Trad Gang

Is this stuff all it's cracked up to be? I've been looking at the pant's and was curious as to how they fit, are they durable and are they worth the money? opinion's welcome! Thanks, Jason

I have the 90% bought specifically for bivy elk hunting.  Great stuff.  Wore it for 10 days from 30 - 70 degree weather just with a base layer.  Perfect for active hunting.

Got home from Colorado and tried it in some cold/cool stand hunting for deer.  Froze my you know what.  Layered up as well...

They have other/heavier stuff as well but it adds up quick b/c nothing is inexpensive.  

The 90% was worth it b/c I didn't have to pack other clothes on my elk hunt.  But I don't see any advantages of having it for deer hunting here in MO...

I'llbe keeping up on this one myself. Cabelas have the Celcius Jacket at half price.
Does anyone know how good this is in the cold?

I like the Celsius Jacket because it is a little heavier than the 90% and can add a little more versatility to stand hunting. Again you will need to wear addional under layering in temperatures below freezing. Wether is Sitka, that's up to you. The Kelvin jacket is what I use because it is very light and packable, but when temps reach teens or below zero in a stand you will need additional options. I hear guys say if you have to put on 4 layers of cloths to sit in stand in sub-zero weather than why bother with it. But I can tell you, I won't sit in a tree in subzero weather with less than four layers nonmatter what it is. So if I can get close to that with lighter and less bulk, I will give it a try.
I bought a King of the Mountain Jacket and pant for $700 over 15 years ago that I can still find uses for. Will Sitka have this kind of longevity, durability and versatility? On some levels I think yes! Ha!  Mike

My sons and I have been using the 90%, and the lighter stuff for three seasons now, and we love it.   Like has been said, it needs "extras" in cold, cold weather, but we've found it very versatile and usable for most of the season, and especially in active hunting.  It is pricey, and that has limited my ability to try out some of the newer stuff, but most of the "made for hunting" gear is pricey these days, just like any specialty gear for any sport or activity.

I have the Acent pants and the core zip-t for the September Colorado Archery Season. Its awesome as a light weight camo when its still warm out, but nothing will take the place of my wool when the temps drop. The Sitka durability is okay in my opinion, but I still think wool is the way to go for the longest lasting material.

Kind Regards

Hi Casey,
        Have you had the chance to see how the optifade performs on our fury friends?

Andy.

Looks like I might as well go ahead and get the KOM pants! that was my original plan but man there expensive!! Thanks everybody, Jason

If you are in a treestand and don't move, I think anything should work; however, I like to film when I hunt so I don't want to be detected as much by birds either. I've gotten very close to hawks and eagles as well have had great close experience with many song birds and woodpeckers. I have been wearing the Optifade all season. I took a bear wearing it in Sept and this buck in October. Is it Optifade or did I just get lucky? Ha! Mike
 (http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff289/MittenM/hero/9pt09mike.jpg)

If you are thinking about cold weather stuff read the review in the Cabela's website. My impression was that for cold weather it got low scores. For bowhunting in mild weather or if you are an "active" still hunter it got much better reviews. It seems to depend on what kind of hunting you plan on doing whether it is worth the $$$$$.

An active hunter in mild weather doesn't need much to keep them warm; I get uncomfortable with too much wool when it's over 25 degrees.  Below 25 I just carry a heavier wool jacket to add when standing.  My biggest issues are feet and head and good wool socks...a light pair under a heavy pair does the job for the tootsies.  

A wool stocking cap will keep your upper body from cooling down too rapidly as well. I really can't spend several hundred dollars for something that won't do much better than what I already have.  And, as a Pro Staff member of GoodWill Industries, I must remain loyal 8^).

I've been saving my pennies for some time now planing on buying KOM pants, just looking for a little cheaper route! I guess if I buy them now I have them for several years so I just need to get it over with! Thanks again guy's, Jason

Covey....I have a pair of Woolrich malone style wool pants that I've had for fifteen years and they are still going.  They cost about $79.00.  I would expect KOM's to last a lifetime at least for the amount you pay.  They can only keep your bottom half warm you know 8^).

FYI KOMs wool is made by Pendelton. They are good cloths but they moved to foreign assembly plants. I've bought some items and there's been some issues with it lately. I would think about GreyWolf the wool is much tighter. Thats what I wear when it's gets bitter cold. Sitka for me is great early to mid season.

I have used it for better than three years. I've hunted for Elk in September and Deer in stands with 2 degree weather. Sitka was made to be layered. Sitka holds everything tight to the body and is really light for packing. I have not had so much as a snag in the material so far. I love this stuff.

I like pockets, are the filson six pocket? I also like 7 belt loops, I don't like my belt riding up over my pants! I like the look of the graywolf but it seems like everything is an option! back pockets, cargo pockets etc... Thank's for all the input fella's, Jason

I was going to get it but it does not come in plaid   ;)

I have the 90% jacket only.   None of the rest of the system.   I bought it because it was on a big sale.  A close-out sale so I don't know if that means anything.

I am glad I tried it.  It is interesting stuff,  but I don't think it is worth the current price of it, and if something happened to it, I would not replace it.

The lighter stuff for August/Sept. elk hunting works great. The 90% comes in handy when the temps drop. Then wearing some Merino wool longjohns up them works for the colder times. I hunt in the rain for the blacktail season so the Downpour is perfect...stay warm and dry.  All of it wears really well. I'm glad I invested in it.

In my opinion the 90% jacket is about worthless.  My windshear fleece shirt from Cabelas is just as warm.

Their Ascent pants are the cat's meow, and the celcius vest is one of the best hunting buys I have made.

I just found a celcius jacket for sale cheap so I will be selling the 90%.  Thier traverse shirt (the thicker one if my names are mixed up) is a great item as well.  I have mistakenly hunted with that in July in CA for hogs and though it is not designed for hot weather at all, I was comfortable with UA heat gear under it.

I think it is worth the price if money is liquid, but their heavier stuff ($500 for a heavy coat) is insane.

Thus far, I have

Ascent pants
2x traverse shirts
celcius vest
90% jacket (will sell)
Celcius jacket (inbound)
and old mtn pants.

None were paid retail for, but all are great.  I think the 90% jacket with windproofing (which I believe they have in the jetstream jacket) would be good.

I nearly froze my arse off in August in CA wearing the above, but only till the sun hit me.  It packs well and wicks better than anything around.

But I think the Optifade is 99% marketing.  Flannel has still been worn by more successful hunters.  

My camo is a mix of the mtn mimicry, and realtree as that is what I could get on sale.

Good luck

I was in the Hamburg Cabelas store yesterday  and they had a lot of it 50% off. If you're close by and considering it, could be worth a drive.

