Upland hunting is an exhilarating outdoor activity that requires the right gear for success and safety. One of the most critical pieces of equipment for any upland hunter is the hunting vest. It’s not just about fashion or tradition; it’s about function.
A good upland hunting vest can make the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day in the field.
In this article, we will explore the best upland hunting vests of 2023, taking into account insights from various expert sources and competitor articles.
What Is An Upland Hunting Vest?
An upland hunting vest is a specialized piece of hunting gear designed for upland hunting, which typically involves hunting birds such as pheasants, quails, and grouse on dry land, specifically between highlands and lowlands.
These vests are designed to provide hunters with easy access to shells, protection from the elements, and a place to store games. They are typically brightly colored or have bright accents for safety, making the hunter highly visible to other hunters.
Upland hunting vests are often sleeveless, providing freedom of movement for shooting.
They also come with multiple pockets and compartments for storing hunting gear such as glasses, gloves, water, or licenses. Some vests even come with game bags for storing your catch.
Why Do I Need An Upland Hunting Vest?
An upland hunting vest is essential for several reasons.
First, it provides camouflage, helping you blend into your surroundings while making you visible to other hunters for safety. Second, a good hunting vest protects you from the elements. Depending on the design and material, some vests can keep you warm in cold weather or cool in hot weather.
Moreover, a well-designed upland hunting vest enhances your hunting efficiency. With multiple pockets and compartments, you can carry all your necessary gear and have quick access to it when needed. Some vests even have specific pockets for shells, allowing for fast and easy reloading.
Also, a good hunting vest should be comfortable. It should fit well and not impede your movement or shooting ability. It should feel like a second skin, moving with you and not against you.
What to Consider When Choosing Upland Hunting Vests
When choosing an upland hunting vest, several factors should be considered to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
What/Where You’re Hunting
The type of game and the location of your hunt can significantly influence the kind of vest you need. For instance, if you’re hunting in thick forests, you might need a vest that offers more protection and durability to withstand the rough environment. On the other hand, if you’re hunting in open fields, a lightweight vest might be more suitable as it allows for more mobility and comfort.
If you’re hunting in areas with a lot of underbrush or thorns, consider a vest made from tough, tear-resistant materials. If you’re hunting waterfowl or in wet conditions, a vest with water-resistant or waterproof features would be beneficial.
Temperatures
The weather and temperature during your hunting trips should also influence your choice. If you’re hunting in colder weather, you might need a vest that offers more insulation or one that can fit over multiple layers of clothing.
Look for vests with thermal lining or those made from materials known for their insulating properties, like wool or fleece.
For warmer weather, a lightweight, breathable vest would be more appropriate.
Vests made from materials like mesh or moisture-wicking fabrics can help keep you cool and dry. Some vests also feature vented backs for increased airflow.
Construction Material
The material of the vest is also crucial. It should be durable and able to withstand the rigors of hunting. Some vests are made from heavy-duty fabric for durability, while others are made from lighter materials for comfort and breathability.
Materials like polyester and nylon are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. Some vests also feature water-resistant or waterproof materials for hunting in wet conditions.
On the other hand, materials like cotton provide comfort and breathability but may not be as durable or water-resistant.
Hydration Compatible
If you’re going on long hunting trips, consider a vest with a hydration system or one that can accommodate water bottles.
Staying hydrated is crucial, and having easy access to water can make your hunt more comfortable and safe.
Some vests come with built-in hydration bladders, while others have pockets or loops designed to hold water bottles.
Storage and Accessibility
An excellent upland hunting vest should have ample storage space for all your hunting essentials.
Look for vests with multiple pockets and compartments to store your gear, such as ammo, calls, and even your game.
The pockets should be easily accessible so you can quickly and easily reach your gear when needed.
Comfort and Fit
Last but not least, the vest should be comfortable and fit well. It should not impede your movement or shooting ability.
Adjustable straps and belts can help ensure a good fit, regardless of the number of layers you’re wearing underneath.
The vest should also distribute weight evenly to prevent strain and discomfort during long hunts.
