Best Wool Hunting Pants [2021 Top Picks]

| Last Updated December 21, 2021

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Throughout human history, wool has been among the most popular and used clothing materials.

If you’re reading this, then it is more than likely that to a certain extent it has already made its way into your closet or you could be wearing it right now. One can argue that we still use this material because it’s cheaper and more traditional than other fabrics and one may be wrong.

The insulation properties that wool has are almost unmatched, besides it’s comfortable and flexible, making it ideal for equipment designed for the outdoors.

Comparison of the Best Wool Hunting Pants

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Designed to Keep Sounds to a Minimum
  • It Has Antibacterial Properties That Control Your Scent
  • The Fabric Absorbs Light Instead of Reflecting it Which Keeps You Concealed
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  • The Most Durable Pants, as They Can Last for Decades
  • Exceptional Insulation Properties in a Traditional Design
  • Excellent Design for People Who May Be Prone to Allergies
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  • Best Merino Wool Option
  • Includes a Belt for Easy Adjustments
  • Resistant Against the Elements and Different Types of Weather
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  • Best Women’s Wool Option
  • Tailored Specifically for the Comfort of Women
  • Extremely Durable Product that Can Last for Years
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  • Best Lightweight Option
  • A Versatile Combination of Different Clothes and Wool
  • Includes Under Armour's Breathable Fabric Technology
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  • Camo pattern allows for blending in with surroundings
  • Made from merino wool to provide odor-eliminating advantages
  • Designed in an athletic fit for free movement
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  • Best for the Money
  • 60 gram light insulation provides breathable water resistance
  • Added scent control technology keeps the user undetectable
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Is Wool a Good Material to Wear While Hunting?

There are many types of wool which vary depending on the type of sheep.

This material generally shares the same traits and properties, most of them are very beneficial for people in cold temperatures. First of all, it's comfortable, otherwise, its use wouldn't be so widespread around the globe.

Wool (Source)

This fabric keeps you warm by retaining and holding in the heat your body constantly creates. This is called insulation. No textile generates heat by itself, but some are better than others when it comes to retention of it and wool is among the best for this because it can also do this, even while wet. Also, the textile is breathable, meaning that you won’t be sweating as much.

Are All Wool Pants The Same?

Wool pants are great for hunting. They are durable, effective, and fully breathable. Almost all pants will come with these features; however, that doesn’t imply that all of them are going to be exactly the same. If you want your next hunting pants to be the best ones, you need to keep in mind a number of factors that make each pair different from the other.

The biggest difference between these pants is obviously the price. You will find some very reasonably priced products in the market that you can get in less than $100. However, you will also find products that will cost you more than that. Although not all expensive products are better, with wool pants, cheaper products do tend to be less durable.

Moreover, wool pants also differ in some of their crucial features. Some will offer complete resistance against water, whereas others come with great odor resistance. Moreover, some will offer suspenders while others won’t.

What Makes Wool Pants Great For Hunting?

Hunting is one of the most enjoyable and excruciating exercises that people indulge in. It requires your utmost patience and attention, so the last thing you need to worry about while you are hunting is your comfort. Wool pants are highly recommended when it comes to hunting. They come with some great features; here is a short overview of them.

Comfort

Hunters need to be completely at ease when they hunt. This is because the minute they feel restless or uncomfortable, they will lose focus and will end up missing their targets. 

Hunting also takes up most of the day and often needs to be done in the daytime, so you need to ensure that your pants are fully breathable and don’t make you very sweaty. So while choosing your product, make sure you feel good in them. 

Better Freedom of Movement

Hunting also demands quickness. You will have to move around a great deal if you want to catch your prey. To help with this, wool pants offer a good and athletic fit that is great for the freedom of your movements. 

These will also help make you feel confident. This obviously then translates into your success on the ground. You will also be able to cover more ground with better pants.

Greater Choice and Fit

When it comes to hunting wool pants, rest assured that you will fit into them. If you are in a hurry and don’t find one that fits you perfectly, you don’t have to fret. Most wool pants, especially in this review, come with a set of suspenders. These will ensure that you fit perfectly into your pants.