Has anyone tried the heated vest?
Late season Minnesota can be downright brutal, it is hard to get enough layers on to stay warm and not inhibit drawing the bow.
I have owned KOM and SI along with windstop sweaters for years which are great, however the windchills get way below zero come December.

It is on sale on the Cabela's website, as well.

I was just at Cabelas and tried on the Celcius jacket. If I was wearing that this morning (28 degrees out) I would have froze I'd bet. It was also very tight in the armpit area. If you're a little bit bubba sized, you might feel like a 5 pound sausage in a 3 pound bag wearing this jacket and if you have short arms, the sleeves will be long on you by a good amount. I did like the vest and pants though.

I have the Celcius bibs.  Not for cold weather.  I also have a light jacket maybe the 90%.  Maybe it's just me, but they put these damned underarm zippers on it.  They make noise when drawing.  I have a light pair of pants.  Incredable durability.  A while ago I almost bought the whole package.  Sure glad I didn't.  I'd go with wool for cold weather.

Bowmania

I have several Sitka items both 90% Jacket and Pants, T-zip and core shirts, Celcius Vest,pull over hat,full face mask, and Ascent pants. To be honest I love the stuff as I have always perfered to layer clothing and avoid huge bulky clothing or stiff unflexiable clothing while bow hunting. Temps here average about 20 to 60 degrees all winter so by laying with one or two pairs of thermal underware such as polar fleece cabelas or rocky brands I stay very warm even down to the  20's on stand for a few hours and when moving around I can remove the vest open the zippers some so I don't get to hot and start sweating. The best features to me are the nice tight fit to the body,abilty to layer so I can use it on warmer and colder days Vs a huge heavy outfit I can only use a few times a year, and the stuff last really well mine has not faded nor shows any wear after alot of trips to the woods. If I was looking for a outfit for a minus 0 snow hunt I would look for something else as stated the 90% is for use 90% of the time if its really bad and crazy cold its time to get something else out. And yes the real heavy Stika gear is crazy high I don't own any of it just can't swing $400 for a single piece of clothing and I think they have discontinued the Mothwing camo that does not make my happy I am not a big fan of the Optifade myself but love the mothwing it blends inin a tree,on the ground,brush, open country just about everywhere I have wore it.

Guys i bought the heavy weight jacket and pants that the Drury brothers have out and wore it in canada in sub zero weather and its the best i have found for cold weather bow hunting. The jacket has a thick wool liner and tons of pockets and draw straps on the side to tighten up all the loose spots.  :thumbsup:

I have tried most of the Sitka stuff. Base layer shirts, Traverse shirt, Ascent pants, Celcius hat, Traverse hat, Celcius vest, 90% jkt. and 90% pants.
I have sold everything except the vest, two hats, and the Traverse shirt (however, I am thinking of selling that also).
Sitka is the most comfortable hunting clothing I have ever worn, and if I was going to run the mountians chasing elk, antelope in the western plains or deer in Aug/Sept, I would be buying more.
However, I spend most of my time in treestands here in Mi, and with the Sitka gear I FROZE! Even in the early Oct. season I was constantly cold-cool.
A few pieces I do love are the Celcius hat and Travesrse hat combo. The Traverse hat alone is great. The Celcius hat alone is too big for my head, but with the T-hat underneath it is warm and very comfortable. In colder temps (below 30) I replace the T-hat for a Outdoor Research fleece skull cap under the Celcius. GREAT COMBO!
I also like the Celcius vest, the Celcius line seems to be the warmest (at least for me)and most windproof. Wish they made Celcius pants.
As for the anti-stink properties, I would say Sitka is good,but my merino wool (Woolpower, and First Lite) is much better in controlling odor. I just came back from a 10 day deer hunt in Colorado, I wore my First Lite Chamo everyday next to my skin. At the end of 10 days, yes it had some odor, but not too bad. I actually smelled worse then the shirt I was wearing!
I am real impressed with the First Lite clothing. Its comfort isn't equal to Sitka, however its close. I feel the FL clothing wicks moisture as good as Sitka, and there base layers are much warmer.  
If you scour the web you can find some great deals on Sitka clothing (that is how I bought most of mine). Sometimes, finding stuff more then half-off. I bought my Ascent pants off **** for $25!
If you are a warm blooded person or don't hunt in real cold weather, one should try some of the Sitka clothing. If you need something with more warmth take a close look at the First Lite line.
Just my 2 cents

chris <><

I'm going with Graywolf woolens!! Jason

Covey,
I am doing the same! Going completly to wool clothing.

chris <><

I don't know fellas, I've been using Sitka Gear exclusively for the last three seasons...I mean I have not worn another companies garment at all!

Yes some of you may know that I'm a part(as well as few other TGer's) of "Team Sitka", the "pro staff", whatever you want to call it.
So yes I get some gear from them, and I can get gear at a discount...bla, bla, bla....

But I've always been 100% honest with my assessments of the gear. That's what they want from us, no sugar coating, no hyping for the sake of sales, none of that non-sense. Just the truth.
If I didn't believe 100% in the stuff, I would no longer be affiliated with them.

I have found that the "core layers" are extremely well suited for early season active hunts, summer hunts when sweat needs to be quickly wicked away...I mean the best stuff I've ever worn!


But.... here's where some of you may be making a mistake and getting cold in Sitka Gear......

I find it to be very cold against my skin in cool/cold weather! I'm talking even at 35 degrees. I'm not the only one who's also found this to be the case.
But that said, others have found it to be just fine against their skin. Everyone's different.

But for me,no way, I can't last an hour in cold weather with it against my skin!

Now....switch that layer against your skin to the "Traverse" top and bottom, and it'll make all the difference in the world!

I've dealt with single digits with no problem! The Traverse layer has the best warm to weight ratio that I've used in a base layer. It's extremely "cozy" against the skin.

A "cold" base layer against your skin will take you out of the game no matter what's over the top of it!

Last year in about 8-9 degree weather I wore....

2 Traverse bottoms and 3 tops, my Celsius vest, Celsius bibs,Celsius jacket and stayed in my tree in about a 20mph biting,east wind coming off the Hudson River for about 4 hrs without a problem.....

That may sound like a lot of clothing, but the great thing about Sitka is it's so light and fits so well that it doesn't "wear you out" just wearing it.

I've worn a lot of different stuff over the years, and it gets very heavy on your body as you have to wear more as the mercury dips.

I know that the clothing I used to wear in the the weather I described above would have weighed nearly twice as much as my Sitka Gear. You really notice it not only wearing it, but when packing cloths in on a long walk so as not to sweat. We're talking pounds of difference....

Anyway, just my take on why some of you might be finding Sitka Gear to be not very well suited for cold weather.....

