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Layering for Elk Hunting: The Best Clothing for Any Weather

Layering for Elk Hunting: The Best Clothing for Any Weather

Feb 14, 2025

Elk hunting takes you through rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and extreme conditions that demand a proper layering system to stay warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the hunt. Whether you're pursuing elk in early fall’s mild conditions or braving late-season snow, knowing how to layer correctly is critical to your performance, endurance, and success in the field.

This guide will walk you through the three essential layers (base, insulation, and outer shell) for elk hunting and how to adjust your setup for different weather conditions.

Get ready for Elk Season with SKRE Gear

 SKRE Gear® offers everything you need for your hunt. A variety of base layers and other gear to choose from to help you stay comfortable during the entirety of your hunt.

 
Shop Gear for Elk Hunters

Understanding the Three-Layer System for Elk Hunting

Why Layering is Essential

A good layering system is designed to:

  • Regulate your body temperature in changing weather conditions.

  • Wick moisture away from your skin to prevent sweat buildup and chilling.

  • Shield against wind, rain, and snow to keep you dry and warm.

Failing to layer correctly can result in overheating, sweat buildup, or dangerously cold temperatures, all of which can ruin your hunt.

The Three-Layer System Explained

The key to staying comfortable while elk hunting is mastering these three layers:

  • Base Layer: Wicks moisture and regulates temperature.
  • Insulation Layer: Traps body heat to keep you warm.
  • Outer Shell: Protects against wind, rain, and snow.

Each layer works together to help you stay warm and dry without overheating or becoming too bulky.

Choosing the Right Base Layer for Elk Hunting

The Role of the Base Layer

The base layer is the most important piece in your layering system. It sits closest to your skin and controls moisture management by pulling sweat away and drying quickly.

Best Materials for Base Layers

  • Merino Wool: The best option for elk hunters due to its natural insulation, moisture-wicking, and odor resistance (great for multi-day hunts). Check our our merino wool here. 

  • Synthetic Blends: Quick-drying and lightweight but less effective at odor control than merino wool.

Recommended Base Layer Clothing from SKRE Gear

For Warm Weather (Above 50°F)

  • SKRE Gear Kaibab 150 Merino Wool Top – A lightweight, breathable merino wool base layer designed for moisture-wicking and temperature regulation during early-season hunts.

For Mid-Season (30°F - 50°F)

For Extreme Cold (Below 30°F)

Selecting the Right Insulation Layer

The Role of the Insulation Layer

The insulation layer traps body heat while still allowing moisture to escape so you don’t overheat. The thickness and material of your insulation depend on the temperature and your hunting activity level.

Types of Insulation for Elk Hunting

  • Fleece: Lightweight and breathable, great for moderate cold.

  • Synthetic Insulation (PrimaLoft, Thinsulate): Keeps warmth even when wet.

  • Down Insulation: Best for dry, extreme cold, but loses warmth when wet.

Recommended Insulation Layers

For Mild Conditions (40°F - 50°F)

  • SKRE Gear Kaibab 300 Merino Wool Hoodie – Lightweight and good for high-activity hunts.

 

 

For Cold Conditions (20°F - 40°F)

For Extreme Cold (-20°F - 20°F)

Choosing the Right Outer Shell for Protection

The Role of the Outer Shell

The outer layer shields you from wind, rain, and snow while allowing sweat to escape.

Types of Outer Shells

  • Softshell Jackets – Great for mild, dry weather; highly breathable.

  • Hardshell Jackets – Waterproof and windproof for extreme conditions.

  • Hybrid Jackets – A mix of both, balancing weather resistance and breathability.

Recommended Outer Layers

For Mild Weather (Dry & Breezy)

For Cold & Wet Conditions

  • SKRE Gear Nebo Rain Jacket – A lightweight, fully waterproof hardshell designed for maximum protection against rain and harsh weather, while maintaining breathability for active hunts.

For Late-Season & Extreme Cold


Get ready for Elk Season with SKRE Gear

 SKRE Gear® offers everything you need for your hunt. A variety of base layers and other gear to choose from to help you stay comfortable during the entirety of your hunt.

 
Shop Gear for Elk Hunters

Adapting Your Layering System to Different Weather Conditions

Warm Weather Elk Hunting (Above 50°F)

  • Lightweight merino wool base layer

  • No insulation layer (or a light fleece vest)

  • Softshell outer layer for wind protection

Mid-Season Hunts (30°F - 50°F)

  • Midweight merino wool base layer

  • Insulated puffy jacket for warmth

  • Water-resistant shell for unpredictable weather

Cold Weather & Late-Season Hunts (Below 30°F)

  • Heavyweight merino wool base layer

  • Thick down or synthetic insulation layer

  • Fully waterproof & windproof outer shell

Essential Layering Accessories for Elk Hunting

Socks & Gaiters

  • Merino wool socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough) for warmth & moisture control.

  • Waterproof gaiters (Outdoor Research) to keep feet dry in wet/snowy conditions.

Gloves & Headwear

  • Thin gloves are for mild weather, whereas insulated gloves are for extreme cold.

  • Merino wool beanie or balaclava to retain body heat.

Pants & Leg Layers

  • Breathable, quick-drying hunting pants for warm weather.

  • Insulated, waterproof hunting pants for cold, wet conditions.

Conclusion

A proper layering system is essential for staying comfortable, dry, and protected during elk hunts in varying weather conditions. You can adapt to changing temperatures and terrain without sacrificing mobility or stealth by using the right base, insulation, and outer layers. Gear up for your hunts with SKRE Gear. 

EJ Saunders