The Best Upland Hunting Vests: Reviews & Recommendations
Based on the analysis of several expert sources and competitor articles, here are some of the best upland hunting vests of 2023:
Best Overall: Cabela’s Traditions Upland Vest -Best Bird Hunting Vest
The Cabela’s Traditions Upland Vest is a remarkable fusion of time-honored design and contemporary functionality, making it an ideal choice for today’s discerning bird hunter.
Constructed from a robust cotton/polyester blend, this vest is designed to endure the harsh conditions of the field while maintaining a comfortable fit. The material is not only durable but also lightweight, ensuring that it doesn’t weigh you down during those long hunting expeditions.
One of the standout features of this vest is its large, blood-proof game bag. This practical feature allows hunters to carry their game securely without worrying about blood stains seeping into the rest of their gear. This is particularly useful during long hunts, where the game bag may be in use for extended periods.
The vest also features shell loops, a crucial element for any bird hunter. These loops provide easy and quick access to ammunition, ensuring that you’re always ready for action. This thoughtful design element enhances efficiency and can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.
Hydration is another critical aspect of hunting, especially during long, strenuous hunts. The Cabela’s Traditions Upland Vest addresses this need with two water bottle pockets. These pockets are conveniently located, allowing for easy access to your water bottles whenever you need to quench your thirst.
Best Strap Style: Filson Tin Cloth Game Bag
The Filson Tin Cloth Game Bag is a shining example of Filson’s dedication to crafting high-quality, durable hunting gear. This strap-style vest is a standout product, designed with the needs of the modern hunter in mind.
It’s made from Filson’s signature oil finish Tin Cloth, a material renowned for its water-repellent and abrasion-resistant properties. This ensures the vest can withstand the rigors of the field, providing reliable protection in various weather conditions and terrains.
One of the key features of this vest is its spacious rear game bag. This bag offers ample space for storing your game, making it a practical choice for extended hunting trips.
The game bag is lined with nylon, a material known for its durability and ease of cleaning. This means you can carry your game without worrying about difficult-to-remove stains or damage to the bag.
The vest also features adjustable side straps, a feature that enhances its versatility. These straps allow for a custom fit, ensuring the vest sits comfortably and securely, regardless of the number of layers you’re wearing underneath.
This adjustability makes the vest suitable for hunting in various weather conditions, from the chill of early morning hunts to the warmth of afternoon expeditions.
Best Budget: Gamehide Shelterbelt Mid-Weight Vest
The Gamehide Shelterbelt Mid-Weight Vest is a testament to the fact that affordability and quality can indeed go hand in hand. This vest is an excellent choice for hunters who are budget-conscious but refuse to compromise on the quality and functionality of their gear.
One of the standout features of this vest is its large game bag. This bag provides ample space for storing your game, ensuring that you can carry your catch comfortably and conveniently. The game bag is designed for both front and back loading, offering flexibility depending on your preference or the situation at hand. Moreover, the game bag is blood-proof, a feature that ensures the rest of your gear remains clean and stain-free. It’s also easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze.
The vest is made from Gamehide’s unique Hush Hide fabric. This material is known for its softness, silence, and lightweight properties. It’s designed to be quiet during movement, an essential feature for hunters who need to remain undetected by their game. Despite its softness and lightness, Hush Hide fabric is incredibly durable, ensuring that the vest can withstand the rigors of hunting.
Best Jacket: Browning Pheasants Forever Canvas Jacket – Best Grouse Hunting Vest
The Browning Pheasants Forever Canvas Jacket is a standout piece of hunting gear that goes beyond the typical vest design. This full jacket offers additional protection and warmth, making it an excellent choice for hunting in colder weather conditions or in environments where extra coverage is beneficial.
Constructed from 100% cotton canvas, this jacket is both durable and comfortable. The cotton canvas material is known for its robustness, able to withstand the rigors of the field while providing a comfortable fit. This ensures that you can focus on your hunt without being distracted by discomfort or concerns about the durability of your gear.