Guru,
I think you are right. For me the baselayers were so cold next to my skin it did not matter what I put over it.
I will try my Traverse shirt as my baselayer tomorrow.
I will report back my results.
Tomorrow's temps here in Michigan should be around the mid 20's so it will be a good test.

chris <><

Ive owned the mountain shirt and pants, the base layers, ascent pants the old celsius vest and the newest version. The older stuff was heavier than the new stuff and of course warmer because of it. I ended up selling most of the old stuff to try some new and that was a big mistake. The new stuff is not warm at all.

The ascent pants are awesome in the heat but I had a pair come apart in the seat and developed a hole after 30 days. Sitka fixed it on warranty but they charged me for the hole repair and patched it with different colored camo. Someone was color blind I guess.

I've switched over to Russell Outdoors apxg2. Its half the price, double and tripled stitched verses single, it stretches and fits snug too.  When layered right using the tundra layer over basspro's base layer, then one of the pant jacket sets and sometimes a light vest its real warm imo.

QuoteOriginally posted by Herdbull:
If you are in a treestand and don't move, I think anything should work; however, I like to film when I hunt so I don't want to be detected as much by birds either. I've gotten very close to hawks and eagles as well have had great close experience with many song birds and woodpeckers. I have been wearing the Optifade all season. I took a bear wearing it in Sept and this buck in October. Is it Optifade or did I just get lucky? Ha! Mike
  (http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff289/MittenM/hero/9pt09mike.jpg)

I don't think the Sitka gear got you a chance at those bucks, as opposed to the property you hunt.

Nice deer.

I don't know if Sitka really designed the Ascent or 90% to even be considered extreme cold weather gear as people are trying to use it. From my use and understanding I belive the Ascent is warm to mild weather style. The 90% seems more like a early fall style which you can use high tech heavy base layer(polartec mid to extreme weight underware)to get you into alittle colder weather for limted amount of time say a few hrs of stand hunting or a day of active/stalking style hunting in colder weather. The Celsius is just a step up from the 90% for those 20+ degrees days can be use for stand hunting a few hrs or active/stalking style hunting but a good under layer is still a must for really cold mornings.The Jet Stream has the  Wind stopper lining for alittle more protection in the wind and the Kelvin would be the best choice if you were looking for serious Cold Weather Gear but even it is considered a mid layer. I perfer the 90% and Celsius/Celsius vest because I can layer or not and wear it in temps from around 25 to 70 degrees which is about the temp range most of winter stays around here. Personally I have heavy wool/fleece wind stopper lined jacket/pants for those mega cold days but you will sweat moving around much in anything but exteme cold so I only get to wear it a few days a year which sometimes makes me wonder if its worth the price for such limted use.

JD, You are absolutely right, it all starts with the land. Knowing that a big guy is out there and I may have a chance encounter with him has kept me in so many all-day tree stands. I can't tell you how many hunts I've sat all day in sub zero weather; but it's the land that keeps calling me back. I just have to do it.

No matter what cloths I wear, I still can't make a deer come by unless it wants too. As long as I am comfortable enough and confident enough to take an animal when my time comes, it's all that matters to me. I can't remember the last time I didn't have fun hunting. Ha! I'm sure you are the same way. Mike

GURU I agree.

I don't have the Sitka warm weather wicking stuff, have the traverse though.  

My UA Heat Gear makes me very cold when the temps drop.  But on hot days it is great!

This year in late-season Georgia I will be wearing the UA cold gear 2.0, Traverse top and Ascent pants, Celcius vest and jacket.  I think that will be plenty for single digits, but if not I will put on my windshear shirt from Cabelas.

ALso for backpack hunts I use my packable rainwear as an extra layer in the wind or when getting cold.  Hard to beat a rain set for holding in body heat, though any exertion will make it into a sauna.

Curt when you wore those 3 tops were they all the same size or did you have to have different sizes?
Jack

In december weather I wear traverse underneath and celcius on top.. if its windy and cold I put a cheap fleece vest on between and some wool socks(the key component) good boots.  If you can't stand hunt in decembr n that maybe knitting would be a better hobby! Keeping your feet and your head and hands warm is 3/4 of the battle folks.  That traverse mask they sell is worth its weight in gold!

I have the 90% jacket and the fit is great but the performance is nothing special, nothing you can't get in cheaper gear.  I recently picked up a pair of celcius bibs and they sure don't look like cold weather gear.  Again, they are well constructed.  I am concerned about the shell on the bibs, it looks like it would get easily shredded.  Anybody with experience on this?  IMO the Sitka is decent gear for some situations if you can get it at a substantial discount (ie 50%).  When its cold I'll wear my wool.

Guru,
I tried the Traverse shirt as my base layer this morning.
First the T-shirt is very nice againist your skin. Over top of this I wore Woolpower 400wt, then a Filson wool sweater, then Celcius vest over top.
Temp this morning was 19 degrees with a slight breeze. I was comfortable in my treestand for a  three hour sit.
Now I can use the T-shirt as a baselayer on those cold mornings, then as a outer layer in the early season.
Thanks for the tip Guru!

chris <><

Jack, 2 lg, and the next XL....

FF, I totally agree that "hands and feet are 3/4 of the battle"....I was out today, and underestimated the wind, and high moisture in the air....

My feet got a little cold, as I didn't have my extra big 2000gm rubber boots on, and only had one pair of sox on...they were cold, but tolerable...

My hands took a beatin'!  I usually have chemical handwarmers in my pockets in cold weather...didn't think I needed them today, but I was wrong....

Good thing is though, my body was toasty warm in my Sitka Gear!

Traverse bottoms, 2 Traverse tops, Celsius bibs and jacket....

I'm with Curt on this one but I start with a layer of silk then 2 layers of traverse tops and bottoms and the older Sitka 90% top and pants plus the vest. I use silk gloves and socks with another pair of wool socks. Like Curt said even with my 4 layers on, I don't feel crowded at all and comfy down to the single digits.

Everybody is different and nothing is perfect when sitting in a cold stand or blind for hours and hours. I will often sit on a sleeping bag to keep my butt off the cold stand and when my feet start getting cold which always happens first I can stuff them in the bag for awhile to warm them up.  :)  

Tracy

Been intrigued by this stuff, but quite frankly just figuring out what to where takes a PHD

I use grey wolf wool with the wind liner from 50 to as cold as it gets and am always comfortable, rain - snow - wind, any weather. Sat through a 3 day hurricane this fall in 40 degree weather driving rain, comfy all day.  It is 7 years old and carrying my lone wolf treestand and monkey harness have worn holes that have/do need repair, but always comfy. I hunt mostly public land in steep country and regularly go a mile or better in-further if posible.  Heavy - yea, sweat when humping hills and dragging deer - sure, but still warm and comfy when wet and it does breath allowing cooling without the slightest chill. Always comfy. When time to replace will go wool again.  Like well tuned wood arrows, if it works don't change it.

