Great Review I forgot to add, my brother is a waterfowl guide and been using Sitka for years. He said he has used and abused his gear and no questions asked. Example he burned a hole in the sleeve of his Delta Wading jacket by rubbing against the exhaust of his airboat so he sent it in for the free lifetime repair and they sent him a brand new jacket. So don’t worry about wearing it out , enjoy it and stay warm!!

@scotttrotter283

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for that info. Was wondering about their warranty.

@rodneyharouff5739

Жыл бұрын

if a waterfowl guide uses it, you know it's gotta be what it says it is.

Definitely one of the best reviews I’ve seen. Thank you!!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Mike! Appreciate the positive feedback!

Thanks for another great, informative video Don! You are doing a great job with the channel and I wish you the best of luck this season.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks OA! As always, your feedback and support is so appreciated! Best of luck to you too!

Great video! I upgraded to this kit last year for my hunts in the Barry County area and it is a huge leap from my old cabelas cold weather gear!

Excellent review! Great depth of information and so clearly presented. Thank you for taking the time to do it and I would love to see a follow up at the end of this season as to the durability.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Gary! My pleasure! The plan is to do another update after this season. Stay tuned.

Glad I found your channel. Very informative! What a great review and thank you for your honesty

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the support!

Best review of any hunting product I’ve ever seen. Great job.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Man! What a great compliment! Thank you for the feedback! 👍🏽

Wow, This is one of the best reviews I have seen regarding a piece of hunting gear. Good job. Look forward to more videos.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, David. Much appreciated. Working on more videos as we speak!

Such a great review! Have Been on the fence but you helped me closer to the other side. Thank you!

Phenomenal. Think you for taking the time to do thus. I would love to see a similar video for FirstLite sanctuary! A comparison between the two would be even better! I’ll say again - phenomenal job!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! Yeah, I’d like to see that review too!

Another great review, you do a great job. I think your channel will really grow this season

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Eagleye92! I really appreciate your support!

You have a great presentation style and speaking voice. Very much appreciate your clear, concise, organised and methodical delivery of information. Exactly the type of review I was looking for on the Sitka gear. Keep up the good work. Subscribed and a big thumbs up!!!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Jim! So appreciated! Glad it was helpful!

@brianloeffler2245

5 ай бұрын

Maybe you should just blow him since your such a fan boy! Holy cow

Great video, fellow Northern Michigan man. Glad i found your channel! Best of luck to you this season!!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

10 ай бұрын

Welcome! Thanks for reaching out!! Good luck to you too! 🤞🏾

Very engaging video! Thank you for taking the time to provide an honest review that touched on all my questions. Not to mention, I learned several things! I'm on the fence on investing so much on hunting gear that I'll only wear a few times a year. But, here in Central IL, it can get COLD! Any hunter can tell you, if you're cold in the stand, you're miserable. The durability concern is what still has me questioning the large investment. It would be much easier to swallow knowing I'd get 20 years out of this if I average 10 sits a year.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Matt, thanks for the comment! Like me, it sounds like you plan on hunting for quite a while 👍🏽. I agree, the cold plays a huge role in how enjoyable your hunts are, so it’s good u are doing your research. Good luck on your decision! Thanks for watching!

Really good job reviewing the gear. I’m looking to dipping my toes into paying for some quality gear so this sort of info has been great. Thanks

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Glad it was useful!

Great review, look forward to more of your videos.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Much appreciated!

I love all my Sitka Gear. Worth every penny in my book

thank you very much my friend for the hones review. that is exactly what we need honesty. i have the same items you have and still look new but i haven't used to much.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and the support! Glad it was useful. Would love to know how well the gear works for you, and in what conditions you are hunting! Good luck this year, hope you get to put more miles on it!

Great review. I use sitka for elk hunting and for whitetail. And the thing that makes premium gear worth every penny is it allows you to stay in the woods longer. And that equals success.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! So far, I’d have to agree!

Great review👍 probably the best and most detailed one out there. Sitka has really good customer service and warranty. I believe that they will replace your products if they break in regular use.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the support!

Great video, this was one of the key vids that made me bite the bullet and get into the sitka/fanatic system. Looking forward to trying it out in late december crossbow up in Canada. 👍

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

I’m glad the video was helpful. Good luck out there! Would love to hear about your success! I appreciate the support!

