Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s

The Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s immediately presents itself as an affordable option for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking silent, waterproof protection without breaking the bank. Marketed as a comfortable, flexible soft shell alternative, it piqued my interest due to its potential for layering and its promise of silent movement, a critical factor in close-range hunting scenarios. Gamehide, known for its value-driven approach, aims to deliver functional gear without the premium price tag, which is always worth investigating.

I needed a versatile jacket that could handle unpredictable weather during early-season deer hunts. The need to move silently through the woods was paramount, and many waterproof jackets rustle like a bag of potato chips. The online description highlighting the “silent, waterproof protection” of the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s felt like it was addressing my specific need.

Upon unboxing, the jacket felt lighter than expected, a definite plus for long days in the field. The HyperHide fabric had a soft, almost suede-like feel, promising minimal noise. The fleece lining felt comfortable against the skin, suggesting decent insulation for moderate temperatures.

Compared to my Sitka Gear soft shell (significantly more expensive) and a Cabela’s Guidewear rain jacket (bulky and noisy), the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s occupied a middle ground in terms of perceived quality and features. I chose it over a similar-priced Rivers West jacket due to the zippered armpit vents, a feature I value for regulating body temperature during strenuous activity. My hope was that the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s could deliver adequate weather protection without the weight or noise of traditional hunting jackets.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The price point was certainly attractive, and the feature set seemed well-suited to my needs. I was eager to put it through its paces in the field to see if it could live up to the claims of silent, waterproof performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s on a morning deer hunt in late October in central Pennsylvania. The temperature was a crisp 45 degrees Fahrenheit with a light drizzle, ideal conditions to evaluate its waterproofness and insulating capabilities. I was still hunting along a ridgeline, requiring slow, deliberate movements through thick brush.

The jacket performed adequately in the light rain, keeping me dry for about two hours before I started to notice slight dampness on my shoulders. The silence of the HyperHide fabric was a definite advantage; I could move freely without alerting nearby deer. The fleece lining provided sufficient warmth for the temperature, and the armpit vents allowed me to regulate my body heat when I started hiking up steeper terrain.

One issue that surfaced was the lack of a reliable seal around the wrists with the adjustable Lycra cuffs. Moisture eventually wicked its way inside.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use, primarily during deer season and late-season scouting trips, the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s has held up reasonably well, but some weaknesses have emerged. The waterproofness, while initially adequate, diminished noticeably after repeated exposure to rain and snow.

I’ve noticed some pilling on the fleece lining, particularly in areas where it rubs against other layers. The seams appear to be holding strong, but I anticipate they will eventually become the point of failure if exposed to extreme temperatures. I have not experienced that issue yet.

Cleaning the jacket is relatively simple; I’ve spot-cleaned it with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The HyperHide fabric repels dirt and mud fairly well. Compared to my high-end hunting apparel, the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s is definitely showing signs of wear and tear more quickly. However, given the price difference, this is not entirely unexpected.

Breaking Down the Features of Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Gamehide. They are well-known for producing affordable hunting apparel.
• Apparel Fit: Regular. Allows for layering without being overly bulky.
• Gender: Male. Tailored for a man’s physique.
• Age Group: Adults. Designed for adult users.
• Color: Realtree Edge. Provides effective camouflage in a variety of environments.
• Application: Hunting. Optimized for hunting activities.
• Fabric/Material: Fleece. Offers warmth and quietness.
• Insulation: Fleece. Provides a moderate level of insulation.
• Lining Material: Fleece. Enhances comfort and warmth.
• HyperHide fabric made from two-layer bonded fleece – This provides a balance of water resistance and quietness.
• Fleece-lined handwarmer pockets with zippers – Offers warmth and secure storage.
• Adjustable cuffs seal out wet, cold weather – Help to customize fit and retain heat.
• Three-piece removable hood – Provides additional weather protection when needed.
• Armpit zippers for ventilation – Allows for temperature regulation during high activity.

These specifications are important because they dictate the jacket’s performance in various hunting scenarios. The fleece construction prioritizes silence, crucial for stalking game. The Realtree Edge camouflage pattern enhances concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s performs adequately as a lightweight, quiet hunting jacket. Its primary strength lies in its silence; the HyperHide fabric allows for stealthy movement through the woods. The fleece lining provides sufficient warmth for cool weather, and the armpit zippers allow for temperature regulation.

However, the jacket’s waterproofness is its biggest weakness. It provides adequate protection in light rain or snow, but it is not suitable for prolonged exposure to heavy precipitation. The cuffs do not seal adequately, allowing moisture to wick inside.

The jacket meets expectations for a budget-friendly hunting jacket, but it does not outperform higher-end options in terms of weather protection or durability. For the price, however, the compromise may be acceptable.

Design & Ergonomics

The Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s features a relatively simple and functional design. The regular fit allows for layering without feeling bulky. The fleece-lined handwarmer pockets are a welcome addition.

The jacket is relatively user-friendly; there is no significant learning curve. The zippers operate smoothly, and the adjustable cuffs and hood allow for a customizable fit. The handwarmer pockets are fleece-lined, adding to the overall comfort.

Durability & Maintenance

The long-term durability of the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s is questionable. The fleece lining is prone to pilling. The waterproofness degrades over time.

Maintaining the jacket is straightforward; it can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Machine washing is not recommended. More than likely the HyperHide fabric will breakdown.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s does not come with any additional accessories. Its design is fairly basic, with limited customization options.

The jacket is compatible with standard layering systems, allowing users to customize their warmth and weather protection. I recommend a light base layer underneath for optimal comfort and moisture-wicking.

Pros and Cons of Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s?

The Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who prioritize silence and comfort in cool, dry to slightly damp conditions. It’s ideal for early-season deer hunts, turkey hunts, or scouting trips where stealth is paramount. It would also suit casual hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, comfortable jacket for moderate weather.

Hunters who need reliable waterproof protection in heavy rain or snow should skip this product. Additionally, individuals who demand exceptional durability and longevity from their hunting apparel should consider investing in higher-end options.

A moisture-wicking base layer is a must-have accessory to enhance comfort and warmth. A waterproof backpack cover is recommended to protect the jacket from heavy rain.

Conclusion on Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s

The Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s offers a compelling value proposition for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a silent, comfortable, and affordable jacket. Its strengths lie in its HyperHide fabric, which allows for stealthy movement, and its fleece lining, which provides adequate warmth in cool weather. However, its limited waterproofness and questionable durability are significant drawbacks.

The price of $79.99-$89.99 is generally justified given the features and performance offered. It is not a top-of-the-line product, but it provides a decent level of performance at a reasonable price.

I would recommend the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s to hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize silence and comfort in cool, dry conditions and are willing to accept its limitations in terms of waterproofness and durability. If you need a reliable waterproof jacket for heavy rain or snow, or if you demand exceptional durability, you should consider investing in a higher-end option. For those on a budget seeking a quiet and comfortable hunting jacket, the Gamehide Wapiti Jacket – Men’s is worth considering. Pick one up today and experience its value for yourself.