Mike

Michael, If you're happy with what you have, then    :clapper:  .

But I don't understand your "PHD" way of thinking?

Thanks Curt.
Jack

Sitka gear, KOM, SI, Gray Wolf are all great products. How you wear them is how you stay warm. You can the latest and greatest but if you do not know how to layer then the money spent is wasted.

Loose and layers is key...I wear merino wool so I start out with light weight and then add a medium or heavy weight set depending on the cold. Next is Gray Wolf bibs with lining and either a lined pullover or heavy jacket again depends on how cold it is.

Hands, feet, and head - for my hands I use military wool liners, muff, and hand warmers (weather dependent), for my feet Smart Wool socks with liners and boots that fit...if your boots are too tight then you are wasting your time with thick socks. I always have a face mask (light or heavy, and two caps...start with one if you are still cold put the other on.

I am cold by nature and have this down to a science except for boots. I have a hard time finding EEE boots to go with my heavy and extra heavy socks. Finally found some and hope they do the trick.

Been watching for awhile and could not take it anymore. All the clothing lines mentioned have good and bad about them it is up to each individual to do the research to figure out what is best for them. All the companies have phones and email for a reason.

Best of luck in your search.

Curt- I feel your pain; my feet are 11 1/2 EEE and its really hard to find boots in that size !

I am working outside with duo fold longjohns (which are poly on the skin side; and merino wool on the outside and bluejeans over that; because I am getting dirty while working. And its right at zero where I am. I am wearing a polypropylene top next to the skin; ( no cotton t shirt underneath) and a carhart jacket over that.
I also just got some polypropylene sock liners; and they have really improved my ability to keep my feet warm - with boots that were with the same socks... and no liners.
For hunting; I am going to wear UA with the duo fold over that; with UA underwear too. Then cold weather goretex pants
On the top it will be UA with a fleece layer and then a wool zip up over that; and then a goretex parka.
As I have the wounded knee; I am going to stand hunt in a blind; and when I can get the time I am going to see how the setup works.
Right now - I am trapped on my property with 10 GWP 2 day old puppies....
I am so ready to try out the new gear....

I have KOM, SI and a full set of Sitka Gear I have the 90% pants, jacket, vest and the under wear tops and bottoms..... My main hunting buddy has the same get up and it is second to none for us hear in Colorado from early elk to late whitetail. The only area that I think it is a little  weak is late season stand hunting where in my opinion nothing keeps you warm! This is were the KOM and SI come in though and good ol wool layered right does the trick.... just my opinion...

Anyone looking for Sitka gear on sale should checkout Camofire.com they have one item on super sale every 12 hours or something. I see Sitka stuff on their site a lot.

Guru made some really good points.  

I would still like to add some of the Kelvin to my cache, but in the meantime, when it gets SUPER cold (like 0 degrees) and I'm not moving, I have to insert an additional insulating layer in there on top of my base layers and under my Celsius.  I've still got some old Winona so that is usually what I use.  That said, I too have been largely impressed with the Sitka products or else I'd be using something else.  I believe the items I bought in '07 I will still be using in '17.  Seriously.

One has to remember that this company really started with an emphasis on the mountain or active hunting (elk, sheep, etc.), and I am just amazed at how well their products work for those regimens.  Stretchy 'pants' are such a great thing when you're hoofing it great distances or climbing, even if it simply means climbing up a tree or walking through high grass on the way back out of the woods after a hunt.  And flexible raingear, and moisture-managing inner layers...

I still think they have a couple of needs to fill for the tree stand guy, but remember that our needs go from sub-zero to sitting in a 100-degree antelope blind.  It's a tall order, and like arrowflingers above says, nothing really keeps you completely warm in the worst conditions (at least not while allowing you to still shoot a bow).  And Chris's comment above about tight boots is spot-on.

For those wanting to try out Sitka, but not ready to pay full price, now is a GREAT time to find discounts as most stores will want to close out their remaining line so they can restock in '10 with all new items.

Went out today...10 degrees, wind chill right about ZERO!

I finally got the chance to use my new Kelvin jacket and it's phenomenal!  I have never,ever been so comfortable, in weather like this, in my life!

I highly recommend it as a layer under your outer jacket. That's what it's designed for...layering.I had it over two Traverse shirts, and under my Celcius jacket...outstanding!

The best part is that is so lightweight that you don't even feel like its on. It's made out of very light nylon which makes it easy for layers under and over to slide on the draw. It's the easiest feeling draw I've ever had in weather like this. very quiet under my jacket as well.  

Even if you don't wear Sitka gear....I highly, highly recommend this as a layer to combat the cold!

TG'er Steve O told me he loved his Kelvin vest earlier this fall and that I would love my jacket...he was right!

Without a doubt the best layer I've ever used against the cold.

Just thought I'd pass this along....

:thumbsup:  

Folks that don't think this gear works aren't using it right; they are tring to do things the OLD way with NEW stuff--guys have to open their minds and try new things...it's good stuff.

Most guys would walk up to a Kelvin vest or jacket and rub their fingernail on it and say, NO WAY, that is too noisy.  The thing is, it is never meant to wear on the outside, it is made to be an inner layer and slide silently inside the layer on top of it and it does that very, very well.  It weighs maybe a pound, is incredibly warm (wet or dry), transports moisture away from you (just like the other layers under it) and moves with you; unlike that 10lb wool jacket that now sits in my cedar chest!

QuoteOriginally posted by Steve O:
Most guys would walk up to a Kelvin vest or jacket and rub their fingernail on it and say, NO WAY, that is too noisy.  The thing is, it is never meant to wear on the outside, it is made to be an inner layer and slide silently inside the layer on top of it and it does that very, very well.  It weighs maybe a pound, is incredibly warm (wet or dry), transports moisture away from you (just like the other layers under it) and moves with you; unlike that 10lb wool jacket that now sits in my cedar chest!

Well said bud    :clapper:

2 Traverse Shirts @ $89.00 per each $178.00

    Kelvin Jacket @ $210.00             $210.00

    Celcius Jacket @ $279.00            $279.00
                                       
                        $667.00    :scared:  


   Kinda goes along with another thread if you had $1000.00 would you outfit yourself with Sitka Gear or go on a hunt??

Tater, If for some reason you think I'm a wealthy guy because I wear Sitka and I started that other thread....you're wrong bud...in a big way. Just ask my wife!

But I'm wealthy in other ways. Like the good friend and connections I've made here at TG that have allowed me to afford some nice things and some absolutely outstanding hunts.I thank god for my friends everyday!

