Summit Ultralight...
I don't have that much camera gear that I'm worried about it fitting, just thinking the load sling would be better for carrying an arm or tripod than lashing it to the outside. And yes, definitely looking to make my decision soon with the sale going on. Thanks!
I've been looking for a smaller daypack to complement my 44 Mag and think I have it narrowed down to these two. It would be used mostly for Midwest deer and turkey hunts, as well as some day hunts out west. I don't hang and hunt often but do carry camera gear on most deer hunts. The load sling...
I recently got the First Lite Catalyst Foundry Pants and have been really impressed with them. Fleece lined for warmth, but also has the full length leg zips to dump heat when needed. Waterproof seat and knees are really handy when there is snow on the ground.
I like down because it's warmer for the weight and more packable. I also always have rain gear along so they won't get wet. I was on a moose hunt in Alaska last fall where it rained nine of the eleven days we were out and I was able to keep them dry. Of the hunting brands (not as familiar with...