As an avid outdoorsman and hunting enthusiast, I recently had the opportunity to test out the SKRE Gear Guardian camo jacket and bib combination during my late season hunting expeditions. After several outings in varied conditions, I’m excited to share my thoughts on this gear.
What I tested:
- SKRE Camo Guardian Jacket – $335.95
- SKRE Camo Guardian Bib – $435.95
- SKRE Camo Guardian Beanie Hat – $29.95
Design and Construction:
The first thing that struck me about the SKRE Camo Guardian jacket and bibs was their exceptional design and construction. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, both the jacket and bibs are made from high-quality materials that are durable and quiet, yet surprisingly lightweight.
Zippers are waterproof YKK designs that are easy to get started, even with cold fingers. The Summit camo pattern proved incredibly effective for blending into different environments in the late season whitetail woods in the northeast hardwood forests, providing excellent concealment while out in the field. It is also available in a Solace camo pattern. The lightly brushed polyester fabric on the outer layer is very quiet when moving through brush in the field.
Comfort and Fit:
Comfort is paramount during long hours spent outdoors, and I was pleased to find that the SKRE Camo Guardian combo excelled in this aspect. The jacket and bibs offer a comfortable fit with ample room for layering underneath without feeling restrictive. Knees and shoulders are articulated to make movement easier and still retain the insulation loft for warmth.
The adjustable features, such as the cuffs, waist, and shoulder straps on the bibs, allow for a customized fit that ensures freedom of movement without sacrificing performance. The rubber backing on the suspenders makes them ride well and not fall off your shoulder as you trek to your stand. Warmth is provided by premium duck down insulation that helps the combination to move quietly and easily when the moment of truth comes, and you need to find a shooting position.
Weather Resistance:
One of the standout features of the SKRE Camo Guardian gear is its impressive weather resistance. Whether faced with rain, wind, or snow, the jacket and bibs kept me dry and protected from the elements. The waterproof and windproof Teflon 3-proof material effectively repelled moisture and blocked out cold winds, allowing me to stay comfortable and focused on the hunt even in adverse conditions.
The fully attached hood made sure that no wind or water could force its way down the back of the jacket. The hood design is exceptional with a perfectly sized brim to keep water from dripping onto your face, plus it is cut on the sides so that as you turn your head 90 degrees the edge of the hood does not obscure your vision. Knowing that you lose a significant amount of heat through your head and neck area, it is fleece-lined to add to the warmth capability of the jacket, and it zips up high over your mouth to partially cover your face.
Functionality and Features:
Both the jacket and bibs are packed with practical features designed to enhance the hunting experience. The articulated elbows and knees ensure ease of movement, while the ventilation zippers on the jacket help regulate body temperature during strenuous activities.
The jacket boasts multiple pockets for convenient storage of essential gear, including large fleece lined pockets for gloved hands and bulky items plus small pockets for snacks and cell phones.
The tree harness sleeve has a generous flap to ensure that weather has no chance to get into the jacket through that opening. The main zipper is a large, waterproof design that is strong but easy to get started. Jacket weight is a modest 2.5 pounds.
The bibs feature reinforced knees and seat for added durability in high-wear areas. Waterproof zippers run the full length of each side so getting into and out of the bibs is easy, even with large boots on your feet. High-mounted, large cargo pockets can carry lots of gear, without allowing the gear to slip down low as you walk and slap against your knees. The bibs sport fleece lined hand pockets similar in size to the jacket, and a secure inside pocket for a wallet or cell phone. Bibs weigh just over 3.5 pounds.
Price point Comparison:
Considering the most important attributes of warmth, weather-resistance, and fit, the SKRE Guardian series jacket/bib/beanie combination provides exceptional value. Other established brands with significantly higher prices have typically occupied the top-of-mind awareness of hunters when considering these characteristics, but SKRE has created a worthy challenge, especially at the price points of this set.
Overall Performance:
In terms of performance, the SKRE Camo Guardian jacket and bib combination exceeded my expectations. It is very comfortable and warm, and I found that I liked to walk in just the bibs and a light fleece jacket and wait to put the heavy Guardian jacket on once I got to my stand location. It is just too warm to do any real movement while fully clothed with the whole package.
From its superior camouflage properties to its exceptional comfort and weather resistance, this gear proved to be reliable and functional in every aspect. The SKRE Guardian Beanie was a great addition to the package for both comfort and warmth. Whether stalking game in dense forests or braving harsh weather conditions in open fields, the SKRE Camo Guardian combination kept me comfortable, concealed, and ready for action. SKRE boasts a full lifetime warranty that states you can return at any time for a refund or exchange.
Conclusion:
The SKRE Camo Guardian jacket and bib combination is a top-notch hunting gear ensemble that delivers both performance and quality. With its thoughtful design, superior construction, and innovative features, this gear is a must-have for any serious hunter looking to enhance their cold weather outdoor experience. I highly recommend the SKRE Camo Guardian to fellow hunters seeking dependable gear that can withstand the rigors of the cold, wet and wild.
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