I love the honest review. I also hunt and live in Michigan so I know the struggle finding good gear for our Michigan winters. Hopefully the wearing on the gear doesn't become a bigger issue. But I think I'll be ordering my Sitka gear soon.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Kyle, thanks for the continued support! Right, MI winters can be brutal, especially if you hunt into December and January. I hope the gear holds up too, so close to perfect. I'll take a few precautions, but at the end of the day it has to be able to endure the abuse of hunting. I'm optimistic. Good luck on the purchase! Please let me know what you think...

I’ve been Looking at buying some sitka gear, i’ve been getting too cold over the past few seasons and have been looking for some opinions on sitka gear. This was a great review! your channel should be huge by the end of this season

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Dylan! Fighting the cold is a constant battle. Glad the video was beneficial!

Hey just wanted to say great review and bang on. I just got my fanatic gear due to all the functions that are geared to bow hunters. I can definitely attested to it being cold weather gear, just this past weekend with the wind temps were -25c or -13F. Now i have been a first lite fan for a few years and all of my base layers are first lite. I really am impressed with there merino wool along with their whitetail gear. I walked to the stand with the jacket in my pack and bibs wide open. once in the stand jacket on bibs zipped and i was golden. Super impressed wiith the sitka fanatic it is definitely legit. The only part of me that was cold, my feet now if i can get that figured out, I'll be set.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment! Great feedback! Hope you have a great season!

Although I did not buy the Sitka fanatic gear I purchased the Sitka stratus gear my findings are almost identical to yours. There are times when I feel the stratus gear is not as warm as I would like it to be but with it being as expensive of clothing as it is I am going to see how long it lasts before I buy the Fanatic gear. Your review I felt was very honest and well spoken and I appreciate you taking the time to put your thoughts together.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Pete! I have friends who mixed Stratus series with Fanatic pieces to provide warmth where they need it and they speak highly of the combination. I hope our investment holds up well for both of us! Good luck this season!

Thanks for the review of this gear! Well done!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure! Thank you!

Excellent review and presentation

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

Awesome review sir!

You’re a solid dude good channel keep the videos coming they’re appreciated and enjoyed thanks! 🏹 🦌

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Bro! Much appreciated!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Bro!! Much appreciated!

Excellent review!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

Great review. I bought stratus and fanatic gear. So comfortable they feel like pajamas. No regrets speeding the money.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Great feedback! Thanks for watching!

I haven't hunted in my fanatic hoody yet, and it is starting to pill. I have worn it 10+ times hanging out camping. I will be trying the rest of my gear out starting tomorrow. Thanks for the video.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. I'm curious, after washing, did you dry your hoody with heat or air dry, if at all? Other viewers attribute the pilling to dryer heat. I question if that is the culprit or just the fabric itself. Please let me (and others) know. Would also like to know how the rest of your gear holds up after the season. Much appreciated! Good luck out there!

@727designsDotCom

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 I think it just got hung, but I honestly can't remember. I just got a black one for in the blinds, I am going to watch it and only dry by hanging.

Thanks for the review!

Great review and great channel 👍

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Bro! Much appreciated!

great review! thank you sir

Outstanding review. That helps a lot.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Cool! Glad it was helpful!

very good review Man!!!

Great Review, last season early Dec. upstate NY 1st time 0ut Fanatic top N bib was warm as toast mid 20's . 2nd day snow turned to rain 2+ inches . Even w/ a tree umbrella got wet. more goreTex is needed.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Can’t say I’ve ever worn the gear in heavy rain.

Great review on the gear! Looking forward to your Alphaburly pro update and would like to know what you do for scent control when hunting. Thanks!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mike! I’m looking forward to the Boot review too! Eager to see how they work. Scent control is something I plan to cover in another video. Hopefully this year. Appreciate the comment.

I agree with these comments this is a phenomenal, realistic, down to earth review thank you so much

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

7 ай бұрын

I appreciate that! Thanks for the comment!

Keep it up. Great vedio. I just bought Sitka water foal gear and love it.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Much appreciated. Nice purchase. Enjoy and good luck out there!

excellent review I guess everything is a compromise in life. I have the bibs and i am thinking about the jacket

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Right! Good luck with your decision. Hope the video was helpful. Thanks for the comment!

Great review! I purchased the fanatic and equinox hoodies in February 2022 but didn’t get a chance to hunt in them. I wore the fanatic hoodie to work and around town and I’m impressed by how warm it is to be so thin. I wore the equinox hoodie on a Atv trail ride and it felt great. I’m looking to get the fanatic bibs and jacket also. Thanks for your review!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

My pleasure! I’m glad you enjoyed it. Looks like you are getting good use out of your gear!