Water Resistance

Hunting happens in the open, and the weather can be really unpredictable on some days. This is why you need to prepare yourself for all kinds of situations, so you don’t end up missing out on a wonderful day. Wool pants offer greater water resistance, which means that even in the rain, you will be able to enjoy your day out.

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

Keep these aspects in mind throughout this review.

Clothing Insulation

Some products sometimes incorporate different materials in order to keep them warmer, but that may not be a benefit if the climate around you is not extreme. Your choice of product should reflect the conditions you’re going to be against, otherwise, you’ll find yourself in the ironic situation of being too hot in the snow.

Size

When acquiring wool clothing, you may want it a size larger than you need so that in extreme situations you’ll be able to wear another layer of clothing and still be comfortable. The tricky part is that some companies already manufacture their products a size bigger. Sizing is always potentially an issue while shopping online so paying extra attention to details is necessary.

Filson x Mossy Oak® Camo Mackinaw Wool Field Pants

Design 

The way different equipment stands out from other options is how good their properties are or how they fit your tasks. You want to ask yourself if you require a waterproof model, a more silent one, or pants with more carrying space.

Review of the Best Wool Hunting Pants

Taking into account the necessities of a hunter, here are the best options that may accommodate to your objective or needs:

Best Overall:
First Lite- Obsidian Merino Pants

First Lite Obsidian Pants

PROS

  • Nylon fabric is very durable
  • Suspenders are included in the package
  • Comes with a built-in stretch mechanism
  • Completely breathable and doesn’t tire you
  • Offers an articulated fit for a range of motions
  • Lots of sizes
  • Minimal noise
  • Fire resistance
  • Light absorbing
  • Scent controlled
  • Breathable textiles

CONS

  • Maintenance requires time 
  • Durability is heavily dependent on proper care

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers spent a good amount of money on these wool pants, so they weren’t ready to compromise on any of the features, and they certainly didn’t have to. The model comes with a set of suspenders that allows for better fitting and a customizable outfit. Moreover, it is made with a fully breathable material. This not only keeps you comfortable but also ensures you enjoy your experience to the maximum.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us because of its high reliability. Hunting can get really rough, and a cheap product is more likely to get torn off and damaged every now and then. Hence, it is extremely important that the fabric you use for your pants offers greater durability. This will not only help it to retain texture but will also ensure that your pants don’t tear or get damaged by the rough forest conditions.

A common issue that many clothing manufacturers ignore is the way natural clothes reflect UV light, making them more visible to deer. This model takes care of that by offering a lighter absorbent option, thanks to their wool choice. Merino wool is one of the most relevant types of wool worldwide. It’s soft and thin but can still retain a lot of heat.

Another exceptional trait is odor control. The material itself is antibacterial, meaning that you’ll remain odorless even after several days of use. This is quite critical when it comes to concealability because aside from sound and sight, the smell is one of the most likely ways animals can spot you.

The material used in these pants is breathable, so sweating is not an issue while it retains your body heat. The design is fire-resistant and also hinders sound, so you can still be stealthy. Sadly, the other materials used to implement these features are not as durable as the wool used in the pants, so without proper care, they can start to develop tears inside the cloth.

In terms of sizing, the manufacturer offers a wide selection of options and they already come with enough space for you to wear another layer of clothing under them, meaning that in this particular scenario you should not get one size bigger than you as is usually recommended.

Bottom Line

With its highly durable design and other salient features like high breathability, this model is deserving of being on this list. Its fabric offers greater strength and finesse and ensures that hunters get the maximum flexibility. Moreover, it also ensures ease of motion, which comes in handy when you have to move places. So if you want a product that will last for a longer time, then this is the one for you.

The excellent thing about this product is that it’s designed to keep you concealed in terms of sight, sound, and scent. The fabric choice has excellent heat retention qualities, making it a generally effective piece of equipment.

