Having the best hunting bibs can get you a long way when hunting in the winter months. With icy winds and wet weather always prevalent, owning a cold-weather hunting bib is an essential item to keep your body warm and dry. This will prevent you from having to end the hunt prematurely and stop you from falling ill too from prolonged exposure to the cold. There are lots of cold weather hunting overalls to choose from but just what exactly are the best hunting bibs for cold weather?
What to look for in the best hunting bibs?
When searching for the warmest bibs around, you need to factor in several different elements that make a telling difference between the good and the bad. Many of these features seem obvious but are crucial to your search with some aspects including
Coverage
There is nothing more important than ensuring your winter hunting bib covers all the main parts of your body. Winter winds feel unpleasant at the best of times so having a bib that covers your arms, legs, and body makes a huge difference. Not only will you not feel uncomfortable but it will ensure that everything stays as warm as possible no matter where you are. It also prevents any nasty backdrafts from filtering in when you least expect it and leaving you vulnerable.
Mobility
Extreme cold weather hunting coveralls need to allow for good mobility at any given time. Having the ability to move easily is a key survival trait especially when in particularly rural areas. It increases the ability to move faster out of danger and reduces the strain on your body. As insulated hunting bibs give you a bit of leeway in terms of leg fittings, this can make a big difference in an emergency when you need to have that bit more room to run when necessary.
Weatherproofed
During your quest to find warm hunting bibs, you need to ensure they are capable of withstanding the harsh elements of winter. To do this, look out for particular design cues including:
- Extra layers for insulations
- Waterproof Materials
- Windproofing Areas
- Recommended Temperature Usage
All these aspects will prove crucial as they combat all the worst areas of winter. Having extra layers inside your bow hunting bib will keep the body warm and cozy no matter how cold the air temperature might be. Alongside that, having windproof and waterproof clothing will help you stay outdoors if conditions deteriorate before you can get inside. However, only use the cold weather hunting coveralls in the recommended temperatures to avoid getting cold or feeling uncomfortable.
The Best Hunting Bibs – Our Reviews:
Editor’s Pick: Sitka Hudson Waterproof Bib
Sitka is known for making some of the best cold weather hunting bibs around and theirs Hudson Waterproof Bib is another example of their fine skills. The Hudson bib is made from Gore-Tex which is a durable material that is both waterproof and windproof – perfect for the great outdoors. It also is fairly loose-fitting and can stretch allowing it to fit people of various builds. The bib is also made of 3 different layers ensuring that your body is well-insulated no matter how cold the air temperature may be around you.
Aside from the weatherproofing features, the bib has additional protection woven in for your knees and legs keeping you protected when you move along the ground. It also has two-way zips on the side and suspension straps to attach to your body making it easy to slip on or off without having to fiddle around with any buckles and straps. There are truly no areas left unturned by Sitka in this offering.
PROS
- Well-insulated
- Windproof & waterproof
- Lightweight
- Extra leg and knee protection
CONS
- Expensive
- Size recommendations have no flexibility
Top Seller: Arctix Essential Insulated Bib
With their name based on a polar region, Arctix specializes in making hunting bibs for use in the cold. Their Essential Insulated Bib is one of the warmest bibs around with the inner layers designed to keep the body warm at all times. The 85g inner layer is made up of many small chambers to trap pockets of heat and use them to keep your chest and legs warm no matter what. The outer layer of the bib is both water and wind-resistant whilst the middle layer can also remove sweat or internal body moisture through its thin, breathable material.
It’s also easy fitting for anyone to wear with easily adjustable suspenders that can be altered to fit comfortably. There are also plenty of zipped pockets which are great for storing small items that you need or keeping your hands warm when walking. The sides of the bibs are also made from elastic to give greater flexibility when moving and make the coveralls feel lightweight. If you need any extra protection, the ankle, hems, and knees are all reinforced to protect you against any unwanted surprises. A great all-around bib for use throughout winter.
PROS
- Well insulated
- Adjustable straps
- Zipped pockets for storage
- Easy movement
CONS
- Straps can rip off joinings
- Zips can be flimsy
Great Value: Dickie’s Insulated Bib
Dickie’s is a well-established clothing brand and their Insulated Bib lives up to their strong reputation. The biggest selling point of this cold weather bib is that is designed to provide a lot of movement for the owner. With both the waist and shoulder straps made with elastic joinings, these provide flexibility for you to move and cover any ground quickly when necessary. The elastic shoulder straps can also be easily adjusted to fit your body style and feel as tight or loose as you would like.
Dickie’s have also ensured their hunting bib is designed for use in the cold with the entire bib insulated with multiple layers to ensure they keep out cold winds. It also has reinforced guards around the knees and legs to protect you from stones, woods, or wild animals that come into contact with you. Additionally, there are zipped pockets located in several areas of the bib to store all your essential tools and keep your hands warm when moving. A great addition to your hunting apparel collection.
PROS
- Well insulated,
- Easy movement
- Adjustable strap
- Lightweight
CONS
- Easily Flammable
- Be aware of sizing requirements
4.TSLA Winter Snow Bib
It doesn’t matter how cold it is outside, TSLA has designed a winter hunting bib perfect for snowy conditions. The Winter Snow Bib has 3 distinct layers of insulation each being fully waterproof and windproof. These different layers all have different purposes to help insulate all key areas of the body and help remove any moisture that is trapped close to the body. The bib itself is also made of Dura-Tex which is tough enough to resist anything that Mother Nature throws at it
There has been a lot of effort gone into protecting the leg region with the lower hem regions being reinforced and also featuring snapped guards. These link up with elastic boot gaiters meaning that you are well secured no matter if your ankle, knee, or thigh is targeted by an erratic animal. There are zipped pockets on each side of the leg for storing essential items whilst there are additional D-Rings around to hold larger items. A definite must for anyone living in more arctic terrain.