@mr.gtmsworld2494

Жыл бұрын

It only gets in the 20s and lower here in Alabama. Do you think I should get the fanatic lite bibs or the fanatic bibs?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

@Mr. GTM’s World Get the fanatic bibs. For temps that low I would not get the fanatic light bibs

@brianloeffler2245

5 ай бұрын

​@@mr.gtmsworld2494a year later I know but stratus is all you need. Your weather is like Florida's if you ask me !!! My kid wears stratus here in wisconsin down to 0° with layers and is fine. At 0° I wear my finatic bibs with shorts underneath.

@brianloeffler2245

5 ай бұрын

​@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404that low 20s that's speedo weather are you kidding me !!

Another great analysis Don. The parallels between what you and I used to use, i.e. the Carhartts, leafy camo, and multiple layers underneath, are uncanny. However, I layered Frog Togg’s Lite between the Carhartts, and my long underwear and sweats. I agree, it was heavy, bulky, and loud. It got the job done but Sitka Gear it far superior. Well worth the money. I’ll have to take a closer look at my gear to see if it has the same wear as yours. Thanks again Don!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Too funny! The only good thing about wearing all that bulky gear was the feeling of relief when stripping it all off! Very interested to know if you are seeing anything similar in your gear. I’m hoping it’s just superficial wear and nothing more major.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Hey FF, thanks for your Sitka feedback on the other video. Bringing my response to this video so others can benefit. Quick question: How do you wash and dry your Sitka gear? Heat or no heat? Wondering if my fabric issues are user error... Thanks.

@flyersfan651

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 Hi Don. I used Dead Down Wind non-fading laundry detergent and DDW dryer sheets. I emailed Sitka asking the same question. They suggested to follow what the Care Tag says on the garment. I wash and dry in the cold settings. Sometimes I’ll hang them on the clothes line if it’s a nice day weather-wise and if I’m going to be home. As far as transporting them to my stand, I use a plastic tub lined with pine sprigs; cedar and balsam. I also sprinkle a bit of baking soda on them to absorb odor. When I go hunting, I usually wear just my base layer and a pair of shorts and t-shirt over them and get dressed in the field. I wash and dry my base-layer, mid-layer, hat, gloves, and socks after every hunt. I place them in a plastic bag sprinkled with the baking soda. Just a light dusting on each garment as they go in the bag in layered fashion.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@flyersfan651 Thanks for the info! Seems you have ur process down pat! 👍🏽

@flyersfan651

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 you’re welcome Don.

Cant wait for the winter

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Dude! Me either! I think I need an intervention!

Wow, an actual review! Thank you sir. Nice to see a review from someone who is not drunk on Sitka koolaide. 😎

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback!

Great review Don! I’m a huge Sitka fan! Only thing I would add is the Fanatic set is not meant to be worn walking to and from the stand. It’s meant to be carried in and then put on at or in the stand. I had a question about durability like you and I called Sitka about it. They said you’re supposed to start “comfortably cool” at the truck and the heat your body generates walking in should be trapped using the outerwear once you reach your stand. I’ve started using this method and it works incredibly well and now I have no question whether or not this gear will last a decade or more!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment ZB! I do wear my gear to the stand, for a couple of reasons: Mainly because I get nervous when I’m at the bottom of a tree but not in it. I use a climber and it already takes considerable time to attach to and climb the tree so I don’t want to spend any more time rusting with the gear. Also, as mentioned, I don’t sweat a lot so as long as I can shed some heat by opening vents I’m ok. In this case I do put the gear at greater risk of damage from rips/tear. I do appreciate the feedback! 👍🏽

Thanks for the information

That set up had me sleeping like a baby in Upstate NY 10 degree weather. I’ll sacrifice durability for warmth. Being cold and miserable ruins it for me lol. Good review bud.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

A buddy of mine says the same thing. Like wearing a sleeping bag! I tend to agree. If the wear doesn’t progress too quickly and allows for several good years of use I’ll be happy. Definitely can’t complain about warmth! Thanks for the comment!

Great review if the fanatic hoodie feels like it’s grabbing on too your thermal maybe try out the core light weight hoodie, pretty similar without the extend sleeve. Unfortunately you do sacrifice some warmth but with the Fanatic jacket and bib you should be good

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the idea, although that might be too expensive of a solution for me. My budget won’t allow it. After a while it eventually works itself out and becomes comfortable so I think I’ll be fine. Good luck this season!