One of the key features of this jacket is its large, blood-proof front-load game bag. This bag provides ample space for storing your game, ensuring that you can carry your catch without worrying about blood stains on your gear. The game bag is easy to access and clean, making it a practical and convenient feature.
The jacket also features shell pockets with Browning’s unique Pocket Expander System. This system allows for easy conversion to exposed shell loops, providing flexibility depending on your needs. Whether you prefer to keep your shells in your pockets or have them readily accessible on loops, this jacket has you covered.
Best Youth: Gamehide Front Loader Youth Vest
The Gamehide Front Loader Youth Vest is a thoughtfully designed piece of hunting gear tailored specifically for the needs of younger hunters. This vest is an excellent way to introduce the younger generation to the sport of hunting, providing them with a piece of gear that is both functional and comfortable.
One of the standout features of this vest is its large game bag. This bag provides ample space for storing the game, ensuring that young hunters can carry their catch with ease. The game bag is easy to access, making it a practical and convenient feature for young hunters.
The vest also features quilted shoulder patches. These patches provide added comfort when carrying heavy loads, reducing strain and discomfort. This is particularly important for younger hunters, who may be less accustomed to carrying heavy game.
The vest also features shell loops and multiple pockets for gear storage. These features ensure that young hunters have easy access to their shells and other hunting essentials. This can significantly enhance their efficiency in the field, helping them to learn and improve their hunting skills.
Orvis Pro Series Vest – Best Upland Strap Vest
The Orvis Pro Series Vest is a premium strap vest that combines superior comfort and functionality, making it an excellent choice for hunters who prefer this style of vest.
One of the standout features of this vest is its large, rear game bag. This bag provides ample space for storing game, ensuring that you can carry your catch with ease. The game bag is also easy to clean, a practical feature that makes maintenance a breeze after a successful hunt.
The vest also features shell pockets with magnetic closures. These pockets provide easy and quick access to your shells, ensuring that you’re always ready for action. The magnetic closures are a thoughtful touch, providing secure storage while allowing for easy one-handed access. This can significantly enhance your efficiency in the field, potentially increasing your success rate.
Orvis Women’s Upland Vest – Best Women Hunting Vest
The Orvis Women’s Upland Vest is a well-designed piece of hunting gear tailored specifically for women. It features a rear game bag for storing game, shell pockets for easy access to ammunition, and multiple gear pockets for storing other hunting essentials.
The vest is made from a durable, lightweight fabric that can withstand the rigors of the field while providing a comfortable fit. The mesh back enhances ventilation, keeping you cool during intense hunts.
The adjustable belt and shoulder straps allow for a custom fit, ensuring comfort and mobility during your hunting expeditions. This vest is a fantastic option for women hunters, offering a blend of functionality, comfort, and durability.
Gamehide Switchgrass – Upland Field Bird Hunting Vest
The Gamehide Switchgrass Upland Field Bird Hunting Vest is a robust and adaptable choice for bird hunters. It boasts a large, front-loading game bag that provides ample space for storing games. The game bag is easy to clean, a practical feature that simplifies maintenance after a successful hunt.
The vest also features shell loops, providing easy and quick access to your ammunition. This design element enhances efficiency in the field, ensuring you’re always ready for action.
The vest also includes multiple pockets for gear storage. These pockets provide ample space for storing other hunting essentials, ensuring you have everything you need close at hand.
Tenzing BV16 Upland Vest – Best Upland Hunting Vest
The Tenzing BV16 Upland Vest is a premium hunting vest designed with the serious bird hunter in mind. It boasts a large, expandable game bag that provides ample space for storing game and can be adjusted to accommodate varying sizes of games.
One of the standout features of this vest is its specialized pockets. It includes a pocket specifically designed for a shooting glasses case, ensuring your glasses are protected and easily accessible. It also features a pocket for a water bottle, keeping hydration within easy reach during long hunts.
The vest is constructed from a durable, lightweight fabric that can withstand the rigors of the field while providing a comfortable fit. The lightweight nature of the fabric ensures that the vest doesn’t weigh you down during long hunts, enhancing your mobility and comfort.
