I have been talking to a lot of hunters lately who have questions around gear.   To help both them and me I need to quickly discern their gear philosophy.  I want to provide with them good information that helps drive efficient, cost effective decisions.

I am going to use rain gear as an example.   While all 3 of the sets I mention below are all solid choices, other options do exist.

All purpose gear:
Gear that covers a broad spectrum of uses, i.e. moose camp to sheep camp.   Good, quality gear, but not overly burly or super light. First Lite Stormtight.
First Lite Stormtight
Light weight gear:
A specific, usually more expensive, gear set for the ounce counter.   Extended backpack expeditions, typically in alpine conditions. Sitka Dewpoint

Kodiak / SE Alaska / Western WA:
These hunters just need to stay dry, they live in their rain gear.  Number one concern is how to manage internal perspiration against continual downpours. KUIU Yukon

Most guys are in the all purpose crowd. Your decisions are easier to make and you can usually find good value purchases. Those that want specific gear for a specific activity need to turn up the research a bit. You will be spending more money, so research and try, and spend wisely.

Further complicating the issue is camo patterns, solid colors, and brand intrigue.  Certain brands do a good job of getting one’s attention. If you are “researched out” and still can’t make up your mind hit up a good forum like http://www.rokslide.com/, or reach out to gear junkies like me.