Its been said but I am gonna say it again, great review. Answered the main questions I had; is it that warm and will it hold up to walking through briar patches. Thanks for the review.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Great feedback! Glad it was helpful!

Awesome review! Thank you. you touched on just about every concern I had. How’s it all holding up as of today?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the nice comment! 2nd season review should be out in a few days… stay tuned.

I have a full system in both the elevated 2 whitetail pattern and the big game subalpine pattern. I absolutely love every single piece. However, I could not afford paying full price. Luckily I was able to get a major discount on all the pieces and would absolutely buy it again. Sitka does have a warranty and will repair or replace damaged pieces, just fyi

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Great feedback! Lucky you!

North of. Detroit outdoors I don't have any questions I love the channel and my buddy has been using the sitka. For a few. Seasons now and I believe that his sitka is still holding up pretty well I would maybe get ahold of the company and let them know

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for reaching out! Good to hear your friend has not had any issues. I’m hoping the issues are just superficial.

@matthewmcnulty698

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 let's hope

Great video. Thank you, I just subscribed

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Welcome! Thanks!

Great review! I’m thinking I’m going to try it out. When you say minimal base layers what are they? For instance my cold weather gear is cabelas fleece shirt and pants. Thermal hoodie (dux) and redhead silent stalker parka 2n1. With insulated jeans and redheads bibs. Sometimes even a Milwaukee heated jacket. Over the weekend it was a brisk 26 and I had all of the above on, 7-12 mph winds and after about two hours I really felt the cold coming through to my knees, and my arms however my core was toasty. Based off that will limbs feel cool with say the base layer and a thick hoodie? Thanks again for the review! Safe hunting

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! It seems you, like me, have a low tolerance for cold considering the many layers you reference. In the coldest weather, under my Sitka jacket and bibs I wear the fanatic hoodie, thermal top (BPS label) and dry fit Nike t shirt up top (for moisture wicking). Below I have a pair of hunting pants same cheap thermals as above and boxer briefs. I need to upgrade my thermals for sure for better insulation. Knees do get cool more so than torso, but never unbearable. Hope this helps.

I’ve been planning for months now to buy Sitka gear after a few days of research I think the fanatic system is best for me in Indiana. The hoodie for when it gets 40s to 50s and then the next day could be 10 degrees so then I got the fanatic bibs and fanatic jacket. Hopefully they last a long time

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like a good plan. I think you’ll be happy with that decision!

I have every piece in the white tail lineup except the incinerator. The only piece that is getting frayed Is my fanatic Hoody

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Good feedback! Seems to be fairly common.

Terrific review. What if you layered over top with a different fabric light vest that’s more durable?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Welcome! Thanks for the feedback and the suggestion! I haven’t decided what I’ll do yet. I may not do anything and just see how things progress. It may turn out that’s it’s just superficial and not really a problem. We’ll see.

Thank you. That was helpful

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Good to hear! Thanks for the feedback.

Have the same issue with the fanatic hoodie and the fabric pilling. I wash and hang dry so I’m assuming it just comes from use and friction with other material during wear. I ended up using an electric fabric shaver and it works great to restore the original feeling. No fading yet so hopefully just some extra care will remedy this issue.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. It seems like a common issue for the hoodie. I had begun to conclude that the issue was with how I washed and dried it but based on your, and others, comments I’m dissuaded from that line of thinking. Thank you for reaching out! All the best!

Good review in your video. I've had the same issue you pointed out at 4:45, but with my lightweight Skre gear jacket after using it for just one season. I used a lint cutter to get rid of the fraying material, which got rid of them, but I am concerned with how mine holds up moving into this years hunts.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. I’m hoping it’s not a serious issue. I’m optimistic. Hopefully years from now we’ll be handing it down to a young hunter with lots of good years still left on it! Thanks for the comment!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Another thing... After washing, did you dry your gear with dryer heat or air dry? Trying to get a sense from other users if the fabric issue is dryer heat or the fabric itself. Much appreciated!

@seanfernandes2062

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 I did machine dry my non merino wool layers. That very well may have caused the wear on the jacket because I noticed the pilling effect on basically the whole jacket rather than just on the hot spot areas, like where it could possibly rub on a tree or something.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@seanfernandes2062 Ok, cool! Thanks for the feedback!

