November 04, 2010
By J. Scott Rupp
By J. Scott Rupp
Comfort and function in hunting clothing revolves around a simple strategy: Move moisture away from the skin and, at the same time, keep moisture and wind from penetrating the exterior. That's best accomplished by dressing in layers--nothing new there--but what many people fail to realize is that the wrong layer can botch the whole deal.
Mossy Oak Apparel's APX is a well-rounded, integrated lineup of more than a dozen pieces of clothing designed specifically to work together as a three-tier layering system (base, insulating and protective) for use in a wide variety of conditions. The beauty of the system is illustrated well by three pieces I recently tested on a caribou hunt in Quebec.
Late August weather up near the Arctic Circle is as changeable as it gets. Within the span of just a few hours it's possible to experience frigid temps, rainstorms, icy, blasting winds and sunny, downright hot conditions. Throw in long hikes and lengthy glassing sessions, and you can imagine how difficult it can be to dress for comfort. APX base layer's VaporTec fabric kept me warm when I needed it to but also comfortable and dry as I hoofed for miles across the tundra.
The windproof fleece jacket liner (which converts to a vest, thanks to zip-off sleeves, a nice touch) is probably the most functional piece of clothing I've ever hunted in. It features a low-bulk, flexible membrane that keeps out wind without adding weight, and it zips into any APX protective layer. For the latter, I chose the Instinct jacket--a breathable waterproof, windproof rain jacket just right for when the strong winds turned cold or the rain came pounding down.
At the end of the hunt, I was impressed by how comfortable I could remain in such wide-ranging conditions, and I'm sold on the APX concept. 800/331-5624, www.mossyoakapparel.com
For a complete breakdown of the full 13 items that make up the Mossy Oak Apparel APX line, click HERE!
