I would recommend the Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 Bib for those who do not want to read through the entire review. It is not that expensive and has most of the features covered. It also has an extensive range of camo patterns to choose from.
In this review, I will reveal 6 of the best insulated hunting bibs you can wear for the next outing you have for hunting.
I have vetted over 24 different hunting bibs for this review and could only find 6, which met my selection criteria. I have worn a bib once in the past and also reached out to other hunters for their take.
If you know what to look for, then choosing the best bib for your needs does not need to be hard. I also have a buying guide after the products, which explores some features like waterproofing, insulation, camo patterns, scent suppression, sizes, and a lot more.
Best Insulated Hunting Bibs
- Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 Bib (Best Overall)
- FROGG TOGGS Classic Pro Action Bib (Least Expensive)
- Legendary Whitetails HuntGuard Bibs (Best For Keeping You Warm)
- Nomad Men’s Harvester Bib (Best For Scent Protection)
- Wildfowler Waterproof Bibs (Best Waterproof Bibs For Waterfowl Hunting)
- SITKA Stratus Bib (Best In Wind Protection And Silence)
Let’s start with the first hunting bib:
#1 Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 Bib (Best Overall)
- Camo available: Bottomland, Break-up Country, Greenleaf, Obsession, Bottomland, and Treestand.
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large.
Mossy Oak is a very well established hunting clothes manufacturer and has several lines under its name. The Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 is also made out of a blend of different materials that compliment each other.
The list includes Cotton (58%), Polyester (39%), and Spandex (3%). Cotton is a very soft material and is also breathable. It is not very strong, which is why it is combined with Polyester. Polyester is added to provide some durability to the material, which is also waterproof. By adding Spandex, you increase the flexibility of the material.
The shoulder straps are also adjustable so that the bib will fit you better. The waistband is also partially elastic so that it does not put too much pressure on your waist. The sizing will also be more flexible.
The bib also has a zippered fly, so you do not need to take the bib off to relieve yourself. It can be a hassle to put the bib on, so this is a great feature.
The knee section is also double layered. This feature makes it easier to crawl through the woods or get a better shot, requiring kneeling. This product also has three pockets. One on the chest and one on each side.
#2 FROGG TOGGS Classic Pro Action Bib (Least Expensive)
- Camo available: Black, Realtree Edge, and Realtree Timber.
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large.
Frogg Toggs is very well known for their waterproof products. Their material is made from three nonwoven layers. The outer layer is made from Polypropylene, which makes the material durable and waterproof.
The mid-layer is made from Dripore Microporous Film, which prevents any water droplets from passing through. It also helps with breathability.
The inner layer is also made from Polypropylene for added durability and waterproofing. It is easy to conclude how this material can keep you dry and prevent you from sweating too much.
The zippered front opening makes it straightforward to take it off. Just zip it open, take your arms out from underneath the shoulder straps and then pull it down through your legs.
With the adjustable shoulder straps’ help, you can adjust each strap’s length to make sure it fits you perfectly.
The end of each leg opening is also adjustable with velcro (hook and loop) material. It is beneficial if you want to prevent bugs and water from entering the bib from beneath.
There was only one drawback that I came across. The product might have a very “ cheap” plastic feel to it because of the Polypropylene material. I know that for some people, this might be a big issue. There are also no pockets visible on the product.
#3 Legendary Whitetails HuntGuard Bibs (Best For Keeping You Warm)
- Camo available: Big Game 360
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large.
If you get cold very quickly, then these Huntguard Bibs from Legendary Whitetails will keep you warm. This bib has two layers, which include the inner and outer layers.
The outer layer is made from a combination of Polyester and Polyurethane. The inner layer is made of Nylon and Polyester. This combination of materials gives it many properties, which include insulation, durability, and waterproofing. It will keep you warm and dry so you can fully experience the hunt.
The Huntguard integrated padding is inserted in specific strategic areas to help keep you comfortable for longer.
The leg zippers are on the outside and go up until it reaches the waist area. You can always open them up when your legs get very hot. They are also very helpful for putting the bib on.
The adjustable straps give this bib a universal fit. You can always loosen the straps if they are too tight around the shoulders. There is also a zipper located on the chest area, which makes it easier to remove.
You also have several pockets located on the chest, sides, the back, and above the knees.