But to answer your question Tater....I'm not going to let buying anything stop me from going on a hunt. I also don't live in Colorado where within a day I could hunt things that I only dream about in NY.


Back to Sitka...

Expensive..yes...but what quality product isn't?

I realise more than anyone, that the expense of Sitka keeps it out of reach of a lot of hunters. Believe me, I know how hard it is to save for anything.....

BTW...nows the time to buy some at real discount prices    :thumbsup:

QuoteOriginally posted by Tater:
2 Traverse Shirts @ $89.00 per each $178.00

    Kelvin Jacket @ $210.00             $210.00

    Celcius Jacket @ $279.00            $279.00
                                       
                        $667.00     :scared:  


   Kinda goes along with another thread if you had $1000.00 would you outfit yourself with Sitka Gear or go on a hunt??

$667 and your freezing your b@77s off, cause ya got no pants on  :eek:

How do the shirts/jackets work for someone that is 6'3".  If I do not order them in talls the sleeves and sometimes the tails of the shirts are not long enough.  From what I have seen they do not come in tall sizes.  Is that right.

I just got the 90% pants and jacket.  To be honest I was worried about spending that amount of cash on camo (I'm a cop so no golden spoon here!)  Anyway I put the stuff on and went for a scouting run for my late season doe tag(pretty much the same way I hunt out here) The weather was 24 degrees and light snow,  and all I can say is wow!!!!!!!!!!  I am buying everything in Sitka from now on for hunting and late season flyfishing.  I can't believe what this stuff is like in comfort and performance!  The pants and jacket with a silk base layer and I was fine! (I didn't sit and glass for a long time though) I'm not sure if i would be willing to buy it for just sitting in a treestand (I will do that also though) but if your on the ground moving and putting on 5 miles plus in the morning, there is nothing better!  I will add a base layer bottom, 2 base layer tops, bivy pack and one of the vests by spring turkey. I plan on having a second set by elk season!  They best thing about this stuff is I can put the 90% jacket, base layer top, base layer bottom,socks, boxers (everything I carry for a few day bivy hunt) and not even come close to the amount of room my old jacket took up in my pack!  Is it expensive yes, but worth every cent if you hunt in the back country by foot!

Agree with tater.  There are definitely advantages of sitka gear in active hunting situations and you don't need 5 layers of it.  

Bottom line is that sitka is designed after mountaineering clothing and its perfect for hunting in the mountains which is generally an active hunt/physically demanding hunt.  

In order for sitka to grow as a business they need the largest audience of hunters out there and that is the whitetail hunter.  Prior to sitka gear, I never heard of whitetail hunters breaking out their mountaineering clothing to go sit on a stand.

What I find most interesting is that it started as a question of is this stuff that good, opinions welcome.  Now it has turned into a sales pitch by a sitka pro-staffer.

Curt,
      I did not mean to ruffle anyone's feathers, never implied anything as far as I can tell from my post other than Sitka Gear is expensive. Only stating the facts there.

      It is excellent clothing and yes I own some. If you hunt the mountains as I do, where it can be 20deg F when you leave camp and 80deg F in the afternoon. You definately need to layer.
     

     If I am hunting woodlot Whitetails and a 45 min walk from my truck or sitting in a treestand all day, I dought it.

No worries Tater...no doubt it excels out west, the guys from Sitka are working hard at adding pieces of gear for the hard core treestand hunter. Is it perfect...no, nothing is. But I have found it to have the highest "warmth to weight" ratio of anything I've ever worn.


Rappstar, sorry you see it that way, just trying to pass along something I tried out, and worked great this weekend.


Just added my findings on a thread that was asking about Sitka gear. Isn't that what TG is about, trying to help others"thru experience"?  Have you tried the gear I'm talking about?

Hey Curt,

I haven't bought any of the heavier weight Sitka gear.  I only own the 90% and I use it for elk hunting.  Works great for that scenario.  So I'm not bagging on Sitka, excuse me if it seems that way.

Your "experience" reminds me of something that happened to me one time.  I used to hunt ducks and geese a lot.  Never really liked to eat them but founds ways to get it done.  I felt like I had to eat them since I killed them.

A friend came over one day and I was making some goose.  He asked if it was good...and I replied "of course its good!"  I then explained how you need to cook it.  Put two birds in a big crock with beef broth on low for about 6 hours.  The meat will just fall off the bone at that point.  Pull the meat off, drain the crock and then put all of the meat back into the crock.  Now pour a bottle of KC Masterpiece BBQ sauce into the crock and cook on low for an hour or so.  It comes out like shredded beef and tastes great!

He said "So it doesn't take like goose at all?"

Sorry but your "experience" is coming across as a sales pitch to me.

The original question of "is it worth it" is subjective so everyone is going to have an opinion.  

Have you weighed your old cold weather hunting garments and compared that weight to your cold weather Sitka garments?

I have no idea what your "experience" with your taste buds and cooking have to do with Sitka Gear      

But, Like I said, some people will never understand...too bad   :rolleyes:  

No need for a scale, I've worn both and my "experience" is from hunting with both of them.......

For the guys that aren't looking to argue their opinions and accuse others of being something they're not, I hope you can see that I'm just passing along my findings.

Like I said on another thread, "If I didn't believe in it....I wouldn't use it"...bottom line....is it for everyone...no

Arrowslinger....Sitka does come in Tall sizes bud....

Guru, thanks for the info.  I have not been able to find any of the tops in tall and thats where I usually run into problems.  I looked on the sitka site and they do not even offer the tops in tall.  Figured I would catch JC or Biggie at the hunting club and get my hands on some of theres to compare.  I would like to make sure the sleeves are long enough before I spend that kind of money.

Here is the deal.

The more difficult your hunt, the more you will appreciate Sitka Gear.  If you are walking out on the back 40, do you need it, is it the best piece of equiptment for the job???--probably not, but if you already have it for your elk hunts, sheep hunts, goat hunts, mooose hunts, brown bear hunts, or grizzly hunts and it works better than anything else, why not use it back home...overkill as it were.

I've spent a solid month hunting sheep in my Sitka Gear, it is still like new.  It is going to last me forever.  Over twenty, thirty, or fourty years, the cost is practically nothing.  I hoped while I was saving for it that it would be as good as all the hype...I think it is.

Sales Pitch? Hardly. Curt...nice response and very good input. For the record...My name is Peter Iacavazzi and I'm the director of pro staff for Sitka Gear.

Sitka did originally start as an active layering system for the mountain hunter. It was designed to be quiet, easy to wear and comfy. All of which it is. But as the demand for high quality hunting/camo emerged, Sitka Gear was propelled into a market for all.