@charlesl1459

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 I’ve had the fanatic hoody for two years and don’t see this but I hang dry all of my sitka gear.

my sitka gear gets that same fuzz after a few uses as well, but then doesn't seem to actually wear out after a lot of rough use. At this point I'm confident in it's durability

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Interesting. Thanks for the feedback! Do you wash and dry per the care label recommendations?

I prefer brands like Outdoor Research, Patagonia, etc. They don't produce camo but the quality, warmth, and durability are better in my opinion. For archery, they may have some disadvantages but for rifle season I'd take them any day. I tagged out 5 years in a row in a coyote brown Columbia jacket that I found marked down from 299 to 45 bucks. I never had to wear anything else except base layers and a heavy goody and a pair of carhartt bibs. All that being said, Sitka does make the coolest looking and well thought out products

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the insight Matt! Undoubtedly there are other very good brands out there - and far less expensive ones, to be sure. For the type of hunting I do, and the high priority I place on warmth, Sitka made sense. And so far it’s as warm as advertised, without the bulk. Of course, not everyone needs Sitka as every individual has a different tolerance for handling the cold (mine is very low 🥶!) so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to clothing. Thanks for the great comment!

@MrCashewkitty

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 very true. I don't think there is a better system out there for bow hunting.

Another Michigan guy that uses this gear is from Whitetail Habitat Solutions. He always says they don't sponsor him in any way but he loves the gear. He said he has had his for years so that might be good news for you.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve watched that channel in the past! Need to check them out again. Good feedback! Thanks for the comment!

Good video , everyone I know that owns Sitka loves it and swears it keeps them warm but I have a hard time spending that much money on clothing / well my wife does 😂😂😂. I'm north of Detroit also but not by much LoL

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, much appreciated! Agreed, Sitka isn’t cheap, I get it; definitely a want not a need. But when it’s 22 degrees, wind gusting at 10 mph and I’m 25 ft up with nothing to block the elements it suddenly seems like a bargain! 😀

Hi Don. It’s been awhile since we communicated. Pre-pandemic? Just to let you know, I bought the Celsius midi jacket and the Equinox midi pants to my Sitka system. They’re fantastic for layering under the Fanatic jacket and bibs. They’re also excellent by themselves in early to mid-season.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Hey FF, thanks for reaching out. Glad to hear from you! Looks like you are building a solid system. You’re going to be deadly! Just save a few deer for the rest of us! 😁

@flyersfan4558

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 Hey Don. Last season was a success. I took home a four-point second day of archery season and a really nice six-point on the last day of rifle season. The six-point was head mount worthy. My first “trophy” buck that was mountable. I hit a nice seven-point mid-archery season, but sadly, I didn’t recover him. 😫😢😭😤

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@flyersfan4558 Thanks for the update! I couldn’t help but smile reading your response! Sounds like an awesome season. The ups and downs are what keeps bringing us back! I’ve had my fair share of both (especially the downs 😁). Congrats on ur mount! Would love to see a pic…

Great review! I just bought a full Sitka and now I’m worried it will not be durable.. does anyone know if they (Sitka) updated any of the build material to reduce ware?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Not to worry. The issues that I mentioned may be unique to me. If you have a climber like mine (with no padding between you and the tree) you may see wear on the back where it makes contact. Otherwise probably not. And if you dry your gear on heat like me you may see the pilling, but others who air dry don’t seem to have the same issue. It’s great gear. You should be fine.

Where I live it's not only cool but gets quite wet in November December any experience with rain and the fanatic gear

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Not anything heavy. Wet snow and drizzle don’t seem to penetrate, but I haven’t been in anything close to a downpour. Good question though, now I’m curious.

Thanks for a great review. What did you have under the fanatic jacket? I am having a hard time finding out what to layer in.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Wicking t shirt, thermal base layer top and bottom, pants, and fanatic hoody. Hope to do a review soon.

Thank you man for the very candid review. If I understand correctly, the quietness and features were pretty good, but the durability was questionable. That’s good to know, I would think maybe a compromise would be to wear a more durable bib overall, even a Carhart bib, overall, and then wear the famatic jacket over it? Maybe put a pad or even just wrap at-shirt around the tree before your sits? Also how do you think the setup would do in a 35 and all day rain scenario?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for the recommendation. Although I’ve never sat in the rain all day, I think the gear would get waterlogged because of the fleece material.

Thanks brother

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure! Hope it was helpful!

I thought my Fanitic was warm for the first year or two. But now I think the insulation is breaking down and my arms get cold

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

I agree, arms do seem cooler than the rest of the jacket. I don’t think the insulation is breaking down, I think they are simply less insulated to make them less restricting so you can draw your bow. Thanks for the comment!