#4 Nomad Men’s Harvester Bib (Best For Scent Protection)
- Camo available: Blaze orange, Bottomland, and Break Up Country.
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large.
If you want to make your hunting experience more efficient by preventing the animals from detecting your scent, then this bib from Nomad is for you. It makes use of the Silver Z Scent Suppression system which uses silver to combat any odor-producing microbes.
This bib is also made from polyester, which is very durable and will keep you warm. It also has an adjustable waistband, which makes the bib more comfortable to wear. You also get adjustable shoulder straps, which are helpful to relieve pressure around your shoulder areas.
The seat and knee areas are also double layers, which give you more support. It is beneficial if you tend to crawl around on your knees or sit on a hard object.
There is also a zipper on each leg’s side, which enables you to open this area. This feature is helpful if you want to cool down a bit.
You also can make use of the many pockets available. You have a pocket on each side below your waist and even two cargo pockets on the side above your knees. There is also a chest pocket and two pockets at the back.
The kangaroo pocket is also located on the inside, which is helpful to store precious items.
#5 Wildfowler Waterproof Bibs (Best Waterproof Bibs For Waterfowl Hunting)
- Camo available: Wildgrass and Wildtree Snow
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large.
If you hate feeling wet while hunting, then these bibs from Wildfowler is for you. These bibs are also ideal for hunting waterfowl. What makes these bibs so efficient at keeping the water outside is because of its 3-layer membrane.
It has an outer layer that does most of the work at keeping you dry. It has good moisture-wicking abilities, which help it dry quickly, and it also draws moisture to the outside. The middle layer makes this bib breathable and helps draw the moisture from your sweat to the outside layer. The inner mesh lining makes this bib even more breathable and comfortable.
This bib is also reinforced at the right areas, which include the seat and knees. This feature helps you to stand on your knees for longer and also to crouch.
You can also open this bib easily with the front zipper’s help located on the chest area. The zipper is also protected by storm flaps which prevent any moisture from seeping through.
It only has two pairs of pockets on each side for you to put stuff in. One minor criticism of these pants is that it does not have that many pockets to use.
The shoulder straps are also adjustable, making it easier to adjust the height of the bibs and the pressure around your shoulder areas. You can also bend to the sides more easily with the help of the elastic side panels.
#6 SITKA Stratus Bib (Best In Wind Protection And Silence)
- Camo available: Optivade Elevated II
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large.
If wearing bibs will form a large part of your hunting experience and you want the best possible one, then I would recommend this bib from Sitka Gear. It is also the most expensive bib on this list, which is why I put it last.
The Gore-Tex Windstopper says it all. This layer is set in the middle and is best suited for preventing wind from blowing through it.
It has a microfleece shell on the outside, which gives it a very smooth texture and allows it to be breathable. It also has a micro-grid fleece interior, which provides for the bib to adapt to fluctuating temperatures.
This bib also has adjustable shoulder straps that do not make use of buckles. The buckles might hurt your shoulders as it puts unnecessary pressure on it. This way, the bib will fit more comfortably while being more flexible.
The side zippers are also located on the outside of each leg. These zippers are handy at allowing hot air to escape to the outside. This will allow you to cool down.
Some nice cargo pockets on the side will not make any noise when being used. It also has two deep pockets on the side. Now you can store your gear without having to scare away the animals.
It also has a water repellent finish on the outside layer, preventing water from moving through the fabric.
The only con that I could think of was that this bib is very expensive. There are less expensive options available in this list that might also serve the purpose.
What To Look For In Hunting Bibs
In this section, I will show you what to look for when choosing hunting bibs. You need a bib that can provide insulation, waterproofing, durability, comfort, breathability, and other essential factors, which will be discussed in the next couple of sections.
Adapted For Cold Weather & Insulation
Who wants to freeze to death while hunting? Not me. The two most common factors which will determine whether a bib will keep you warm is the material used and the number of layers.
If keeping warm is a priority, I suggest reading this article on base layers, adding an extra layer of warmth.
Polyester is the most common material used in the fabric of the bibs listed in this review. This material is a good insulator that will keep the heat inside. It is also waterproof and windproof, which also helps at keeping you warm.
The best bib for keeping you warm is going to be the Legendary Whitetails HuntGuard Bibs.
