Sitka vs. First lite

For hunters, having the right gear is essential to a successful hunt. And when it comes to hunting clothing, two brands stand out from the rest: First Lite and Sitka. Both brands offer high-quality hunting gear designed to perform in any hunting situation. In this article, we'll compare the two brands and see how they stack up against each other.

First Lite's focus is on creating durable and high-performance hunting clothing. First Lite uses Merino wool as a key material in their clothing, providing natural temperature control and moisture-wicking properties without retaining odor after long days on the hunt. Their clothing is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for extended hunts out of a backpack. They were also the first in the game to design a merino wool textile with a camouflage pattern. Instead of using mainstream textiles like Gore-tex, First Lite uses a proprietary blend.

At first, this may seem like a negative towards the company. The author, in the past, has used proprietary textiles from other well-known companies and experienced lackluster performance compared to the tried and trusted Gore-Tex brand. However, this is not the case with First Lite. The author has extensively used their gear and trusts their implementation of fabrics. Their rain gear is top-notch, and the insulation performs above expectations.

First Lite offers camouflage patterns that work well in the appropriate environment. The author has found that their clothing has a slightly looser fit compared to the common "athletic cut" many are used to. This is fine, though, as the brand focuses on hunting performance rather than aesthetics. It just fits slightly differently than what users may be accustomed to.

The First Lite brand is also well-represented by the gang at Meateater, led by Steve Rinella, an expert hunter, conservationist, author, and reported to be a super good dude.

Sitka is a highly established brand in the hunting gear industry. Their focus is on creating high-performance hunting clothing designed to withstand the harshest conditions. Sitka's clothing is made from advanced, well-known, and trusted materials such as Gore-Tex, which provides superior protection against wind and rain while remaining breathable and durable. Their clothing is designed to be durable and versatile, suitable for any hunting situation.

When it comes to price, Sitka tends to be more expensive than First Lite. Sitka has built its reputation on producing clothing with no expense spared. For users who find themselves in remote locations, investing significant time and money into a hunt, this should be seen as a pro rather than a con. It's also important to note that the gear you have with you may save your life if conditions deteriorate. The careful planning evident in Sitka's gear design is a testament to how their products are created, similar to First Lite.

Sitka simplifies the selection of equipment for a hunt with its gear selector. By answering a few questions about the type of hunt and expected weather conditions, the gear selector narrows down the options to match your needs.

The author is a fan of Sitka's camouflage patterns, which provide excellent concealability in certain environments. Additionally, they have a visually appealing aesthetic, which, although subjective, is an important factor to consider. Sitka's fitment is more modern and athletic, which may or may not align with your personal preference.

Both brands offer a variety of options to suit every hunter's needs. What sets each brand apart is that First Lite's clothing tends to incorporate Merino wool and proprietary textiles, while Sitka focuses on using well-known, trusted, and proven materials, with an emphasis on synthetic fabrics. Both brands create excellent, well-thought-out products with features you will certainly appreciate.

Overall, both First Lite and Sitka offer excellent hunting gear designed to perform in any hunting situation. Choosing between the two brands ultimately comes down to personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of the hunter. The author tends to utilize a mix of both brands. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, investing in high-quality hunting gear is essential for a successful hunt. So, do your research, compare your options, and choose the gear that is right for you.