Let’s Dive into Banded Desoto Jacket
The Banded Desoto Jacket is a mid-weight, all-season hunting jacket designed by Banded, a company known for its waterfowl-focused gear. Its combination of weather-resistant shoulders and arms with a comfortable coral fleece body aims to provide both protection and breathability, making it an interesting option for hunters facing variable conditions.
I needed a versatile jacket that could handle early-season hunts and serve as a layering piece in colder weather. My current jacket was either too bulky or not warm enough, leaving me searching for a Goldilocks solution.
Upon unboxing, the jacket felt surprisingly lightweight and soft. The combination of the Stealth-shell material and coral fleece created a unique tactile experience, promising both protection and comfort.
I considered other options like the Sitka Dakota Hoody and the Drake MST Eqwader 1/4 Zip. The Banded Desoto Jacket caught my eye due to its seemingly perfect blend of weather resistance in key areas and a breathable fleece body.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed well-thought-out, and the materials felt high-quality, leaving me eager to test its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Banded Desoto Jacket to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Banded Desoto Jacket during an early-season teal hunt in a coastal marsh. The weather was damp with a light drizzle and a cool breeze, providing a good initial challenge for the jacket’s weather resistance.
The Stealth-shell shoulders and arms effectively repelled the light rain, keeping me dry in those critical areas. The coral fleece body provided ample warmth without causing me to overheat while setting decoys.
The jacket was immediately comfortable and required no break-in period. The full range of motion it provided ensured that I could easily swing my shotgun without any restriction.
I found the hand pockets to be a bit shallow for my liking, making it difficult to secure items like my phone or a small multi-tool. Also, I noted that the coral fleece body began to pill slightly after being exposed to some brush during the hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season and several upland bird hunts, the Banded Desoto Jacket has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of gear. The Stealth-shell material has held up well against abrasion from brush and blind materials.
The coral fleece body, while showing some pilling, has maintained its warmth and comfort. Regular washing, following the manufacturer’s instructions, has helped minimize the pilling issue.
The Banded Desoto Jacket has outperformed my previous fleece jacket in terms of weather resistance and overall durability. It hasn’t completely replaced my heavy-duty waterproof shell, but it has become my go-to jacket for most hunting situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Banded Desoto Jacket
Specifications
The Banded Desoto Jacket features a weather-resistant and windproof Stealth-shell on the shoulders and arms. The main body of the jacket is constructed from warm and comfortable coral fleece.
The jacket is designed with zippered hand pockets utilizing weather-resistant YKK zippers. The overall fit is described as regular, and it is designed for adults.
The jacket is available in Bottomland camo. The Manufacturer is Banded.
These specifications combine to create a jacket that offers targeted weather protection, breathability, and comfort, catering specifically to the needs of hunters in diverse conditions. The use of YKK zippers suggests a focus on quality and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Banded Desoto Jacket performs admirably in its intended role as an all-season hunting jacket. The combination of weather-resistant material and warm fleece provides a good balance of protection and comfort.
The jacket’s strength lies in its versatility, making it suitable for a range of hunting scenarios. The shallow pockets and pilling of the fleece are minor drawbacks.
Overall, the jacket meets my expectations and provides a valuable addition to my hunting wardrobe.
Design & Ergonomics
The Banded Desoto Jacket‘s design is focused on functionality and comfort. The placement of the Stealth-shell material on the shoulders and arms makes perfect sense, providing protection where it’s most needed.
The jacket is user-friendly and requires no special adjustments or modifications. The regular fit allows for layering underneath, making it adaptable to colder conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Banded Desoto Jacket appears to be built to last, with durable Stealth-shell material and quality zippers. The coral fleece body will likely require more frequent washing and care to minimize pilling.
The jacket is machine-washable, making maintenance relatively easy. Spot cleaning is also effective for minor stains or dirt.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Banded Desoto Jacket comes with no additional accessories beyond the standard zippered hand pockets. Customization options are limited, as the jacket is designed as a standalone garment.
The regular fit allows for layering with other Banded apparel or accessories from other brands. However, there are no specific attachment points or features that promote extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of Banded Desoto Jacket
Pros
- The Stealth-shell material on the shoulders and arms provides excellent weather resistance in key areas.
- The coral fleece body is exceptionally warm and comfortable.
- The jacket offers a good range of motion, allowing for unrestricted movement while hunting.
- YKK zippers ensure reliable and durable closure.
- The Bottomland camo pattern is effective for concealment in various hunting environments.
Cons
- The hand pockets are somewhat shallow, limiting their utility.
- The coral fleece body is prone to pilling with regular use.
Who Should Buy Banded Desoto Jacket?
The Banded Desoto Jacket is perfect for waterfowl hunters, upland bird hunters, and early-season deer hunters. Anyone who needs a versatile, weather-resistant, and comfortable jacket will benefit from this product.
This product is not ideal for individuals who require maximum waterproof protection in heavy rain. Those prioritizing deep pockets or a super durable fleece should explore other options.
A must-have accessory would be a quality base layer for added warmth in colder conditions. Also, a good water repellent spray can help improve the water resistance of the coral fleece.
Conclusion on Banded Desoto Jacket
The Banded Desoto Jacket is a well-designed and functional hunting jacket that offers a compelling combination of weather resistance and comfort. The few minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by its overall performance and versatility.
At $149.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend it to any hunter looking for a reliable and versatile all-season jacket.
If you’re seeking a jacket that can handle variable weather conditions and keep you comfortable in the field, the Banded Desoto Jacket is definitely worth considering. So get out there and experience the difference!