The Best Duck Hunting Jackets Of 2022: Waterfowl Coats To Keep You Warm, Dry, & Stealthy
When duck hunting, you are going to be exposed to severe weather conditions - freezing cold, harsh wind, and the occasional drizzle. Thus, the clothing you wear is of the utmost importance. And one of the best ways to stay warm and dry in your duck blind? A waterfowl jacket, of course!
But with so many brands and styles to choose from, which waterfowl jacket is best for you? Look no further, worry no more - the experts at Texas Fowlers are here to help guide you through this process. Today, we're going to unveil the best duck hunting jackets of 2022. These coats are sure to keep you warm, dry, and most importantly, stealthy. After all, the last thing you want is a noisy, vibrant jacket to blow your cover and cause birds overhead to keep flying.
Not only will you discover the best waterfowl jackets of the year in this article - but, you'll also uncover the criteria we used in ranking these coats. This information will help you identify which of these jackets is best for you in particular. Of course, we're here to help you get the most out of this purchase - which means we're going to start this article by discussing the importance of having a quality waterfowl coat in your wardrobe, and when you should (and shouldn't) wear yours. Let's dive in!
What is the importance of getting the best duck hunting jacket?
The best duck hunting jackets are designed to protect you from the cold, harsh elements you'll face while out in the field. They are usually made with waterproof and/or windproof materials to keep you dry when rain or snow starts to fall. Many duck hunting jackets also come equipped with features like insulated linings, hoods, and pockets - all of which work together to keep you warm in even the most extreme conditions. Of course, there are also convenient features to help you hunt - such as shell holders.
Another important aspect of duck hunting jackets is that they are usually designed to be very quiet. This is important because you don't want your clothing rustling or making any noise that could potentially scare away birds. Most waterfowl jackets are made with quiet fabrics like microfleece or soft-shell materials. They also feature camouflaging to keep you concealed in your blind. Never worry about having your cover blown and being spotted by birds flying overhead again!
When should you wear a duck hunting jacket?
So, when should you wear a duck hunting jacket? The answer is - it depends on the weather conditions and what type of coat you have. If it's cold and wet outside, then obviously you'll want to reach for your duck hunting jacket to stay warm and dry. But, if it's just chilly or you don't need all the features that a waterfowl jacket offers, then you can probably get away with wearing something else.
Keep in mind, though, that even if it's not freezing cold outside, ducks are more active in the early morning and late evening hours - when temperatures are cooler. So, if you're planning on duck hunting during these times (which we highly recommend), then you'll definitely want to have a jacket handy. Because this is the best time of day to duck hunt, you'll want to shop with these times of day in mind.
Now that we've answered the question - what is the importance of a duck hunting jacket? - let's move on to discussing what makes the best duck hunting jacket. This information will be very helpful for those of you who are in the market for a new coat. We'll share the criteria we used to rank the best duck hunting jackets of 2022, and by the end of this section, you'll know exactly what to look for when shopping for your own waterfowl coat!
What makes the best duck hunting jacket?
There are a few different factors that go into making the best duck hunting jacket. First and foremost, you want a coat that is going to keep you warm and dry in all kinds of weather conditions - from freezing cold temperatures to light rain or snow. The materials should be high-quality and durable, so you can rest assured knowing your jacket will last season after season.
Other factors include stealth, pockets, and price. Let's take a deeper look into each of these criteria so you know what to look for along your journey to find the best waterfowl coat for your unique preferences. We'll start with the performance of the jacket in terms of warmth & dryness.
Warm & Waterproof
Of course, the sole purpose of getting the best waterfowl jacket is to stay warm and dry. This should be your primary concern when shopping. So, what types of materials and ratings should you consider along the way?
When it comes to waterproofing, you'll want to make sure the jacket has a water-resistant finish. This will help repel water and keep you dry in light rain or snow. If you're looking for a coat that can withstand more extreme conditions, then you'll want to find one that is fully waterproof with taped seams. This type of jacket will keep you dry even if you're sitting in a puddle of water.
As for insulation, most duck hunting jackets are going to have some type of synthetic fill. This could be down or polyester fiber. Down is a great option because it's very lightweight and packable - meaning it won't take up a lot of space in your blind or boat. Polyester fiber is also a good choice because it's less expensive than down and still does a great job of trapping heat.
