KUIU has certainly been branching out in the past few years. From the women’s line to whitetail, the brand has wandered its way off the sheep cliffs and into the field. Now, it seems the company has entered the marsh with the new KUIU Waterfowl System.
We’ve seen a lot of the mainstream hunting brands break into the waterfowl world in recent years, so it only made sense for KUIU to join the game.
Though we haven’t had hands on the system yet, here’s what we know so far.
KUIU Waterfowl System
When shopping the full waterfowl line on KUIU’s website, you’ll see 18 items currently listed. Of those, many of them are pieces from the existing line that KUIU pulled in to complete the setup. It only makes sense to pull in some of the bestsellers to complete the skin-to-shell system.
That being said, these are the new cornerstone items in the collection.
Notable Items in the KUIU Waterfowl System Collection
- Toray 4-layer waterproof fabric — 271 g/m²:
- Double-weave reinforced paneling:
- Neoprene-insulated boot:
- Vulcanized rubber overlay:
- EVA soles:
- Duraflex hardware:
- YKK zippers:
The HD Flex Wader is clearly the central component of this lineup, and it appears to be bombproof. Though, this isn’t a pair of waders for the casual duck hunter. At $900, you’re really going to have to be serious about your time in the pond.
From KUIU:
A combination of KUIU, Toray, and Simms technologies, the HD Flex Wader is designed for the hardcore waterfowl hunter. This ultra-durable boot-foot wader is equipped with premium 4-layer waterproof material, purpose-driven features, and a mud release boot design so you stay warm, dry, and comfortable in the toughest conditions.
Yes, you read that right. KUIU worked with Simms Fishing on these waders, and the warranty is actually is backed by Simms. That is no small detail. You know a brand went all in when it went to the top fishing wader maker to ensure quality.
- Toray 4-layer waterproof fabric – 271 g/m²:
- Duraflex hardware:
- YKK Aquaguard zippers:
The HD Flex Storm Shell Jacket will run you $450 and is the other most notable piece in the apparel arsenal for the waterfowl line. This doesn’t appear to be just your run-of-the-mill rain jacket, either. Sherpa-lined hand pockets, cargo pockets, waterproof cuffs, and a cinchable waist are all tailored with waterfowl hunters in mind.
Again, this isn’t a jacket you’re going to buy casually. For a storm shell, it has a steep price. If you’re serious about chasing ducks, though, it may be a price worth paying. Another perk is that you can order this one in solids, so it can pull double duty as your field jacket and your day-to-day rain jacket.
- Waterproof:
- Submersible:
- Floatable:
- Matte nylon ether-type TPU:
- High-tenacity Hypalon bottom panel:
- TIZIP airtight & watertight zippers:
- 4 lbs., 6.5 oz.:
The DeltaStorm Submersible Backpack ($400) is probably the product I’m most excited about. Don’t get me wrong, the waders and jackets look sweet, but this stands out as a focal piece that has all the features needed when chasing birds and keeping gear dry. It is waterproof, floatable, and fully submergible. The comfort of knowing your pack contents are dry is worth its weight.
Purpose built for waterproof protection and durability, the DeltaStorm 2200 Submersible daypack is made with TPU coated waterproof fabric, welded construction, and watertight zippers. A removable shell and accessory holder keeps you organized, while external lashing and compression straps provide vital attachment points.
— KUIU
Other Notable Pieces From the Waterfowl System
StrongFleece 290 Layering Pant: “This heavyweight fleece layering pant excels as a comfortable jogger, or worn under an insulated pant/bib, rain pant, or wader in cold conditions. It provides hard-faced durability and water resistance, along with a fusion of warmth, breathability, and quick drying performance.”
Flyway Insulated Hooded Jacket: “With incredible warmth, stretch, and durability, the Flyway Jacket is designed as a layering piece if it’s wet, or a stand-alone jacket if it’s dry and cold. Stitch-free and windproof Sektor insulation baffles, combined with high-loft Fiberball synthetic insulation keep you comfortable in the wind and cold.”
Kodiak 3000 Submersible Duffel: “Perfect for hauling and protecting gear in extreme wet conditions, the Kodiak Submersible Duffel is purpose built for durability and waterproof protection. Made with TPU coated waterproof fabric, welded construction, and air-and-water tight zippers, you get unmatched waterproof protection.”
First Impressions of the KUIU Waterfowl System
Granted, we haven’t tested this gear, but we are excited to get it into the field. It’s clear that KUIU has taken some serious time to design a waterfowl line that fits the extreme waterfowl hunter. Again, this isn’t a budget-friendly option, but KUIU has never been known to produce a low-cost product.
If you’re serious about ducks and geese, you might want to give it a try. If you do, let us know what you think.
