Bushcraft, Stalking and Hunting: What to Wear and Why it Matters

In our modern world filled with creature comforts, we rarely need to consider surviving out in the elements. However, for bushcraft, deer stalking, and hunting enthusiasts, these country sports take us away from our home comforts and into the wilderness, where being prepared, protected, and performance-ready is key.

Whether decoying, tracking, or taking the high seat, the right gear is essential for a successful strike or survival in the backwoods. If you enjoy a day stalking deer, baiting boars or crafting a debris hut deep in the forest, you’re in the right place, with our guide to the best bushcraft, stalking and hunting kit: what to wear, and why it matters.

 

Key Features

If you’re on the lookout for high-quality gear, there are a few important elements to consider when tracking down the right purchase:

 

Layers and Protection: Being out in the elements can mean battling all weather conditions. Look for clothes that will keep you dry and layer well for better temperature management, helping you stay warm in the cold and cool in the heat.

Durability and Design: Bushcraft, stalking, and hunting put gear through its paces. Contending with the elements, crawling through tough terrain, and hard ground, a kit that keeps up is essential for both durability and comfort. The best gear is not only designed for looks but also for real, practical use; handy pocket layouts, quiet zips, hoods, and cartridge holders are just a few of the features good gear considers.

Movement and Stealth: Comfort is key when switching between movement and stillness, and your kit needs to be comfortable for all aspects, from heading out to packing out. Stealth is also vital, so choosing fabrics that don’t rustle with quiet zips and camouflage prints is a must for any stalking, hunting or foraging, especially at close range.

 

Layering Basics

Our activity levels vary in the field, and so does the weather. Understanding a proper layering system can make the difference between staying sharp and being forced to head home early!

 

1. Base Layer: Moisture Management

It’s important to start right, with a comfortable base layer for wicking sweat and temperature regulation.

For a long-sleeve option, the Deerhunter Climate Half Zip Long Sleeve T-Shirt offers exceptional comfort and flexibility with 37.5® Technology to manage moisture at the vapour stage, making it the perfect choice for active hunting.

If you prefer a short-sleeved option as a base layer, or on its own in warmer weather, the Harkila Deer Stalker Camo Short-Sleeve T-Shirt is durable and built to last, so you can stay comfortable and concealed. Treated with Polygiene® for odour prevention, this T-shirt even requires less washing (win-win!)

If you’re looking for budget-friendly camouflage, the Jack Pyke Quick Wick T-Shirt is a solid, reliable option. A simple round neck T-shirt design, this quick-wick, fast-drying top is perfect for layering and keeping you dry, no matter how active the day may be.

2. Mid Layer: Insulation & Warmth

Ideal for crisp mornings, cool evenings, and when winter starts to creep in, a good mid-layer is invaluable for holding in warmth without adding excessive bulk.

The Deerhunter Eagle Fleece Jacket fuses traditional hunting style and functionality. Its simple, elegant design, adjustable hem, and practical zipped pockets make it handy for storing hunting essentials and perfect as a top layer, or under a thicker jacket in winter months.

For full optimisation, the new Harkila Deer Stalker Full-Zip Hoodie is lightweight and stretchable, ensuring silent movement and moisture management. It also features a built-in face cover and thumb-holes for added warmth and that extra level of stealth.

 

3. Outer Layer: Protection from the Elements and Camouflage

A quality outer layer is water-resistant, breathable, and ideally camouflaged. It is last in the layering system but first in the line of defence against the elements and the environment.

For a low profile at low expense, the Jack Pyke Softshell Digicamo Jacket is lightweight, highly breathable, and water resistant, keeping the cold winds from your core. With specially designed camouflage, you can blend perfectly with your wooded surroundings, while the softshell allows exceptional freedom of movement.

A jacket that means business in the Deerhunter range, the Pro Gamekeeper Jacket (and Pro Gamekeeper Short) boast a wealth of smart features honed for hunters, such as waterproof zips, multiple pockets (including two hand warmer pockets) and Deer-Tex® Performance Shell membrane to keep you warm, protected, and right on target. Made to withstand multiple environments, this range also comes with a five-year warranty, just for that extra protection!

4. Lower Half: Tough Trousers

An often overlooked yet essential element, a tough pair of trousers is vital for mobility, protection, endurance, and convenient storage out in the field.

If you’re going for full camouflage, the Jack Pyke Hunters Trousers have the perfect blend of practicality, comfort, and camo. Waterproof and created to accommodate a wide range of field sports, from the sit spot to the stalk line, these trousers are a high-performance all-rounder for your country sports essentials.

Harkila and Deerhunter also offer a range of strong contenders for hunting trousers. The new Harkila Finnmark HWS Trousers are top of the class; they are durable, stretchable, and have an HWS membrane and dirt-repellent surface. For a regular and winter option, a pair of Deerhunter Ram Winter Trousers will keep you covered, comfortable, and protected through every season.

5. Footwear: A Solid Foundation

Let your boots do the scouting. Dependable footwear is one of your kit's most critical pieces of gear, impacting mobility, safety, and comfort.

You shouldn't have to compromise between practicality and comfort, and the Jack Pyke Hunters boots are the affordable answer, delivering terrain protection, anti-fatigue padding, and waterproof protection for all-day wear in the wilderness.

For extra ankle support on intense adventures, the Harkila Pro Hunter Ridge 2.0 GTX offer a taller boot for exceptional ankle support on uneven terrain. Featuring reinforced rubber throughout, the Pro Hunter Ridge is an excellent choice for even the most demanding conditions.

6. Accessories: Essential Extras

Although they may seem secondary to big-ticket gear like boots or jackets, smaller accessories can make the biggest difference, enhancing outdoor functionality and increasing protection.

A trusty hat, such as the Deerhunter Ram cap, helps protect the head and face from the elements, so you can glass the landscape protected, come rain or shine. Add the camouflage, noiseless design of the Approach Cap, and you’ll be stalking in stealth with head-to-toe coverage.

In the outdoors, our hands are survival tools, and gloves are their armour. The Harkila Wildboar Pro Gloves are built for rugged use, offering reinforced protection and a secure grip, ideal for handling tools, navigating thick brush, or tracking in challenging terrain.

The Deerhunter Rusky Silent Gloves prioritise warmth and silence, making them perfect for cold-weather stalking or static hunting, helping you stay undetected and comfortable, even during long, still waits in freezing conditions.

Summary: Look Sharp, Stay Sharper

Whether stalking deer in the morning mist or packing up for a campout in the elements, having the right gear ensures you are frontier-ready every time. Every item, from base layers to jackets and gloves, has a purpose. The right gear doesn’t just protect you; it enhances your potential.

Ready to step into the wilderness? You can hunt down the full range of hunting, stalking and bushcraft gear from Harkila, Deerhunter and Jack Pyke on our website, including many more essential extras like pouches, bags, packs and socks- so you can gear up and get out there.

 

Author

Matthew Holland

Matt Holland is passionate about sharing tips on enjoying the British countryside. From field sports to woodland walks, Matt is a proud enthusiast of all country pursuits, with a keen interest in country sports and the heritage, traditions, and tales they offer. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matt combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons while embracing the thrill of country sports and the beauty of country life.