Let’s Talk About Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens
The Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens is designed to be a versatile piece of outerwear for hunters seeking stealth and comfort during the mid-season and beyond. Manufactured by Huntworth, this jacket aims to strike the perfect balance between warmth, weather protection, and freedom of movement. It boasts a quiet construction and the Disruption® camo pattern to keep you concealed in the field.
I needed a jacket that could handle the fluctuating temperatures of early- to mid-season deer hunting in the Midwest. I was tired of bulky, noisy jackets that restricted my movement when drawing my bow. The Huntworth jacket’s promise of being whisper-quiet and suitable for layering immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, I was pleased with the soft feel of the In-Velvet® fleece and the overall lightweight construction. The Disruption® camo pattern looked effective, and the jacket seemed well-built. The zippered pockets were a welcome feature, and the inner stash pockets provided added storage.
I considered the Sitka Gear Fanatic Hoody and the KUIU Guide DCS Jacket, both known for their performance and quality. However, their significantly higher price points made the Huntworth jacket a more appealing option. I also liked that the Huntworth was a bit more tailored to the whitetail woods I hunt.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The jacket seemed well-made and featured key attributes I was looking for. The real test, however, would be its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens on an early October deer hunt in Wisconsin. The weather was cool and damp, with temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Fahrenheit and a light drizzle. I wore it over a merino wool base layer and a light fleece.
The jacket performed admirably in the light rain, with the DWR finish effectively shedding moisture. Its quietness was immediately noticeable, allowing me to move through the woods without spooking deer. The jacket’s flexibility allowed for a full range of motion when drawing my bow, a significant improvement over my previous outerwear.
After a morning hunt, I noticed some slight dampness on the inside of the jacket, but it was minor and didn’t compromise my comfort. I appreciated the high stand collar, which kept my neck warm and protected from the wind. The harness access hole was also conveniently placed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens continues to perform well. I’ve worn it on numerous hunts, as well as hiking trips and casual outings. The jacket has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of clothing.
So far, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. The seams are holding up well, and the zippers operate smoothly. The jacket has been exposed to mud, brush, and light rain, and it has cleaned up easily each time.
Maintaining the jacket is simple. I wash it on a gentle cycle with cold water and hang it to dry. The Microban® antimicrobial treatment seems to be effective at controlling odor, as the jacket still smells fresh after multiple uses.
Compared to other softshell jackets I’ve owned, the Huntworth offering holds its own, especially considering its price point. It’s not as waterproof as some higher-end models, but it provides excellent warmth, mobility, and stealth. The performance definitely exceeded my expectations based on the price paid.
Breaking Down the Features of Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens
Specifications
The Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens boasts a double-layer construction. It utilizes In-Velvet® low pile fleece bonded to a grid fleece interior, creating a combined weight of 375g. This provides a balance of warmth and breathability.
The exterior features a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. This helps shed moisture and light snow, keeping you dry in mildly wet conditions. The bonded grid fleece is treated with Microban® antimicrobial product protection. This helps reduce scent, a crucial factor for successful hunting.
The jacket features two large zip side pockets. These provide ample storage for essential gear. It also includes one zip upper left chest pocket and two large open interior stash pockets. These pockets offer convenient organization and accessibility.
The jacket’s design includes a tapered arm construction. This allows for a more athletic fit and reduces bulk. A longer back hem provides additional coverage. This helps keep your lower back warm and protected. A high stand collar offers extra warmth around the neck. This seals out drafts and enhances comfort.
A full zipper with an inner storm flap and chin guard ensures weather protection. This prevents wind and rain from penetrating the jacket. The harness access hole at the back is a thoughtful addition for tree stand hunters. This allows for safe and comfortable use of a safety harness.
The average garment weight is 2.2 lbs. This makes it light enough to be comfortable for extended wear. The suggested temperature range is 30F – 50F with layering as needed. This illustrates the jacket’s versatility across various weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens excels at providing warmth and concealment in cool to moderate temperatures. Its quiet construction is a major advantage for hunters who need to move silently through the woods. The DWR finish offers adequate protection from light rain and snow.
The jacket’s strengths lie in its comfortable fit, low noise level, and effective camouflage. The generous pocket space is also a plus. However, it is not fully waterproof and may not be suitable for heavy downpours.
The jacket meets and even exceeds expectations for a mid-weight softshell at its price point. It delivers a good balance of features and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for most hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens is solid. The materials used feel durable and well-stitched. The jacket’s weight is comfortable for all-day wear.
The In-Velvet® fleece is soft against the skin, enhancing comfort. The jacket is user-friendly, with intuitive pocket placement and a smooth-operating zipper. There is virtually no learning curve involved in wearing and using this jacket.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens appears to be durable and capable of withstanding regular use in the field. With proper care, it should last for several seasons. The fabric is resistant to snags and tears.
The jacket is easy to maintain. Machine washing and air drying are sufficient to keep it clean and fresh. The DWR finish may need to be reapplied periodically to maintain its water repellency.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the standard pockets and features mentioned earlier. However, it is compatible with various hunting accessories, such as safety harnesses, backpacks, and rangefinders. The jacket’s neutral design allows it to be easily paired with other hunting gear.
While there are no specific customization options offered by Huntworth, hunters can personalize the jacket with patches or other embellishments. The harness access hole is also a practical feature that caters to the needs of tree stand hunters.
Pros and Cons of Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens
Pros
- Whisper-quiet In-Velvet® fleece is ideal for stalking and still hunting.
- DWR finish effectively sheds light rain and snow.
- Microban® antimicrobial treatment helps control scent.
- Comfortable and flexible fit allows for a full range of motion.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Not fully waterproof; not suitable for heavy rain.
- Grid fleece interior could be warmer in very cold temperatures.
Who Should Buy Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens?
The Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens is perfect for hunters seeking a versatile and affordable mid-weight jacket for early- to mid-season hunts. It is also a good choice for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who need a comfortable and quiet jacket for cool weather.
This jacket may not be ideal for those who hunt in extremely cold or wet conditions. Hunters who require a fully waterproof jacket or those who need maximum insulation may want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality base layer. Layering is key to maximizing the jacket’s performance in varying temperatures.
Conclusion on Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens
The Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens is a well-designed and functional piece of outerwear that offers excellent value for the price. It provides a good balance of warmth, weather protection, and stealth, making it a solid choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
The price is definitely justified. The jacket delivers performance comparable to more expensive models.
I would absolutely recommend the Huntworth Hunting Soft Shell Mid Weight Jacket – Mens to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable mid-weight hunting jacket. It’s a versatile piece of gear that will serve you well in a variety of outdoor settings. Grab one before your next hunt and experience the difference for yourself!