Early Season Essentials
The Season Starts Long Before Opening Day
Successful hunts are built with preparation. Tell us what pieces of your early season system you already have, and we’ll show you what’s missing before opening day arrives.
Quick Check
Which layers are already part of your early season system?
Select all that apply.
Your Missing Pieces
Complete Your Early Season Setup
Based on what you already have, these are the layers and essentials worth adding before opening day gets close.
LAYER 1
Start With The Foundation
Early season hunts often mean covering miles in warm temperatures, climbing elevation, and moving hard before daylight. A quality base layer manages moisture, regulates temperature, and keeps sweat from becoming a problem when conditions change. Every effective layering system starts here.
XKG Foundation 150 Merino Hoodie
$129.99
XKG Elevation 1/4 Zip Tee
$64.99
XKG Performance Long Sleeve Tee
$59.99
XKG Elevation Short Sleeve Tee
$44.99
XKG Performance Hoodie
$69.99
Hunter Series Long Sleeve Shirt
$25.00
$44.99
XKG Foundation 150 Merino 1/4 Zip
$109.99
XKG Foundation 260 Merino 1/4 Zip
$129.99
LAYER 2
Built For Long Miles
Early season success often comes down to how much country you're willing to cover. Lightweight hunting pants are designed for steep climbs, warm afternoons, and all-day mobility. They breathe better, dry faster, and move more naturally than heavier late-season options, making them one of the most important pieces in an early season kit.
LAYER 2
Your Primary Early Season Layer
For most early season hunts, this is the layer you'll spend the most time wearing. Lightweight tops provide breathable comfort during active pursuits while offering enough coverage for cool mornings, changing weather, and long days in the field. If you're hunting before the first hard frosts, this layer does most of the work.
LAYER 3
When Activity Slows, Warmth Matters
Most hunters focus on the hike in, but forget about the hours spent glassing. When activity slows and temperatures drop, insulation helps retain heat without adding unnecessary bulk. It's often the difference between staying comfortable and cutting a hunt short.
LAYER 4
Be Ready For Changing Conditions
Mountain weather rarely sticks to the forecast. A softshell adds protection from wind, light moisture, and temperature swings while remaining breathable enough for active hunts. It's one of the most versatile layers in an early season system and often the layer hunters wish they had packed.
Hunter Wind-Defender Pro Fleece Bib
$169.99
Hunter Wind-Defender Fleece Jacket
$149.99
XKG Wind-Defender Shift Anorak
$199.99
XKG Wind-Defender Shift Jacket
$209.99
XKG Wind-Defender Shift Bib Pant
$209.99
XKG Wind-Defender Shift Vest
$169.99
XKG Boulder Soft Shell Jacket
$179.99
XKG Tracker Soft Shell Jacket
$115.00
$199.99
Layer 5
Insurance Against Bad Weather
You may only need it once all season, but that one storm can determine whether you stay in the hunt or head back to camp. A packable hardshell provides critical protection when rain, wind, and unpredictable mountain weather move in.