Do you wear anything under the hoodie? I’m debating getting one. Currently wear long underwear. A button up. Then my fanatic jacket. This is in northern mn and works pretty well but debating adding the hoodie into the mix just unsure if it replaces my button up or where it fits

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I wear a t-shirt that made for sweat-wicking and thermal underwear underneath the hoodie.

Sitka is always worth it I promise you

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

11 ай бұрын

No argument here! Thanks for watching!

I would like to recommend Arctic Shield cold weather clothing It is just as warm as Sitka if not warmer and $700 cheaper

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Danny, for the comment! Good to know! I’ll have to find some reviews.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Hey Danny, I’m having trouble finding good independent reviews of the Arctic Shield gear. Can you recommend any? I’m finding it a little hard to believe there is gear out there with the same level of Sitka warmth for $300. Also, I’m assuming you are comparing to the $1000 I spent on my Sitka gear? Which Arctic Shield pieces are you referring to? Thanks!

I just got into hunting deer and I bought the fanatic jacket, bibs, beanie. In November in Ky the average low at night is about 37 and high is 55. Would those bibs and jacket be too warm to wear at that time?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

You seem to be right on the edge of two different clothing systems. I would wear Sitka in 37 degrees because it is designed to be cold weather gear, but not 55 as it may be too warm.

@justinmull5329

Жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 right on I appreciate the feedback

I read a lot about Sitka being the greatest so last year I started my collection with the hoodie light gloves and hat loved them zero issues. This year I decided to buy the esw pants and shirt I live in S.C. And it’s hot here in bow season I was really surprised at how cool it keeps you however they have not held up well at all briars have absolutely ravaged them and I really haven’t been in super thick briars now I’m hesitant to buy any of the super expensive stuff.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. Sorry to hear about your experience. As I’m learning, it’s important to understand the major criteria when making these kinds of purchases. There are trade offs when you buy highly specialized gear as it may excel in certain aspects but fail in others. For example, in your case, clothing that keeps you super cool in hot weather will probably not be very wear resistant despite the price tag. It’s a learning curve for me too! Good luck on your future purchases.

Great video! I own quite a few Sitka pieces, I have worn two seasons now and don’t have the material beading up like you do. I hang dry my stuff (Im 6’7” and things shrink easily) maybe that is the key?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

You are likely correct about the pilling being caused by my method of washing and drying. Thanks for watching!

@justinjankowiak5475

Жыл бұрын

Hey Stroud. Another 6’7” guy here. Been doing a lot of looking into Sitka. How do you like the fit with your height? (I’m 225 lbs)

@SWF734

Жыл бұрын

@@justinjankowiak5475 I personally own the big game line. With one exception being the fanatic hoody. From my research before buying the only difference between tall sizes and regular is the sleeves are (going off memory) 2” longer. That being said I do wish everything was a tad longer but it all “just fits” the fanatic is the only piece that is super long to tuck in. I own the timberline pants and no complaints really with them other than they are 1-2” shorter than I’d like but I wear gaiters so it doesn’t matter much to me, also I don’t run the suspenders on them because they aren’t long enough. The heavyweight bottoms are also very short but my long socks cover them so I make due. Sorry that’s an unorganized jumble of info but if you have any more questions I don’t mind answering. And I have everything in XLT, I’m 215lbs

@justinjankowiak5475

Жыл бұрын

I appreciate the reply! I was looking into the stratus line. I tried on the L and the XL at a local outfitter. My only concern is even at 225, the XL seemed pretty loose in the waist

@SWF734

Жыл бұрын

@@justinjankowiak5475 Dang yeah I’m sorry I’m not more help man but I only have experience with the heavyweight bottoms and their timberline as far as pants. I’m fairly certain I got size large bottoms and like I said they are very short. Then I got timberline pants size 34T and they are short too just not near as bad. It sucks but best bet would be to just order it and return if it doesn’t fit good, Sitka customer service is ridiculously good. Last time I ordered from them FedEx refused to deliver my package because a bridge was out and they offered to send another one, they told me to keep all of it if they both showed up.

I have a Fanatic jacket on the way. Sort of disappointed to see that wear on the back as you leaned against a tree. $450 jackets oughta come with a steering wheel.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment! I was disappointed too. I’ve made the conscious decision not to examine the back of the jacket again until I’m done hunting (deer, squirrel, coyote). I want to see how it progresses without any intervention. I’ll do a 2nd season review to let you know what happened. Good luck with your purchase! …steering wheel! 😂

In the 28° - 17° weather, what all did you have on?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Plan on doing a review of how I layer as soon as I can.