Best for the Money:
Johnson Woolen Mills Famous Spruce Green Wool Pants

PROS

  • Promises better scent control
  • Design prevents any allergies
  • Offers relatively more durability than other models
  • Provides good camouflage in an open environment
  • Comes with high insulation that keeps you feeling refreshed for longer time
  • Stain-resistant
  • Excellent quality
  • Easy on allergies
  • Durable hand-made designs

CONS

  • Once torn, the pair is difficult to repair
  • Does not come with a very good warranty
  • Lack of storage space
What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers are extremely hard to fool. These are the people who have already spent a good amount of money on the product and are honest in their reviews. Thankfully for you, these pants have received nothing but praise. Buyers have complimented the strong and sturdy design. They also like the high insulation factor that keeps them fresh for a longer time.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Hunting is not a child’s play, and more often than not, it can be really dangerous. So hunters need to be prepared for all kinds of situations when they go out in the open. One crucial factor that all wool pants should offer is a better camouflage. This comes in handy when hunters have to hide from animals and catch their prey from a distance, and this pair provides just that.  

Moreover, better scent control also comes in handy as it ensures that animals don’t recognize your scent and run away.

If you're looking for a long-lasting, quality-driven product, this is an option you should consider. Johnson Woolen Mills products have been around for more than two centuries and the insulation properties of their handmade pants are so good that they are known as "iceman pants."

Not only does this fabric have the same water and wind-resistant properties as your everyday wool product, but they also assist with reducing allergies that some individuals may be prone to when using wool. So while they’re the most traditional option on the list, they don’t lack in terms of design or usefulness.

This choice is known for its durability. With proper care, the pants can last from several years up to multiple decades. They’re stain-resistant and easy to take care of. Unfortunately, it does lack storage space, if that is really important-nonetheless, the unique qualities of these pants outweigh their limited carry options.

Bottom Line

If you are looking for one of the most durable designs in the market, then go no further because these Johnson wool pants are all you need. The design is one of its kind as it comes with better camouflage abilities and ensures scent control. Moreover, it is suitable for people with allergies. Its high insulation and high water resistance make it the best material for people who hunt for longer hours.

At a time when everything seems designed to expire or become obsolete within a certain amount of time, it is refreshing to have an option that, when well-taken care of, can last for a lifetime. It’s like the products of old, that lasted for many years.

Best Merino Wool Pants:
Icebreaker Merino Men's Ika

PROS

  • Safe for a full machine wash
  • Offers secured zippered hand pockets
  • Comes with an articulated knee design
  • Features a front fly with a smooth zip closure
  • Made of 100% wool with no additional materials
  • Breathable
  • Flexible design
  • High insulation
  • Integrated belt
  • Wind and water-resistant
  • Secure, zippered front pocket
  • Secured deep pockets keep equipment in place

CONS

  • A bit warm
  • Do not come with durable suspenders
  • Sizing problems

What Recent Buyers Report

Users love products that offer wind resistance as well as water resistance, which makes the pants wonderful for all kinds of weather. Whether you are scouting for the hunting season or you are simply casting for a trout, you can enjoy a good day out in these pants. Moreover, the pair contains tons of pockets that you can use to hold stuff with ease.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The model is one of the most exquisite ones out there, and it stands out mostly because of its zippered hand pockets. When it comes to hunting, you need a lot of things to keep in your pockets. You can put a snack or two, or some useful hunting equipment in your pockets. These pants come with front fly zip closures that make it easy to access items.

Style doesn't have to be sacrificed while hunting. These pants do more than look good as they also offer a lot of utility and comfort in most climates. This model is made with Merino wool, and as stated before, this fabric offers a set of properties that can perform excellently for hunting gear because they have exceptional thermal insulation and can still be worn even after being submerged in water.

The design offers wind and water resistance so it is not restricted to only snowy climates. In addition to this, it’s breathable for multi-weather purposes and sweat regulation. The knees are articulated for a more natural range of motion.

In terms of storage, it offers a secured zippered front pocket to keep extra equipment in place. For better adjustment and fitting, it comes with an integrated belt, although sizing tends to be an issue, so in case you want to wear a layer of clothes underneath, go for a bigger size.