When shopping for your duck hunting jacket, you'll want to pay attention to the fill power rating. This will tell you how much warmth the coat provides. The higher the fill power, the warmer the jacket will be.
So, those are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the best duck hunting jacket in terms of warmth and waterproofing. Now, let's move on to discussing how important stealth is for waterfowlers.
Durability & Brand Reputation
When we discuss price later on in this section, you'll learn that the best duck hunting coats aren't cheap. Thus, you want your jacket to be durable and built to last - helping you get as many seasons as possible before you need to replace it. Assessing durability can be tough - especially when shopping online. How can you tell just how durable a jacket is? Well, your best bet is to stick with brands that have a reputation of providing high-quality, durable goods that last.
That means you should stick with a few brands in particular - Drake, Banded, Gator, Rivers West, Columbia, Frogg Toggs, Browning, and more. Basically, stick with the brands you see on our site. We only carry the best of the best - so if you see it in our catalog, you can trust that the quality is up to par.
Stealth
It's also important that the jacket be quiet - you don't want any rustling or noise that could scare away birds. Look for jackets made with quiet fabrics like microfleece or soft-shell materials. And, make sure the coat offers some form of camouflaging, so you can stay concealed in your blind. Think about the locations you'll be hunting in, and shop for a jacket that matches that type of scenery.
Price
Of course, you also want to make sure you're getting a good value for your money. The best duck hunting jacket is going to be well-made and offer all of the features we just mentioned - without breaking the bank.
There is a balance to be struck here, as you do get what you pay for. If you try and find the cheapest jacket online, you'll typically get a low-quality coat that doesn't really keep you warm and dry, creates a bunch of noise, and needs to be replaced far sooner than you'd hoped for. With that said, you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to get a quality waterfowl coat - you can expect to pay anywhere from $100-300 depending on the brand, features, and quality. We'll offer options for every budget - no matter where your preferred price-point falls.
Now that you know what to look for in a duck hunting jacket, let's take a look at some of the best coats on the market!
What are the best duck hunting jackets of 2022?
It's the moment you've been waiting for. We're going to unveil our selections for the best duck hunting jackets of 2022. Whether you're looking for the best waterfowl jacket for men or women, you'll find a great option down below. No matter what your budget or preferences are, we're confident you'll find the perfect coat in our collection. We're going to start with the most popular jacket we sell - The DRAKE REFUGE 3.0 3-IN-1 JACKET.
Most Popular Hunting Jacket - DRAKE REFUGE 3.0 3-IN-1 JACKET
Drake hunting clothes are among the best in the entire waterfowling industry. These guys have a reputation for producing the best clothing for hunters of all ages, genders, and sizes. And at just $259, the REFUGE 3.0 3-IN-1 JACKET is far and away our most popular option. Once you learn more about this awesome jacket, you'll see why!
The price you pay for this jacket is incredibly low when you factor in the quality, features, and durability it comes equipped with. The breathable, windproof shell features fully taped seams. With Hypershield Technology, the jacket stays drier and lighter than the competition. Cool features include chest pockets with vertical zippers, call organizing pockets, 2 lower pleated pockets to carry loads of gear and ammo, and handwarmer pockets. For those days when you want to be extra light, you can even remove the liner and the hood altogether!
Our Personal Favorite: Banded CALEFACTION 3-IN-1 INSULATED WADER JACKET
Banded waterfowl gear is another industry giant - and their CALEFACTION 3-IN-1 INSULATED WADER JACKET is our personal favorite hunting jacket here at Texas Fowlers.
A 100% waterproof shell is combined with an exclusive technology to provide unparalleled breathability. This means you enjoy the best of both worlds - comfort and mobility. In fact, this is considered the first 100% waterproof and breathable duck hunters jacket on the market! The removable PrimeLoft liner doubles as a jacket when necessary, and keepers you warmer and more comfortable than the alternatives. Plus, it comes equipped with handwarmer pockets, magnetic chest pockets, shell pockets, a tri-adjust hood, and so much more. Check it out!