PROS
- Well insulated
- Waterproof & windproof
- Legs are well protected
- Great storage options
CONS
- Size fittings are exact
- Slow to dry
5. Winter’s Edge Avalanche Bib
Named after the ultimate nightmare scenario, the Winter’s Edge Avalanche Bib gives you all the protection you need from the cold. Made mostly from nylon and polyester, the Avalanche is extremely lightweight and loose-fitting making it easy to wear. The inner polyester layer is woven in small pockets and the breathable nature of the fabric removes any body moisture and sweat trapped in your clothing. The outer nylon layer is also fully water and wind-resistant allowing you to survive a shower without it affecting your clothes underneath and lowering your body temperature.
To help maximize the appeal to everyone, the Avalanche is available in a host of different sizes ranging from small to 5XL. Also, the shoulder straps are fully adjustable to help tighten or loosen the fit according to your needs. There are also front and side zip pockets for storing any items whilst the reinforced leg guards will give you any protection should you come across any unexpected scenarios.
PROS
- Lightweight,
- Water and wind-resistant
- Great movement
- Available in any size
CONS
- Be aware of sizing estimates
- can feel very loose
6. Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 Hunting Bibs
Featuring a classic camo design, the Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 is a great hunting bib built for the worst Mother Nature can throw at it. This lightweight hunting bib is made from lightweight materials such as nylon and spandex to give you excellent mobility and cover long distances quickly. The spandex helps everything feel like an extension of the body and is extremely durable against sticks, stones, or anything trying to cut through it.
It has also been designed with functionality in mind with 7 pockets spread across the body of the coveralls. These are all included with zip closings to ensure your bare essentials never go missing. The Cotton Mill 2.0 also includes extra stitching patterns around the hips and knees to prevent them from feeling tight around key movement joints allowing it to feel much lighter than other winter hunting bibs. A great inclusion for anyone in a hurry.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Great Mobility
- Lots of storage pockets
- Durable
CONS
- Lack of insulation
- Some stitching quality issues
7. Legendary Whitetails HuntGuard Bib
Legendary has a lot of live up to but as their name suggests, the HuntGuard steps up to the mark quite well. Featuring 2 layers for insulation, you will never feel the cold wind thanks to the inner polyester and nylon linings keeping you warm. Should the weather get warmer, the inner layers are also removable allowing you to adapt your cold-weather hunting bib to exactly match the conditions. The outer polyester layers are windproof and waterproof too meaning that you don’t need to panic if the weather turns unpredictable when out in the forest.
There has been a lot of care taken into providing the free movement with the shoulder straps fully adjustable to match your comfort levels. It also has several zipped pockets located across each leg to store all your gear and the legs are given reinforced HuntGuard padding to ensure that you stay safe when miles from civilization. A great item to help you explore the outdoors during the colder months.
PROS
- Well insulated
- Water-resistant
- Removable inner layers
- Good protection
CONS
- Not wind-resistant
- Tight fit around the belly
8. FROGG TOGGS Pilot II Hunting Bib
Don’t let the name put you off, FROGG TOGGS have put a lot of effort into making a great winter hunting bib. The Pilot II Hunting Bib is made from a lightweight Teflon material that has two layers to provide full insulation from the elements. It is fully wind-resistant and water-resistant whilst the inner layers are made from breathable fabrics to help remove any sweat or excess moisture from your skin and internal clothes.
There is plenty of storage available too with two large zip pockets located on the chest section and another two large pockets available on the side of the legs. There are also D-Rings available on the side of the bibs should you need to carry large items such as your hunting bow or fishing rod with you. The suspenders can be adjusted and locked into place with buckles meaning that you can easily find a fitting that feels comfortable and lock it into place. A great bib for exploring the great outdoors.
PROS
- Plenty of storage
- Dual insulation
- Water and wind-resistant
- Lightweight
CONS
- No zipper
- Sizing is exact
FAQ
Can I wear lots of clothes underneath my winter hunting bib?
You can always wear extra layers underneath your cold-weather hunting bib. Winter is a harsh time of year so it’s wise to wear extra layers particularly around your chest and arms which may not be fully covered. You can wear an extra layer of pants but the best hunting bibs will have this region protected from the elements. Wearing extra pants may also hinder your movement and feel uncomfortable over long periods.
Can I wear lots of clothes underneath my winter hunting bib?
Sizings are generally very close to the estimated ranges. Many of the best hunting bib manufacturers will offer a range of different sizes that cater to all builds but there won’t be many variations in the estimated ranges. Always go with a size larger if you are unsure as the shoulder straps can be adjusted if the fitting is too loose for your body size.
Do all winter hunting bibs need to be weatherproofed?
Yes – the best hunting bibs for cold weather should be fully waterproof and windproof. Having extreme cold weather hunting coveralls helps your body stay warm when outdoors for a long time. The insulating layers not only keep you warm but it helps with mobility and avoids muscles tightening and seizing up. It also avoids you getting conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite which may occur if you aren’t properly prepared.
Looking for more hunting gear? Check out our reviews of the top hunting watches and reviews of the best rifle slings.
References:
https://mensgear.net/best-hunting-bibs-cold-weather/
https://tacticalhuntr.com/best-hunting-bibs-for-cold-weather/