Bottom Line

There are products that are reliable, those that offer customizability, and then there are these amazing wool pants that amalgamate all the brilliant features required for hunting. They are made with 100% wool and are suitable for a full machine wash. The articulated knee design is made so that you can sit, crawl, and climb without any issue.

This product is ideal for people that have a more traditional taste in clothing. It has all the qualities of a versatile model that can keep you warm and protected in different types of situations. Sizing is an issue so it's recommended to always aim for a bigger size.

Best Womens Wool Hunting Pants:
Mackinaw Wool Field Pants

PROS

  • Made with a 100% virgin wool
  • Can accommodate a range of belts
  • Comes with a buttoned top closure
  • Has 4 flap pockets and 2 slash pockets
  • Relatively cheaper than most other products

CONS

  • Slightly heavier than some other models
  • Does not come with a very good scent control

What Recent Buyers Report

Women have a hard time choosing their favorite products, but when they do, they are absolutely sure of them. These pants deliver on all its promises. They are made with 100% virgin wool and can accommodate a range of different belts. This not only gives room for more diversity but also gives hunters more recognizability.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The best thing about this model is its high affordability. Hunters already spend a lot of money on hunting equipment, and they surely don’t want to spend too much on their outfits. With this model, they don’t have to. Moreover, since these pants are made especially for women, they also offer finesse and appear very stylish. So women can get to wear something trendy while also being comfortable.

Bottom Line

High water resistance and better affordability come together in the making of this model. These pants come with a top closure that is fully buttoned. Not only that, but the purity of the material also makes them more reliable. You will get high durability, which will ensure the model retains its texture and strength for a longer time.

Best Lightweight Wool Hunting Pants:
Under Armour Men's Core Wool Pant

Under Armour UA Stealth Reaper Mid Season Wool

PROS

  • Completely water repellant
  • Allows for a full machine wash
  • Use of bonded stretch wool offers lightweight warmth
  • High-end construction prevents the fabric from rustling
  • Coincidental disruption technology offers greater durability
  • Quiet fabric
  • Wind-resistant
  • Water-resistant
  • Versatile design
  • Detailed sizing chart

CONS

  • Not made with 100% wool
  • Does not come with a great warranty
  • Other fabrics are more prominent than wool

What Recent Buyers Report

Many people are thrilled to have found a perfect pair of pants for their hunting trips. These aren’t only extremely lightweight but also absorb all the moisture and expel them into the air. Moreover, they also offer greater scent control, which not only helps to absorb sweat but also keeps all the animals away from you. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This imported design is a breath of fresh air as it offers almost all the features that hunters are looking for. The quiet construction of the model prevents the fabric from rustling so that you can use it for a longer time. Moreover, the high-end technology also offers durability, which is great for all your hunting extravaganza.

This option is put together including all the numerous traits an exceptional pair of wool pants requires and executes them flawlessly. Under Armour is known for their special insulation design that protects the wearer without sacrificing comfortability. The material used here is mostly wool with the integration of different fabrics that excel at different tasks.

In addition to their heat retention qualities, this is a water-resistant choice. The technology used by the manufacturer doesn't sacrifice breathability, so you can wear them in different types of climates, making them a versatile alternative.

The camo is designed to get you to blend in with the environment, which is a complete addition when hunting for specific prey that is not colorblind to the design. The measurement and sizing chart is pretty detailed so you can find an option that is excellent for you. The only downside is the fact that the combined other fabrics offer more than the wool.

Bottom Line

Hunting can be really tough, especially if you are wearing something really heavy. But luckily for you, these pants are extremely lightweight and will offer you greater breathability. Moreover, they offer a good machine wash. The high-end construction also prevents the fabric from rustling or withering away. Moreover, high water resistance also comes in handy when it’s raining.

Under Armor is known for its effective health isolation technology, so you can rely on this option for different types of situations and weathers. The attention to detail on the model is excellent, and while it is not 100% made of wool, it certainly feels like it is.

