Sitka introduces its new hunter concealment line, the Intercept Collection, just in time for the buying rush for the big game season 2023. Sitka claims the collection of outerwear will keep hunters hidden.
The goal of the collection is pretty clear. Sitka had this to say in its press release announcing the line:
“With a commitment to concealment, and designed for scent, sight and sound suppression, this collection helps keep hunters undetected from game while spot and stalk hunting.”
Let’s dig into what we know so far about the new pieces.
The Sitka Intercept Collection
Both the hoodie and pants integrate odor-resistant wool, the hoodie being constructed of ArmourSpun Merino Wool and the pant lined with a poly/wool backer. Removable knee and elbow pads add offer protection when needed. Ample zip vents have been positioned for cooling and breathability.
The Intercept Hoodie will set you back $249 and the Intercept Pant clocks in at $289, prices that seem to fall in line with much of Sitka’s gear.
Let’s look at the specs:
- 220g ArmorSpun Merino Wool for increased durability and odor management:
- Removable elbow pads:
- Contoured, fitted hood with integrated merino wool mesh facemask for concealment:
- Center front zipper allows easy on/off and additional ventilation when needed:
- Total weight: 14.4 oz.
- Stretch nylon face:
- Bonded poly/wool backer manages odor and moisture:
- Removable D3O knee pads:
- Zippered hip vents for ventilation:
- Integrated mesh cargo pockets with silent snaps:
- Mesh hand pockets provide additional ventilation:
- Total weight: 20.8 oz.
A Word From Sitka
“Bowhunting demands traversing through unforgiving landscapes filled with dense vegetation, rocky and rugged terrain,” stated John Barklow, Senior Product Manager at SITKA Gear. “This advanced product collection benefits the hunter through merino wool’s remarkable temperature regulation and natural odor control with the durability required for the demanding pursuit of spot-and-stalk hunting.”
Initial Thoughts
Since we haven’t had these pieces in hand, it’s hard to say whether they deliver. We’ll, no doubt, get them into the field and tested. The first impression is good. Anytime you combine durability and ruggedness, with the comfort, quiet, and scent protection of wool, I tend to become an instant fan.
That said, the market is certainly speckled with high-quality wool offerings. First Lite, for example, has made some sweet wool hunting kits for years. But while merino is available in a lot of products, most of our choices for the best hunting pants are synthetic materials. Sitka tends to bring a lot to the table, and the additional knee pads could be a selling point for many.
With the badlands of eastern Montana giving me ample opportunity to find cactus in my knees and sweat on my brow, this is a collection to look forward to. Though it doesn’t offer it in women’s sizing, I’ll keep my fingers crossed that the line extends our way.