What size clothing did you buy from them? I usually wear medium size clothing but was thinking on buying the larger clothes to be able to layer underneath.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

I’m 5’9” 185 lbs and usually wear a medium too. However, I bought a large as the medium was too constricting. Hope this helps

@wesleyward7002

Жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 that helps tremendously! Did you also buy the fanatic hoody in a large too? Thank you so much for your responses!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

@@wesleyward7002 Yes.

what size were the bibs and jacket?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Large.

Hey don have you tried sending your stuff in for repair depending if it was user error or just flawed piece of gear they may just repair it or send u new I’ve heard nothing but good things from the warranties and repair

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve heard nothing but good things too. I don’t think the issue is bad enough to send it back as long as it doesn’t get any worse. I’ll see how it goes this season and let you know.

@midwestreapers8008

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 appreciate it I have the stratus bibs and jacket first season running it hope it’s everything the fanatic is

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@midwestreapers8008 please let me know! Good luck!

Although expensive Sitka gear is not superman’s cape, it is not indestructible. I would consider the rubbing of the material on the tree as a lesson learned and you need to take steps to protect it. I believe being upset about material rubbing and wearing out eventually is like getting upset about the oil in your engine going bad and needing change your brakes needing changed.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. I don’t think I was overly harsh in expressing my observations. I didn’t expect Superman’s cape, but I also didn’t expect to see such discernible wear after only a dozen sits. Considering how much I spent on the gear (much more than I did for my last oil change, by the way ! 🙂), I was disappointed. I don’t think I was being as unreasonable as you insinuate.

I don't have any of that probaly being super rough with it on purpose you probably thinking that if I spent this much money on it I should be able to be as rough on it as I want

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. I assume you are referring to the issues with the jacket. As I said in the video, I was generally more careful with the gear (often walking longer distances at times to protect it) mainly because it was such a large investment. So, no, I was not rough on it and definitely not on purpose. Most of the time I was simply sitting against a tree for hours at a time. And the very localized wear on the jacket is indicative of that. Hope your season is going well! 😀

Maybe SITKA needs to reinforce the backside of the jacket so that you can lean on a tree and it will not wear down.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Good idea! 👍🏽 Thanks for the comment!

Did you wash the hoody?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. A couple of times. I used delicate cycle and a little scent free detergent. I washed all the gear at the same time.

@blakepetersen2509

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 did you dry it in the dryer?

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@blakepetersen2509 Yes. I attempted to air dry but the jacket and bibs were dense and hard to a long time to dry so some heat was required.

@blakepetersen2509

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 well I’m guessing that is what is making them pill. You aren’t supposed to use dryer. User error

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@blakepetersen2509 Thanks for the feedback. I wouldn’t immediately jump to the conclusion that it’s user error though. By your admission you are “guessing.” I don’t have any evidence to suggest this isn’t happening to others who may be air drying only (perhaps you do). At the very least, if heat is the culprit, then I would again question the quality of the material such that heat would cause such significant “pilling” in such a short time. I have several Polo shirts that are dried with heat and never pill - even after 10 years. Air dry? Really? What if I want to hunt two consecutive days and the gear smells or is covered in blood? 🤔 Pretty inconvenient. Anyway, my major concern is continued deterioration. At the end of the day, if the beading is only superficial and it doesn’t deteriorate any further, I’m ok with that. As I said in the video: “Time will tell.” Thanks!

Sitka has a lifetime warranty, send it back and they will replace it

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment! I wouldn’t consider the wear on the gear to be a reason to request replacements, rather something to keep my eye on over time. The lifetime warranty is news to me! If you have any documentation that confirms that please send along. I’m sure viewers would be interested to see. All the best!

@TundraOverlandBuild

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 I was not suggesting you ask for replacement , I apologize to you for the confusion. I meant under normal wear and tear if that jacket was failing in the front or rear send it back to Sitka for a repair and many times they will replace it at their discretion. I even spoke to a rep yesterday and he said absolutely they stand by their gear. I would be glad to give you his name if you message me. 👍

LOL 1,000 dollar budget! I'm 'homeless' and a grand is about the equivalent of my annual budget!!!!

