Huntworth Elkins Mid Weight Tarnen Windproof Soft Shell Vest Waffle Fleece Interior – Mens Review

First Impressions of Huntworth Elkins Mid Weight Tarnen Windproof Soft Shell Vest Waffle Fleece Interior – Mens

The Huntworth Elkins Mid Weight Tarnen Windproof Soft Shell Vest Waffle Fleece Interior – Mens arrives promising warmth, wind protection, and scent control – a trifecta any serious hunter appreciates. Huntworth positions this vest as a versatile layering piece, suited for a wide range of temperatures, and that’s exactly what caught my attention. After years of battling unpredictable weather during hunts, a reliable mid-layer vest is an absolute essential in my gear arsenal.

My quest for the perfect vest stemmed from a recurring problem: bulky jackets restricting movement while stalking game. I needed something that offered core warmth without sacrificing dexterity, and the promise of windproof construction sealed the deal. I’ve used plenty of vests before, but I was specifically hunting for one with a fleece interior and windproof membrane, a combination that ideally balances insulation and breathability.

Upon unboxing, the Tarnen digital camo pattern immediately strikes you; it’s effective and modern. The vest feels substantial, but not overly heavy, suggesting a good balance of durability and packability. The stitching appears clean and robust, a positive sign of quality construction. My initial impression is definitely positive, with a sense that this vest is built to withstand the rigors of the field.

Compared to similar vests from brands like Sitka Gear (expensive!) and cheaper options from generic outdoor retailers (lacking quality), the Huntworth Elkins aims for a sweet spot between performance and affordability. I chose it over a similar Cabela’s offering due to the Huntworth’s specified windproof membrane and the Microban antimicrobial treatment. Honestly, I’m excited to put it through its paces; it has the potential to become a new go-to piece of kit.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Huntworth Elkins Mid Weight Tarnen Windproof Soft Shell Vest Waffle Fleece Interior – Mens to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Huntworth Elkins vest was during an early-season whitetail hunt in the Appalachian foothills. The weather was typical for late October: cool mornings hovering around 35°F, with a chance of afternoon showers. I wore the vest over a merino wool base layer while sitting in a tree stand.

The windproof claim held up admirably, cutting through the chill and preventing windburn. The DWR finish effectively repelled a light drizzle, keeping me dry and comfortable. Initially, I was a little concerned about the noise of the soft shell fabric, but it proved to be surprisingly quiet during movement, allowing me to draw my bow undetected when a doe wandered into range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use – including deer hunts, upland bird outings, and even some late-season trout fishing – the Huntworth Elkins vest has proven its worth. The vest has seen multiple wash cycles (following Huntworth’s care instructions, of course) and hasn’t shrunk or faded. I even wore it during a particularly grueling hike where I needed a warm, breathable layer while trekking up hills.

The durability has been impressive, with no signs of significant wear and tear despite regular abrasion against brush and tree limbs. The DWR finish continues to shed light moisture effectively. The waffle fleece interior has maintained its loft and warmth. Compared to a cheaper fleece vest I used previously, the Huntworth Elkins outperforms it significantly in wind protection and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Huntworth Elkins Mid Weight Tarnen Windproof Soft Shell Vest Waffle Fleece Interior – Mens

Specifications

• The Huntworth Elkins vest is constructed from a triple-layer fabric, combining In-Velvet low pile fleece, a windproof breathable film, and a waffle fleece interior. This combination aims to provide warmth, wind resistance, and breathability in a single garment.
• The fabric weight is 375g, which places it in the mid-weight category, suitable for layering or standalone use in cool conditions. The weight indicates a reasonable level of insulation without excessive bulk.
• It features a Durable Water Repellant (DWR) finish to shed light moisture. DWR is crucial for preventing the fabric from becoming saturated in light rain or snow, maintaining breathability and warmth.
• Microban antimicrobial product protection is integrated into the waffle fleece lining. This technology inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, extending the time between washes and keeping you fresher during long hunts.
• The vest has two zippered hand pockets and one zippered chest pocket. These provide secure storage for essential items like a rangefinder, phone, or keys.
• The drop tail hem provides extended coverage in the back, preventing drafts and keeping your lower back warm. This is especially useful when bending or sitting for extended periods.
• It includes a full zipper with a chin guard for added comfort and protection. The chin guard prevents the zipper from rubbing against your neck.
• Huntworth suggests a temperature range of 25F-50F with layering. This range is a good guideline, but individual tolerance and activity level will affect comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The Huntworth Elkins vest excels at providing core warmth and wind protection without restricting movement. The combination of the windproof membrane and fleece lining effectively blocks windchill, making it comfortable in breezy conditions. The breathability of the fabric prevents overheating during periods of activity.

The vest’s strengths lie in its versatility and comfort. It performs exceptionally well as a mid-layer under a heavier jacket or as a standalone piece during milder weather. The Microban treatment is a noticeable benefit, reducing odor buildup during extended use.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with durable stitching and quality zippers. The materials feel comfortable against the skin, and the vest moves well with the body. The Tarnen camo pattern is effective in a variety of hunting environments.

The design is user-friendly, with well-placed pockets and a comfortable fit. There is no significant learning curve; it is a simple and effective garment to wear.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Huntworth Elkins vest is built to last. The fabric resists abrasion and the stitching holds up well to regular use. The DWR finish can be rejuvenated with a technical wash-in product like Nikwax.

Maintenance is simple: machine wash cold and tumble dry low. The Microban treatment helps to keep the vest fresh between washes.

Accessories and Customization Options

The vest does not come with any specific accessories, but its design lends itself well to layering with other hunting apparel. The pockets are sized to accommodate standard hunting gear like rangefinders and calls.

There are no specific customization options available directly from Huntworth. However, the vest could be easily modified by a tailor to add features like additional pockets or a harness pass-through.

Pros and Cons of Huntworth Elkins Mid Weight Tarnen Windproof Soft Shell Vest Waffle Fleece Interior – Mens