Gear Review: Sitka Gear Women's Big Game Clothing Line

The biggest gripe echoed by most lady bowhunters is that there just isn't enough quality gear specifically designed for women. To accommodate our growing subset, many companies slap a pink logo on their men's line and market it to huntresses. The result is a poor fit and frustrated females. But slip on the women's Big Game line from Sitka Gear and you'll immediately know this isn't the case. Sitka teamed with female designers and hunters to develop their new women's line, and the proof is in the fit and functionality of each piece.

I sported the Timberline Pant, Core Lightweight Crew LS and Core Heavyweight Hoody on a recent hunt, and the typical bunching excess fabric was nowhere to be found. The durable, waterproof pants feature a reinforced seat and knees as well as removable knee pads for protection during backcountry stalks. Available in waist sizes 25-33, they provide a tailored fit and are the best-fitting hunting pants I've ever owned. With plenty of pockets - something typically missing from women's apparel - the Timberline Pant offered plenty of secure storage for my bowhunting necessities.

The moisture-wicking crew - which features Polygeine odor control - served as the perfect base layer in the cool morning hours and provided moisture-wicking breathability as temperatures climbed into the afternoon. Layered over the crew, the hoody delivered early-morning warmth with its grid-fleece backing and form-fitting hood. Mapped underarm panels on the hoody reduce bulk and dissipate heat. I especially liked the built-in facemask, flip-over hand mitts and longer length of this piece.

Sitka's Big Game line features Optifade Supalpine camo, designed for stalking within 50 yards of game. From lightweight layers to insulated cold gear, the line features all the essential elements — including gloves, hats and belts. Like many female bowhunters, I had been anticipating Sitka's women's line for years. And it was well worth the wait!

MSRP: $229 (Timberline Pant); $189 (Heavyweight Hoody); $69 (Lightweight Crew)

Contact: Sitka Gear, 877-748-5247