Sitka responded by trying to create a warmer, quieter, and less "Bulky" system. They did very well. Than they joined forces with "Gore-Tex" and continued on the path of developing high quality, functioanl hunting gear. But, Sitka is designed to be a "layering" system. Those who have worn it as such, have seen and FELT the benefits of Sitka.

Each year Sitka continues to develop warmer, quieter, functionl clothing for the serious hunter.

It is more exoensive than other lessor brands. But, with Sitka...you get what you pay for. High quality, functional, superior hunting clothing for the demanding sportsman.

Sitka has greatly expanded their line and continues to do as such. We at Sitka are hoping to appeal to all hunters. The Sept elk hunter and the Dec treestand hunter. Our Gear is fully warrenteeed, highly functional and designed to be worn as a layering system. We welcome feedback (both positive and negative). We will continue to develop that best gear on the market.

Our desire is to be the best for all hunters. Sitka was started by (2) hard core trad bow hunters. But we are now mainstream with all hunters. However, with that said we will always remain loyal to our roots of hardcore trad bow hunters.

I suggest you give Sitka Gear a try and see for yourself why so many hunters/sportsman and outdoorman and woman have embraced Sitka Gear as their gear of choice.

For the record...This is no sales pitch!

Peter Iacavazzi
Director Pro Staff Sitka Gear
www.sitkagear.com (http://www.sitkagear.com)
piacavazzi@sitkagear.com

I just bought a bunch of the Sitka clothing on sale from Cabela's for half price. I have been wearing mountaineering clothing for many years, having joined REI back in the 1960's when it was still a relatively small co-op for people who wanted the latest mountaineering equipment. Of course, there have been many advances in materials and designs over the years. Now all of that stuff is pretty mainstream with almost everyone I know wearing it. I feel like the song, "I was country when country wasn't cool".

I already had quite a bit of the mountaineering clothing and would wear it under my camo hunting gear. The problem was that almost no camo was truly state of the art in design and materials until Sitka Gear started making its products. Their biggest accomplishment was they created a "system" that incorporated existing technologies but designed them for use in hunting scenarios with camo patterns, pockets, layering, etc., that fit the needs of hunters. When you compare the Sitka Gear products to similar mountaineering clothing made by companies like The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Cloudveil, Marmot, and others, the prices are similar. But most of the other companies are not making systems that are designed specifically to fit our needs as hunters. Browning has come out with a new system of hunter clothing that is very nice. I tried it on and the sales rep told me it was better than Sitka Gear, but I did not agree. If I had to pay retail for both brands, I might pick the Browning; however, at the half off sales price, I did not even think twice about the Browning when I ordered the Celcius bibs, vest and jacket, the 90% pants and jacket, the Traverse beanie, the Core top, and the ball cap. I would have ordered the Traverse top and bottom and the Core bottom, but they were out of stock. I did end up buying the Power Dry Polarfleece top and bottom made by Cabela's because it is similar to the Traverse top and bottom and will probably do fine. I figure if I need to strip down to just a lightweight top, the Core top will work fine, and I could layer it over another long underwear top if I needed a little extra warmth.

Admittedly, I have only tried on the Sitka Gear and wore it around outside for awhile this weekend. I have not hunted in it yet to see how it performs in the field, but based on having used mountaineering clothing in hunting environments and experiencing the way the Sitka Gear initially feels, I think it will be great. Not only that, I have talked to many people who have used the Sitka Gear, and the only complaints have been about warmth until people learned how to layer up. Well, I guess people complain about how much it costs too, and that is a legitimate concern.

I wanted the Sitka Gear for things like elk, moose, sheep, bear and other cool/cold weather hunting where I will either be very active or need to travel by aircraft to get there. I need to have all my hunting clothing fit into a reasonable space, whether in the bags that will be going into limited space on an aircraft (especially bush planes) or will be put into my backpack to transport to a fly camp or to carry on my daily hunting treks. Some wool, like long underwear, caps, gloves, or other small items work well in those situations, but most wool outer garments get bulky and heavy. There are various problems with other clothing too, which is why the mountaineering folks started creating clothing for those conditions. Would I spend the kind of money it takes to buy all the Sitka Gear just to drive my car to an area to hunt for deer, hogs or other animals, particularly when I was normally hunting from a tree stand or a ground blind? Heck no! I'm not sure that the current Sitka Gear would even be the best clothing for the job under those circumstances.

I appreciate the input from Curt, JC and many others here on TradGang about their experiences with Sitka Gear. What they say is very similar to what I hear from everyone else I have talked to about the clothing, but it is nice to have people I trust confirming my impressions. I bet my 1/2 off purchases of Sitka Gear from Cabela's are about as good as what the "pro-staffers" paid for theirs. I know JC and can personally confirm he would not say anything about Sitka Gear that wasn't factually true, and I believe Curt is the same. I doubt I will be alive 40 years from now like Steve O, and I definitely will not be hunting by then, but it is good to know that Steve thinks the Sitka Gear will last that long.

Arrowslinger, I am 6'1" and weigh 185 pounds and large regular length fits me perfectly in all the Sitka Gear clothing. The large regular pants have an inseam of 32" and the large long pants have an inseam of 34". In jeans I wear 34"w x 34"l, but the large regular Sitka Gear pants (both the Celcius bibs and the 90% pants) at 32" fit perfectly. At 6'3" you would probably want the long pants unless you are long-waisted.

Allan

Peter, Curt, Steve O,

I have recently made the Sitka Gear switch. Low weight and high mobility are the reason I love the stuff.
I need a recommendation for the bottom half of me, as I can't quite figure out from Sitka's system on their website which pants/bibs are the best for my particular use. I hunt in Texas where I live, and during deer season I need to be warm while stand hunting (tree or Double Bull on the ground) from 10-50 degrees F, so I bought a Jetstream Jacket and Kelvin vest. I wear Under Armour next to my skin, then Patagonia expedition weight Capilene top and bottoms over that, then the Kelvin vest, then the Jetstream jacket. I just was sitting in the Double Bull at 19F last Friday with slightly cold toes and fingers, that's it. I was not using especially warm gloves or boots either. Moved to a treestand in the early PM, and got snowed on. Maybe a tad chilly on my arms.  

I need the Sitka bib or pant that can do it all. I can't figure it out....should I get the Celsius, Stormfront or Coldfront to protect the bottom half of me? How do I differentiate between the 3 pants systems?

I'd love an answer from a Sitka expert! Thanks!