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

We’ll, I certainly hope you are homeless by choice and not by consequence! Your comment puts the value of $1000 into perspective. To some it is a great windfall, to others it is trivial, even insignificant. Thanks for reaching out! All the best!

Beanie

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Lol!

it's too bad rivers west went away. their stuff was guaranteed waterproof for 10 yrs no matter what. they had 3 levels of warmth. i can attest this was the perfect huntin' clothing. tougher'n a pine knot, warm, & waterproof.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like good stuff! Another viewer may have mentioned it before…

@rodneyharouff5739

Жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 it is. but no more. no company offered such a thing. maybe that's why they are no more. i put mine thru hell. & it worked. this sitka stuff may be all right. i'm too old ta hunt much anymore.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

@@rodneyharouff5739 well, I still have a lot to learn from a seasoned hunter such as yourself, so feel free to pass along any tips you have. Viewers would be grateful. I know I certainly would!

@rodneyharouff5739

Жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 i wasn't a great hunter, so i have no tips. i just enjoyed bein' amongst the wild. learnin' on yer own is what it's all about. good luck brother!!! & you north country people are tough when yer in the cold. 🤣🤣 i ain't no more! 🤣🤣

Man I hate them carhartt coveralls

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

Lol! I suffered in those things for years! 😂

do not wash ozone your clothes I've had none of your issues

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

4 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. Not sure I ever addressed ozone though…

sitka makes great stuff. but, it's still massively over-priced.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

Sitka is definitely not cheap! That’s for sure! But I look at it this way: It’s high end gear with highly specialized features that are designed for a very narrow demographic. There are other brands out there that are cheaper but they probably don’t meet the same demands of the target audience.

@zzz7zzz9

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 that target audience being people all too willing to overpay. No different than why we have such overpriced cell phones also. Because there are many that are perfectly happy paying $2000 for a phone that lasts only 2 years. No hunting jacket should cost $400. It's ridiculous. And what i see, alot, is the sitka and kuiu brands are bought as fashion statements. i can always tell the city hunters who are travelling through, as they are always fully decked out, head to toe, in sitka, while gassing up their truck or coming out of mcdonalds. And in the bush, they'll be the ones road-hunting, sitting on their quad, or behind the wheel of their truck all day. But they look good doing it.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@zzz7zzz9 Let’s admit it, “ridiculous” is relative. What one man calls ridiculous another calls rational. We all make our choices based on our individual motivation. Most don’t hunt for sustenance anyway, we do it because it’s challenging and enjoyable (at least I do). It’s a hobby that requires certain purchases that are personal, not obligatory. If a man wants to sit on his quad and enjoy the outdoors without ever drawing his bow I’m not going to judge him for it. Perhaps you’re a hard core minimalist. No argument from me, more power to you. I, however, am willing to fork over a little bit (ok, in this case, a lot 🤣) more cash to make the experience more enjoyable. No harm in that…

@zzz7zzz9

2 жыл бұрын

@@northofdetroitoutdoors7404 well, i'm hardly a minimalist. Many rifles, compound bow, crossbow, 3 prs hunting pants, 4-5 hunting jackets, 5 prs hunting boots, 17 trailcams, etc, etc. But over-priced is over-priced. I have several friends who wear sitka and kuiu. And usually, a person wearing it argues that it's not over-priced, getting defensive. EVERYTHING is these days. $100,000 for a truck? $1000 for a phone? Things are priced high because the public is all-too-willing to pay those prices. And you are exactly correct, to each their own. Wear that $1500 camo outfit, shoot that $6000 rifle. It's all personal choice, and thankfully we live where we have that. Still doesn't change the fact that sitka is over-priced though.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

@@zzz7zzz9 “…thankfully we live where we have that.” Amen bro! We definitely agree on that! 🇺🇸 Thanks for the discussion! Have a great season!

$1000 bucks for made in China clothing. No thanks. I can stay plenty warm cheaper than that.

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

There are plenty of brands far cheaper than Sitka. Warmth, however, is purely subjective. A brand that works for one may not work as well for another. Sitka may be too warm for some. Thanks for the comment! Good luck out there! 👍🏽

Sitka is over hype and overpriced. The fanatic material is like a burr magnet especially in the Midwest to northern states 👎

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

2 жыл бұрын

It does collect burrs. Forgot to mention that…

I’m surprised Carhartt is still in business these days. Their quality went downhill and amongst other things

@northofdetroitoutdoors7404

Жыл бұрын

I haven’t purchased any Carhartt gear recently so I’ll take your word for it. Thanks for the info.