Best For Timber Hunters (Deep Water) DRAKE G3 FLEX FLOODED TIMBER/FIELD JACKET
The second appearance by Drake on this list is the DRAKE G3 FLEX FLOODED TIMBER/FIELD JACKET. This is an excellent choice for anyone seeking the best waterfowl jacket on the market, but particularly for timber hunters who frequently hunt in deep water. Why? Well, it's got a ton of features that provide both comfort and function.
First and foremost, the GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ with water repellent finish will keep you completely dry - even if you're trudging through flooded timber or sitting in a puddle during a rainstorm. But, it's also breathable. That means you won't have to worry about getting too hot and sweaty when the temperatures start to rise. When winds start to pick up as the day goes on, you'll stay cozy through the windproofing it offers.
The G3 FLEX FLOODED TIMBER/FIELD JACKET is also highly durable - meaning it will last for years to come. This coat features reinforced stitching in high-wear areas, so you don't have to worry about it tearing or falling apart at the seams. Despite being highly durable, the jacket is still ultra-lightweight and packable - keeping you nimble and swift and allowing for easy travel. With a variety of patterns and sizes to choose from, you'll have no trouble finding your perfect pick - take a look!
Best Under $200 - AVERY 3N1 WADER JACKET
Earlier in this article we warned you against shopping based entirely on price. You get what you pay for - and if you're looking for the best duck hunting jacket of the year, you can't expect to pay under $100. It's just unrealistic - and will result in frustration, disappointment, and returns.
Now, with all that said - you don't have to break the bank to get quality. If you're looking for the best waterfowl jacket under $200, check out the AVERY 3N1 WADER JACKET. The value you get for the money can't be beaten. Simple as that! While this product is more affordable than many others on this list, it doesn't compromise on quality or features. You still get 100% waterproof seam-taping and a zip-out liner with 150-g HARS insulation to help keep you warm. These important elements are coupled with hand-warming chest pockets, cargo pockets with shell-loops, detachable hood, and much, much more.
Best Entry Level Quarter-zip - DRAKE 1/4 ZIP REFUGE EQWADER JACKET
Even $200 can be a bit much for someone just starting out with duck hunting. If you're a beginner duck hunter, you are going to have to buy a whole lot of gear all at once - as you'll learn from checking out our duck hunting gear list. But we've got great news for you - it's still possible to get an awesome, entry-level quarter zip hunting jacket for under $75. Sounds too good to be true? It's not - just take a look at the DRAKE 1/4 ZIP REFUGE EQWADER JACKET!
There's a reason this jacket has been one of the top-sellers in the entire industry for 15 years and counting. Its mix of waterproofing and breathability is as good as it gets at this price range. You'll stay warm and comfortable all day long, while staying dry as well. Features include magnattach chest pockets to help you keep your belongings not just dry, but easily accessible.
Best Softshell - BANDED SWIFT SOFT-SHELL WADER JACKET
Looking for the best softshell duck hunting jacket in particular? There is no doubt about it - it's the BANDED SWIFT SOFT-SHELL WADER JACKET. This beast of a jacket is also budget-friendly, perfect for those who are adding a second jacket to their arsenal or want to save some money.
Stealthy, wind and water-resistant soft-shell exterior offers unparalleled protection from the elements. This is furthered through a wind-breaking mock collar and a fleece inner layer. To help keep that warmth in, the jacket is equipped with elastic warmth-sealing waist and cuffs. It also features all the pockets you need to keep your hands warm and store your essentials.
Final thoughts on the best waterfowl jackets & coats of the year
There you have it - the best duck hunting coat brands and products of the year. We’ve shared an option for every waterfowler out there - no matter your preferences or price range. You’ve also learned the importance of getting the best jacket for duck hunting, and what criteria you should keep in mind when shopping.
At this point, there's just one thing left to do - pick the best waterfowl jacket for your unique needs and budget! We hope this resource has helped you find the best duck hunting coat for you. But if not, we're still here to help you. As lifelong waterfowlers ourselves, the best part of our day is getting to chat with fellow hunters - new and experienced - and helping them get the products they need to stay safe, comfortable, and stylish. So, don't hesitate to reach out - we'll help you get this purchase right the first time around so you can get out to the blind in comfort and style.
Want to explore other gear you need as a duck hunter? We recently wrote a similar article breaking down the best duck hunting waders of the year. Take a look and upgrade your wardrobe today - you will be glad you did!