-HPF

(I'm also planning an outermost layer jacket and hat in 2010.....and I am selling all my hardcore Patagonia shells and layering systems since Sitka works exactly the same)

Lots of good info on these post I am sure having Sitka pro staff reading and posting here will only help to improve the Sitka clothing line even more.I wore the 90% pants, 90% jacket, Celcius vest,Traverse zip shirt, and Traverse full fast mask all weekend and about 4 hrs of heavy fog/light rain and temps from 20 to almost 70 degrees by Sunday afternoon. I stayed dry and happy temp wise all weekend while I walked, stalked, and climbed into a few stands and sat for a hour or so every so often.I must have walked 10 miles over the last two days I am sore today!

I could see getting the jacket and pants for the early season, but I'm just to cheap to buy the whole "system".  I like to use clothes I already have to layer with, polypro, light or mid weight fleece, wool etc.  Personally I can't justify $80 for a ployester baselayer, made in china? when I can get military poly for $20

I like the cut and fit of the outer layers and think that is the best aspect of this stuff.

I tend to agree with you the only core layer Sitka itms I have were a Christmas gifts you can get some real nice lite,mid,heavy weight polartec base layers for $20 or less a item. I bought the outer layers 90% and Celcuis on sale myself also. The one under layer item I might pay for is the Traverse Zip shirt I really like mine alot and the hand warmer type sleeve with thumb hole is a cool feature I use that shirt all the time.

I sat in a tree stand for 12 hours last Friday. The morning temperature was 8 degrees, it rose to 15 by 5:00 PM. I was wearing Sitka core, 2 traverse shirts, 2007 vest, Kelvin Jacket and 2009 Celsius Jacket. For the bottom I wore core layer, 2008 Celsius bib, and 2007  90% Pants. The reason I put the dates on there is because Sitka has been evolving and some of the products are no longer available, but made from diffrent material.

I also wore 2 hats and 2 face masks. Your heat may not leave out of the top of your head any faster than other exposed body parts, but it often gets over looked. I see guys wearing 4 or 5 layers on their body core and only a single hat on their top-not... and then wonder why they got cold. I called Friday a 4 hat day.... but the wind was slight.
Sure I got cold a little from time to time, but I work my way through it by wiggling toes and pulling fingers back into my gloves etc. I rarely sit for less than 6 hours, and all day sits have been my most productive technique for whitetails.

Oh yes.... I saw 17 does & fawns, and 9 diffrent bucks. I did not shoot anything, but I know the  the big guy I'm after is still out there. Ha! Mike

I'd die of boredom before the weather got me through my Sitka system......

The last item I purchased for my Idaho elk hunt was a base layer 1/4 zip top. Picked it up at what used to be the Sportsmans Warehouse in Missoula. I probobly was set with what I had, but after having just finished Mike's book and his endorsment of the Sitka gear I thought I would be remiss if I didn't try it under full on conditions. It certainly was spendy, I'll say that. But it was pretty darn hot the first few days(close to 90*) and the one day I wore an older duafold I found out the difference. If I hunted all out west I'd have the whole shabangy, but I would not pay the top retail price like I did, I have since seen many better prices on line. One thing I'd like to add is that I tried a little experiment on our coldest morning(22*) was wearing the lighter weight Ullfrotte underneath the Sitka and I think I may have found the most comfortable, breathable combo to get me to the top in the cold hours of the morning. Afternoon warmed up pretty good and I took off the Ulfrotte and was pretty amazed that the whole thing was bone dry-neat trick!! The lesson I learned is that the guys that have walked the walk are to be listened to, thanks Mike!

I miss the padded knees in my King of the Mountain wool, so Sitka is taking the suggestion seriously and we should see padding in the pant next year for stalking and crawling up on game. Also, I have voiced my concern with Sitka that I think they lost a little ground in the noise department when I compare the Down Pour and Nimbus Rain Gear from 07 & 08 to the Storm Front rain gear of 09. I hope the 2010 line of rain gear is a little quieter, since a lot of us use it as a wind breaker and protection in wet willow and dwarf birch brush not just when it rains and there is a muffled effect. They should consider noise factor in all of the line if it is to be used as hunting gear. We try to help.

Herdbull, I knew you were a man, but an all-dayer in that kind of weather.  Wow.  

The durability factor is a hard thing for many to see in a short year or two or three unless you hunt HARD and A LOT.  I get in 80-100 deer hunts alone every year (at 83 right now this year), plus scouting/shed hunting/fishing/turkeys/etc.  And the last three years have been in Sitka, and the gear just seems to wear like iron.  Steve O's claim that the stuff will still be around 20+ years is probably right.  And when played out that long, the cost becomes much more manageable.  My goal is to be able to put together some cash for the Kelvin jacket for next year.

I bought some Zeiss binoculars in 1987 and they're still serving me well today.  At the time I was a poor young guy but had a connection to get factory second Zeiss's.  Even then, the price was outlandish for me and I really debated that purchase.  I figure how many times I've used 'em since that day and it's well below a dime each time, probably close to a nickel.  Good quality gear lasts.

Yeah I dropped $1200 on my 10X50s Leicas back in 1999 and since added some 10X40 military Leicas in 08, they are lighter to carry. Outfitted my Sendero 300 WinMag  with a German made Zeiss Diavari 3-9X40 and I never shoot it since the Widows came to stay at my house......yes freakin' expensive, but worth every penny and I'll never need to replace these optics, my Widows, or Sitka Gear.

Gosh, Bryce, there aren't many people who hunt 25% of the days each year! Way to go.

Allan

Ihavnt read all the posts but most, My $.02 I have a celcius Jacket, I really Like it Quiet-Windblocker Form fitting, with a Base silk layer, a thermal top of some sort and this jacket its great in the 30*s if your moving, it can be colder and youll be comfy.  I ahve tried the Ascent pant I really love it's weight and flexability.
Fit is a bit poor on most sitka. Bottom line for COLD treestand hunting, not necessarily a good idea for me, I need more.  I dont have much body fat though so that might help.  I dont know that the $$$ value justifies the entire product though, 1/2 price...SURE

I have a question.
What's with the "pit-zips"?
I have always thought it best to keep any scent contained rather than let it out into the air. I can't imagine a time that I would open them. The cost would certainly be less without them. Maybe they should be an option.
Jack

QuoteOriginally posted by Jack Denbow:
I have a question.
What's with the "pit-zips"?

Jack

They are to let some heat out after that long hike to your morning glassing spot, or treestand.

I don't know Sitka's cost structure, but I know that more options per garment raises costs across the board because if they mis-judge demand on one or the other, they eat that inventory and up all charges the next year.

I agree that it is pretty durable stuff.  THe biggest reason I took the plunge after giving my buddies such a hard time about paying Nordstrom prices for hunting clothes was the fit.  I am 5'7" and 155lbs.  I have never had a pair of camo pants fit me without needing to be tailored, which puts the price of their gear on sale cheaper than a pair of predator or realtree pants from cabelas.