7. Filson x Mossy Oak® Camo Mackinaw Wool Field Pants

PROS

  • Offers high resistance against water
  • Wool is non-reflective of the UV light
  • Comes with 7 belt loops and suspenders
  • Promises lasting color retention because of its woven pattern
  • Provides the full range of motion, making it suitable for hunting
  • Flexible design
  • Water repellent
  • Breathable fabric
  • Good carrying capacity
  • Lifetime repair warranty
  • Sound reduction is building

CONS

  • Do not offer a very good camouflage
  • Slightly heavier than some other models
  • Limited sizing chart
What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers couldn’t be happier with the amazing performance of these pants. They have particularly complimented the long-lasting color retention that is ensured via its woven patterns. Moreover, the wool offers protection from UV lighting. This means that regardless of how sunny it gets, you won’t have to worry about it. 

Lastly, the model also comes with a 7 belt loop and a set of suspenders to keep you comfortable.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Amongst many other features, this model mainly stands for its diverse functionality. It is suitable for all kinds of temperatures, and it offers the same level of perfection, regardless of when you hunt in it. It also comes with a straight leg design that offers a full range of motion. You can crawl, climb, and even sit in these pants without any issue.

While most of these options are wearable by women and men alike, sometimes it’s better to have products specifically designed to accommodate each requirement and demand. In menswear, this is the best option on the list as it is mapped to comfortably match the male body while protecting it from wind, cold, and snow situations.

This product allows for a considerable amount of mobility, and thanks to the fabric properties, it produces minimal noise. The cloth is breathable so it is useful in warmer conditions without causing a lot of sweat. It absorbs UV light so it’s harder to see. In terms of material, it is a mix of cotton and mostly wool, both of which have excellent insulation properties. While it is not waterproof, it can absorb a considerable amount of water without becoming damp, up to around 30% of its own weight.

Filson offers a vast variety of sizes that are critical for those that want a customizable option, but their sizing chart is not the friendliest. The pants come with seven belt loops and a metal adjuster, should you want to use suspenders. It also has quite a considerable amount of carrying space with the addition of deep front pockets. The quality of the pants is really good but the best part is that they come with a lifetime warranty so these pants may be your partner for a long time.

Bottom Line

These pants are designed for well-dressed male hunters. These classic mackinaw wool field pants are known to be really comfortable for any mid to late season hunts in a number of weather conditions. Its high water resistance allows you to hunt in the rain, and its high breathability makes it suitable for hot and sunny weather. 

So if you want more ease and freedom of movement, then this is the product you should end up buying.

The best thing about having equipment designed for you is that it is more efficient and comfortable to wear. The fabric is designed to keep you concealed and protected in many different situations, thanks to its versatile build.

Pros and Cons of Wearing Wool Pants While Hunting 

Hunting comes with a lot of stakes. When you go out for hunting, you want to be absolutely successful. This can either be in the form of you catching prey, or it could simply be you enjoying your day. To help you make an informed decision, we will be highlighting both pros and cons of hunting wool pants.

Pros

Let’s first go through the advantages:

Lightweight

Hunting requires you to move from place to place quite often, so you want your pants to be as lightweight as possible. Wool is known for its low weight. This not only ensures quick movements but also increases breathability. You are less likely to feel suffocated wearing wool pants.

Durability

Wool pants don’t offer high breathability at the cost of durability. Wool is known to be one of the most durable materials out there. It can retain its texture and design even after you have gone through a rough day. High durability also translates into longevity.

Moisture Absorbent

You are likely to sweat a lot when you are hunting. It’s an extraneous job that requires a lot of hard work, so you need a fabric that can absorb all the moisture. Wool is known to absorb your sweat and release the particles in the air. 

Moreover, it also comes with scent control, which ensures that you don’t end up smelling bad at the end of the day. This feature also helps manage smell at a microbial level. So the smell is undetectable by any animals in the area too.

Cons

A few limitations, however, include:

Maintenance

One drawback of using wool pants is that they require a lot of care and maintenance. The material tends to require washing every now and then. Moreover, you also need to ensure that you don’t wash it too strenuously because that is likely to damage the material of your pants.