The vest also features a mesh back for ventilation. This design element ensures excellent airflow, keeping you cool during those warm, intense hunts. It enhances comfort, allowing you to focus on the hunt rather than dealing with discomfort from overheating.
The adjustable belt and shoulder straps of the Tenzing BV16 Upland Vest ensure a comfortable and secure fit. These features allow for customization of the vest’s fit, ensuring it sits comfortably and securely, regardless of the number of layers you’re wearing underneath. This adjustability makes the vest suitable for hunting in various weather conditions, from the chill of early morning hunts to the warmth of afternoon expeditions.
Badlands Pheasant Hunting Vest
The Badlands Pheasant Hunting Vest is a backpack-style hunting vest that offers an abundance of storage space. This design makes it an excellent choice for hunters who need to carry a lot of gear or for those embarking on extended hunting trips.
The vest features a large game bag for storing your catch. This bag provides ample space and is easy to access, making it a practical and convenient feature for any hunter.
In addition, the vest includes shell pockets for easy access to ammunition and multiple gear pockets for storing other hunting essentials. These features ensure that you have everything you need close at hand, enhancing your efficiency in the field.
The vest is constructed from a durable fabric that can withstand the rigors of the field. This ensures the vest provides reliable protection and functionality hunt after hunt.
The vest also features a mesh back for ventilation. This design element ensures excellent airflow, keeping you cool during those warm, intense hunts. It enhances comfort, allowing you to focus on the hunt rather than dealing with discomfort from overheating.
Top 5 Best Upland Hunting Vests
Here are the top 5 best upland hunting vests, let’s take a look:
First Place : Tenzing 962208 Bv16 Upland Vests
The Tenzing BV16 Upland Vest is a top-of-the-line option for serious bird hunters. It features a large, expandable game bag and specialized pockets for a shooting glasses case and a water bottle.
The vest is made from a durable, lightweight fabric and has a mesh back for ventilation. The adjustable belt and shoulder straps ensure a comfortable fit. This vest is a premium choice for upland hunting.
FEATURED SPECS
- Large, expandable game bag
- Specialized pockets for a shooting glasses case and a water bottle
- Durable, lightweight fabric
- Mesh back for ventilation
- Adjustable belt and shoulder straps
BENEFITS
- Durable and lightweight
- Ample storage space
- Comfortable fit
DRAWBACKS
- Higher price point compared to other vests
EXTRA FEATURES
- Protective flap for shell storage
- Oversized zippered pockets for additional storage
BUYING ADVICE
If you’re a serious bird hunter looking for a vest that offers superior comfort and functionality, the Tenzing BV16 Upland Vest is worth the investment. Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it a reliable choice for any upland hunting excursion.
Runner-up: Alps Outdoorz Extreme Upland Game Vest
The Alps Outdoorz Extreme Upland Game Vest is a comfortable and organized vest that makes the hunt enjoyable.
It offers a custom fit with adjustable side straps and features a roomy rear game bag with nylon lining for easy cleaning. The oil-finished Tin Cloth provides water-repellent, abrasion-resistant protection.
FEATURED SPECS
- Adjustable side straps
- Roomy rear game bag with nylon lining
- Oil finish Tin Cloth for water-repellent, abrasion-resistant protection
BENEFITS
- Custom-fit
- Easy to clean
- Durable and water-repellent
DRAWBACKS
- No drawbacks were reported.
EXTRA FEATURES
- Front bellows pockets for ample storage
BUYING ADVICE
If you value durability and functionality in a hunting vest, the Alps Outdoorz Extreme Upland Game Vest is a great choice.
Its adjustable fit and roomy storage make it a reliable companion for any hunting trip.
Alternative 1: Gamehide Switchgrass Upland Field Bird Hunting Vest
The Gamehide Switchgrass Upland Field Bird Hunting Vest is a versatile and functional choice for any bird hunter.
It features a large, front-loading game bag that’s easy to clean and shell loops for easy access to ammunition. The vest is made from a durable fabric that can withstand the rigors of the field.
