Merkel Gear hunting clothing

Which Merkel Gear hunting clothing should you choose?

Not every Merkel Gear garment performs the same function. Lightweight models prioritise breathability and mobility, while other garments include a waterproof membrane, a water-repellent DWR finish or additional insulation for demanding winter conditions.

• Stalking and active hunting: choose lightweight, flexible and breathable garments that move with the body.
• Dense or abrasive vegetation: look for hard-wearing fabrics, reinforced seams and articulated knees.
• Rain and wind: check whether the garment has a waterproof membrane or only a water-repellent surface treatment.
• Cold-weather stand hunting: combine a merino base layer with an insulating mid-layer and a weatherproof outer layer.
• Driven hunting: high-visibility panels and pockets for a radio, dog-tracking device or ammunition are particularly useful.
• Year-round use: select versatile layers that can be worn separately or combined as conditions change.

Merkel Gear hunting jackets

A hunting jacket should match the weather, terrain and intensity of the activity. A heavily insulated parka may become too warm during an active stalk, while a lightweight fleece may not provide sufficient protection during a long winter wait.

Reversible Helix jacket for active hunting

The women’s Merkel Gear Helix jacket combines durable fleece with a windproof and highly water-repellent WND-X membrane. Its reversible construction allows the wearer to switch between a discreet outer colour and a high-visibility orange side.

Raglan sleeves help reduce pressure points when carrying a rucksack. Pockets for radios or dog-tracking devices and integrated antenna loops make the jacket especially practical for driven hunting and other active field use.

Expedition WNTR 37.5 for severe cold

The women’s Merkel Gear Expedition WNTR 37.5 parka is designed for low temperatures and demanding winter conditions. Its 37.5 membrane has a stated 20,000 mm hydrostatic head and 20,000 g/m² breathability rating. It also uses 120 g/m² G-Loft synthetic insulation.

Merkel Gear hunting trousers

Abrasion resistance, freedom of movement, breathability and practical pocket placement are essential considerations when choosing hunting trousers. It is also important to distinguish between a waterproof garment and one that only has a water-repellent finish.

Ilex Pro for demanding terrain

The Merkel Gear Ilex Pro trousers combine 75% cotton with 25% Cordura nylon. The fabric balances abrasion resistance, comfort and breathability, making the trousers suitable for rough terrain in mild or warm conditions.

Double and triple stitching, quiet zips and articulated knee construction support active use. The DWR finish helps surface water bead and run off, but it does not replace a waterproof membrane.

HNTRS for warmer conditions

The men’s Merkel Gear HNTRS hunting trousers use a robust nylon and elastane fabric. They are lightweight, breathable and flexible, with five pockets and a PFC- and PFOA-free DWR finish.

HNTRS-Infinity for versatile field use

The men’s Merkel Gear HNTRS-Infinity hunting trousers combine durable polyamide with elastane. Their flexible fabric, DWR finish and six-pocket layout make them a versatile option for hunting, estate work and outdoor activities.

Women’s Merkel Gear hunting clothing

The collection includes hunting jackets, parkas, gilets, shirts and base layers specifically cut for women. The right choice depends on the activity, required weather protection and the layers that will be worn underneath.

The women’s Merkel Gear Paläarktis 365 gilet uses four-way stretch softshell, a fleece lining and an integrated 37.5 membrane. It provides wind resistance and has a water-repellent DWR finish, together with a chest pocket and two handwarmer pockets.

Base layers and merino clothing

The base layer helps manage moisture produced during physical activity. It is particularly important for stalking, climbing and hunting days that alternate between sustained movement and static periods.

The women’s Merkel Gear Merino 155 base layer is made from 75% wool and 25% 37.5 polyester. Its lightweight 140 g/m² fabric is designed to be worn next to the skin as part of a technical layering system.

Technologies used in Merkel Gear clothing

Technical properties vary between models. Always check the individual product specifications rather than assuming that one feature applies to the entire collection.

• WND-X: a membrane used in selected garments to provide wind protection and a highly water-repellent construction.
• 37.5 technology: used in different fabrics and membranes designed around breathability and moisture management.
• G-Loft: synthetic insulation used to retain warmth in cold-weather hunting clothing.
• DWR: a water-repellent surface treatment that does not, by itself, make a garment completely waterproof.
• Cordura: an abrasion-resistant material used in garments such as the Ilex Pro trousers.
• Merino wool: a material used in next-to-skin layers to support comfort and moisture management.

How to build a hunting layering system

A layered clothing system allows you to adjust your protection as the temperature and activity level change:

1. Base layer: technical or merino clothing that helps move moisture away from the skin.
2. Mid-layer: a fleece, jumper or gilet that provides additional insulation.
3. Outer layer: a hunting jacket selected according to rain, wind, vegetation and activity level.

During a demanding stalk, remove an insulating layer before excessive perspiration builds up. Before a prolonged static period, add insulation before the body begins to cool.

How to choose the correct size

Hunting clothing should allow you to walk, kneel, shoulder the rifle and carry a rucksack without restriction. However, excessive loose fabric can create additional noise or catch on branches and thorns.

• Measure the chest, waist, hips and inside leg without pulling the tape measure tight.
• Check the sizes available on the individual product page.
• Allow sufficient room for base and mid-layers when choosing a winter jacket.
• Make sure hunting trousers allow kneeling, bending and long strides without tension.
• Pay particular attention to shoulder and arm mobility when choosing a hunting jacket.

Caring for Merkel Gear hunting clothing

Always follow the care label on the individual garment. Waterproof membranes, DWR treatments, synthetic insulation and merino wool require different care methods.

• Remove mud and vegetation before storing the garments.
• Close zips, press studs and hook-and-loop fasteners before washing.
• Do not use fabric softener on technical membranes unless the care label expressly permits it.
• Wash merino garments using a suitable wool or delicate programme.
• Renew the DWR treatment only with a compatible product and according to the care instructions.
• Allow garments to dry fully before storing them in a dry, ventilated place.