Weight

If you go for a heavier product, you are more likely to get more warmth and protection, but heavier pants are also more likely to make you sweaty and hence lead to exhaustion.

First Lite Obsidian Pants in use. (Source)

Wool vs. Cotton Pants for Hunting - Comparison Overview 

No hunter can be the real deal unless he has the absolutely best pants. There is still an ongoing debate in the market regarding the type of pants that are the best for the purpose. There are two major stakeholders in this debate; wool pants and cotton pants. So let’s see which one is better for hunting.

Material

Both cotton and wool offer good quality material, which is strong and reliable. This ensures that you can use the pants for a long time. 

Wool is composed of a lot of amino acids and hence offers excellent absorbency. This helps retain the texture of the fabric for a longer time. 

On the other hand, cotton is made of a cotton ball, which is a natural cellulosic fiber. It also comes with the ability to absorb water. So both these fabrics have excellent water retention.

Warmth

Wool tends to be warmer than cotton. It can also give you greater protection, but this protection definitely comes at a cost. You need to run and chase your prey, so wearing a warm substance might be uncomfortable at times. On the other hand, cotton tends to be relatively lightweight and hence offers less warmth and more breathability.

Elasticity and Comfort

Hunting also requires individuals to feel comfortable, and that is made possible with wool pants. These tend to have good resilience and good elasticity. You will fit right into your pants on any given day. Although cotton is also comfortable to wear, it doesn’t offer as much resistance as wool pants.

Drying Speed

When it comes to hunting, it is important that your clothes also dry up quickly. You can sweat a lot, or you can face rain showers, so you need your pants to come with good water absorption. Wool pants tend to absorb water quickly and release all the moisture into the air.

How to Wash Wool Pants

The best method of washing wool equipment is by hand. You can fill up a sink with water and throw in the recommended amount of cleaning product, which should be on the shampoo’s label. Submerge the pants in the water and make sure they get fully wet. Let them soak for 30 minutes, rinse, and let dry. The water may pick up some of the colors of the pants but this is not a major issue, as this also happens with machines.

When it comes to drying, the best way to do so is by avoiding machines. It’s advised to steam them in order to reduce odors. This is done with an iron or a steamer. Be careful about perfumes or scents that certain cleaning shampoos may bring on them as animals can pick up on them easily.

Conclusion

Wool pants are practical and effective when it comes to keeping you warm. They may be thick, but the right models can give you a great deal of mobility and utility. Thanks to wool’s properties, this is one of the most effective pieces of equipment you can own to keep you warm and concealed.

For more information on hunting pants we have you covered.

People Also Ask

People take hunting very seriously. For most people, it is more than just a sport. People tend to be really enthusiastic about it, and that shows on the internet. We found a lot of commonly asked questions that were asked by consumers. To help them make the right decision, here are the answers to some of the most asked ones.

How to Shrink Wool Pants?

Shrinking wool pants isn’t that hard. You need to wash them in hot water or in a washing machine and let them stay overnight or for some hours.

According to experts, the inner layer, as well as the core of the wool, will pull the cortex once it’s in water. The shrinkage can range between 10 and 30. This depends on the type of fabric you use.

How to Stretch Wool Pants?

You can stretch wool pants by following a few simple steps. You can start off by soaking the wool in a bath of lukewarm water. You can add either hair conditioner or baby shampoo too. Then you need to take the wool outside and gently stretch it manually. This will ensure you get the original dimensions. In less than 15 minutes, you will notice that your garment is back to its normal size.

How Durable Are Wool Pants?

One of the best things about wool fabric is that it is highly durable. It can withstand a lot of rough situations. It can also bend more than 20000 times before it can actually break. On the other hand, other pant materials such as cotton can only bend 3000 times.



My name is Caleb and I am obsessed with hunting, fishing, and foraging. To be successful, you have to think like your prey. You have to get into the mind of your target - and understand Big Game Logic. If you have any questions, or just want chat about your latest hunting score or big catch, you can reach me at admin@biggamelogic.com. Read more about Big Game Logic.