It also has multiple pockets for gear storage. This vest is a reliable choice for any upland field bird hunting excursion.
FEATURED SPECS
- Large, front-loading game bag
- Shell loops for easy access to ammunition
- Durable fabric
BENEFITS
- Easy to clean
- Durable and can withstand the rigors of the field
- Ample storage space
DRAWBACKS
- Some users have reported issues with the sizing
EXTRA FEATURES
- Multiple pockets for gear storage
BUYING ADVICE
The Gamehide Switchgrass Upland Field Bird Hunting Vest is a solid choice for bird hunters.
Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it a reliable choice for any upland hunting excursion.
Alternative 2: Gamehide 3st Upland Front Loading Vest
The Gamehide 3st Upland Front Loading Vest is a durable and comfortable vest designed for the serious hunter. It features a large game bag, shell loops, and multiple pockets for gear storage.
The vest is made from a durable fabric that can withstand rough use. It also has quilted shoulder patches for added comfort when carrying heavy loads.
FEATURED SPECS
- Large game bag
- Shell loops
- Multiple pockets for gear storage
BENEFITS
- Durable and can withstand rough use
- Ample storage space
- Comfortable to wear
DRAWBACKS
- Some users have reported that the vest runs large
EXTRA FEATURES
- Quilted shoulder patches for added comfort
BUYING ADVICE
The Gamehide 3st Upland Front Loading Vest is a great choice for serious hunters. Its durable construction and ample storage make it a reliable choice for any hunting excursion.
Alternative 3: Beretta Men’s Upland Ultralight Hunting Vest
The Beretta Men’s Upland Ultralight Hunting Vest is designed for the aggressive upland bird hunter.
It is made from military-grade cotton twill with micro-ripstop blaze panels, keeping you dry and protected in thick grass and brambles.
The vest features large, expandable front cargo pockets, an internal security pocket, and chest pockets, providing ample storage space.
The large, watertight game bag fits 4-5 good-size pheasants and is seamless, so it won’t let any blood seep through.
FEATURED SPECS
- Military-grade cotton twill with micro-ripstop blaze panels
- Large, expandable front cargo pockets
- Internal security pockets and chest pockets
- Large, watertight game bag
BENEFITS
- Durable and water-resistant
- Ample storage space
- Large, watertight game bag
DRAWBACKS
- Some users have reported that the vest runs large
EXTRA FEATURES
- Seamless game bag to prevent blood seepage
BUYING ADVICE
The Beretta Men’s Upland Ultralight Hunting Vest is a great choice for aggressive upland bird hunters. Its durable construction and ample storage make it a reliable choice for any hunting excursion.
FAQs
What should I look for in a hunting vest?
When choosing a hunting vest, consider the following factors:
Material: The vest should be made from durable material that can withstand the rigors of the field. It should also be lightweight for comfort during long hunts.
Storage: Look for a vest with ample storage space. This includes a large game bag, shell loops, and multiple pockets for gear storage.
Fit: The vest should have adjustable straps for a custom fit. It should sit comfortably and securely, regardless of the number of layers you’re wearing underneath.
Ventilation: If you’re hunting in warm conditions, consider a vest with a mesh back for ventilation.
How much does a good upland vest cost?
The cost of an upland vest can vary widely depending on the brand, material, and features. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 for a basic vest to over $200 for a high-end model.
Which is better – a vest, or an upland coat?
The choice between a vest and an upland coat largely depends on personal preference and the conditions in which you’ll be hunting.
A vest is generally lighter and provides more freedom of movement, making it a good choice for warm weather.
An upland coat provides more coverage and protection, making it a better choice for cold weather or hunting in dense brush.
Is a game pouch really important?
Yes, a game pouch is an important feature in a hunting vest. It provides a place to store your game, keeping it separate from your other gear. Some game pouches are also blood-proof and easy to clean, making them a practical and convenient feature.
Final Thoughts on the Best Upland Hunting Vests
Choosing the right upland hunting vest can significantly enhance your hunting experience. The best vest for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but all of the vests reviewed in this article offer a blend of durability, comfort, and functionality.