Also it dries extremely fast.  A great friend of mine, and an ardent stand-out for buying Sitka got back from Kodiak and ordered about 2/3 of their line.  His partner there had Sitka and after a hard day of hunting, it only took minutes for him to be dry in the clothes he was wearing.  My buddy had to change clothes.

It's quiet, but is expensive.  You can find deals if you look.

I went out yesterday and did 10 stands for bobcats and bears, then hiked about 8 miles looking for one last bear in the high country before they bedded down, or vacated the area for warmer country down low.

It was 20deg when I got out of the truck for my first 2 hour sit/glassing location.  I was wearing a Celcus jacket, Cabelas Windshear fleece shirt, and a traverse shirt.  Pants were only the traverse pants.  Beanie and thin gloves rounded it out.  I was warm and comfy except my butt or knees from sitting/kneeling.  I should have worn a second layer down low.

Z- I'm in exactly the same situation here at 155lb. All my pants need tailoring, & I have to buy mixes of everything usually to accommodate my build. Sitka fits right out of the gate.

A few comments for you Sitka reps.

I'm really disappointed that the Mountain Mimicry camo seems to be getting phased out. I really like that pattern, much more than the digital pattern.

I think cost could be reduced some by reducing all the darn zippers, vents, etc. that I bet very few people actually use, but adds to the cost.  I mean has anyone actually ever used the arm zip pocket on the base layer?  The roll-up snaps on pants, etc?  A lot of neat little gizmos but they add cost and I really doubt are used much by most.

If people used the "features", they might find they help- and are very nice to have.  I use the zip pits EVERY time I wear my Sitka Gear, whether it is climing a mountain for sheep or elk, or walking to a whitetail or brown bear stand.  They help very effectively to blow out the moisture you are making when exerting yourself, no matter how little you raise your heartrate.

During Thanksgiving week, I was hunting by myself about 6 hours from home.  I promised my wife I would keep my cell phone with me for safety.  I put it in one of the OUTSIDE pockets of my 90% jacket which I was using as my outer layer.  My phone stopped working.  I later figured out this was due to moisture.  I use this example to illustrate how well Sitka Gear manages moisture.  It doesn't just wick it off your skin, it moves it thru every layer and out to the atmosphere.  You don't want all that moisture stuck in your clothes.

If you notice, on all the pants, there is a rubber like band on the inside of your waist.  My shirt never pulls out when climing...mountains or treestands.  Almost every day, during my month long sheep hunt in Colorado, I had to cross a stream to get to where the ram I was hunting was...I was glad I had that little loop and snap to keep my pant legs rold up.

I have said this before; the harder your hunt is, the more you will appreciate your Sitka Gear.

The same goes with the price tag.  When I am walking thru a dew covered meadow in the dark, I sure am glad I paid the extra $30 for those Ascent pants that are going to be dry 5 minutes into my 2 hour climb.

Sometimes the best things in life are not the cheapest...think about it.  I will shop around to find the best thing at the best price for sure, but you can't expect a Suburban for the price of a Kia.

John, I hear you, but I like to wear just the base layers for our early season deer hunts and often do have something in that little bicep pocket:  milkweed pod with wind indicators, my cell phone, car keys, SD cards for trail cams, etc.  Obviously when I'm using them for layering, they are not used.

And I'm on your side on the Mountain Mimicry; it's a pattern I REALLY like and this is very versatile.  Gore Industries have apparently come up with a new style of Optifade (saw it in a magazine) and word is that Sitka will carry it too.  I hope this does not mean the MM will be phased out soon.

Jack, I don't use the pit zips as much as I should, often forgetting they're there until I'm halfway there (back to the rig, or on the way to the stand) and I realize I'm starting to generate some heat.  I do like the feature and I wish some running gear had that feature.

SteveO mentioned something I really like and that is the quick-drying capabilities of most items in the line.  A walk through the high grass to my tree stand doesn't mean I have to endure three hours on stand with wet legs.  Nice feature.

My suggestion for anyone 'wondering' about Sitka Gear would be to try to find some season-ending sales and start with the base layers, top and bottom and gradually work your way outward if you find you like them.

I would not buy any serious hunting jacket without the pit zips! Pit zips and back vents are number 1 and 2 in keeping upper body temp regulated when working hard. Even better is two front zip vents along side main zipper as well. Cool core down and prevent moisture build up when working hard. Of course you have to work hard to need these features, they are not for everyone. Love my Sitka gear!

I went and bought some for my late season elk hunt.
I bought the celsius bibs, core layer, traverse layer, 90% pants, kelvin vest and jacket, traverse Balacava, jetstream hat and gloves.
I really, really like the traverse and core layers. Awesome. And the bibs were great too. All around a good buy.
I had single digit mornings and it didn't get higher than 30. I was active some times, not active other times. I sat against a tree on a ridge in the high wind with snow flurries and was comfortable.
I layered the core, traverse, vest, then the bibs and jacket. Some days I put an Arc Teryx fleece pullover in between, others I didn't. I was really overheated with that extra fleece layer and stripped that off. Some days I reversed the traverse and core layer, others I just did the traverse on the bottoms...really experimented different combo's.
Overall, I'm really impressed. I'll be buying the ascent gear next for my summer hunting out here. That Balacava is really great.
What I ended up with for most mid days were the traverse layers on the bottom, traverse and core on top, vest, and bibs, with the jacket on my pack.

Oh now I have gone and done it. Bought a Stormfront jacket off that auction site just now for $100 off and free shipping!

Happy Chanukkah to me. Xmas will be even better!

(yes I celebrate both)

I bought mine in Optifade. Really good camo. I think they are phasing out MM since I've heard guys getting it for 50% off.
The Kelvin Vest and Jacket are really great for keeping warm...but no pit zips on the Jacket.
I usually load up my inner pockets with handwarmers for core warmth, but I didn't need to with the Kelvin Vest over the Traverse and Core layers and the bibs over the vest. Just kept handwarmers in the bib handwarmers pockets to keep my fingers warm.
I can see myself spending more money on more pieces in the future.

I'm a nut about ultra light high quality hunting gear. And I'll pay dearly to have the best. Sitka has caught my eye and I'm in the process of building a hunting wardrobe out of it.

I will definately put it to the test!

Mike W.- If you saw the buck that I had at 40 yards during November coming right at me behind a doe, you wouldn't think it was that cold either. Ha!  It was the perfect set-up, until the doe turned right and never let the buck within my range. He is still out there and made it through all three gun seasons. He is 6 1/2 years old and one of the biggest that I have had the pleasure to be in the woods with. So its just me and him until the season ends! Oh.... my brother is after him too since he missed him in 2007. :>) Mike

Sitka has the new pattern on their prostaff blog as of 12/09. It's sweet. Wonder who'll sell it?