It Should Be Waterproof
There are two properties that you need to look for when choosing waterproof clothes. They include waterproof materials and moisture-wicking. Some of the materials that fall into this category are the following:
- Polyester
- Polypropylene
Most fabrics made from polyester are woven very tightly to the extend where water droplets cannot travel through the fabric. The strands also do not absorb any water as it is hydrophobic.
If you want to buy pants instead of a bib, I recommend this article on the best waterproof hunting pants.
Polyester is also a material that can be easily coated with a sealant. Polypropylene (also called plastic) is a non woven fabric that prevents water from passing through. The best results can be found by adding several layers to the bib, which can also contribute to it being waterproof.
These materials also have moisture-wicking properties that help moisture travel to the outside, where the wind can remove it from the outer layer. There are two bibs that excel at being waterproof and include the FROGG TOGGS Classic Pro Action Bib and the Wildfowler Waterproof Bibs.
Type Of Camo Pattern Used
The terrain you will be hunting in will determine the type of camo that you will use. Below is a list of the most common types of camos used in the bibs listed above.
- Bottomland: This type is best used in treestands or on the floor when hunting along a river where trees are present.
- Break-up Country: This camo is very versatile and can almost be used in any natural environment between trees and brush.
- Realtree Edge: This is an excellent camo that is best suited for bowhunters who want to hunt up close.
- Realtree Timber: If you love waterfowl hunting in areas with flooded timber, then this is your go-to pattern.
- Big Game 360: This type is also very versatile and is best used in late winter or the beginning of autumn.
- Blaze orange: No actually a pattern and consists only of one color, which is very bright orange. You can read more on blaze orange vests if you want to learn more about this color.
- Wildgrass: This pattern is best used for waterfowl/duck hunting near rivers or lakes with reeds and long grass present.
- Optivade Elevated II: This pattern works wonders for treestand hunting, where you will remain undetected.
Does It Have Scent Control?
Having some type of scent control in any hunting apparel is not always necessary but can be useful when hunting at close range. The most common cause of scent being detected by animals is odor-producing microbes.
If you can control microbes’ growth on your skin or clothes, you will put the breaks on the scent from reaching animals. Deer have a very keen sense of smell and will detect your scent even before they will hear you approaching.
If you are serious about scent control, I recommend the Nomad Men’s Harvester Bib, which uses silver as a natural inti microbial.
Enhanced Durability
You do not want your bib to tear or for the seams to loosen up the first time you use it, which is why the materials used in making bibs are essential.
Polyester and nylon are the two most common types of materials used in manufacturing bibs. They are also very durable and robust. Sometimes you will also have a combination of materials that comprises the fabric.
These combinations will include polyester, nylon, elastane (spandex), and even cotton. Nylon is about the strongest material on this list, while polyester should not be excluded. By combining nylon or polyester into the material, you will increase the bib’s lifespan and durability for years to come.
Comfort And Flexibility
Some hunting expeditions can last for several hours, if not days, which is why you want to make sure your bib will fit comfortably. Two features make this possible, and they include the adjustable waistband and shoulder straps.
Most of the weight on the bib will be on your shoulders, so the straps need to be adjustable and comfortable. You also do not want the bib to be too tight around your waist, which is why an adjustable/flexible waistband is desired.
Some bibs also have a padded seat and knees, making it easier to crawl or sit on a hard object.
Should Be Breathable
Breathability is essential in circulating hot air in and around your bib. Your body will continuously produce heat, which needs to be able to escape your body. The most common medium of heat transport is through the air.
Material such as nylon and polyester allows for breathability and prevents you from overheating. Other features such as zippers on the legs are also useful in allowing hot air from around your legs to escape.
Most bibs in this list have this feature, which was why I chose them.
Sizing Options Available
The sizing options fall in the range of Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3X-Large, 4X-Large. One of the most common complaints that I came across while researching the products was that of sizing.
Most customers complained that the bibs sat too tight around the body. This problem can quickly be resolved by choosing one size larger than that of your usual size.
The Bibs Need To Be Silent
We can all acknowledge that detection should be limited as far as your skill and budget should allow. You do not want the material to make a swish sound when you move. You also do not want to be heard when you use the zipper or put something into your pocket.
If being silent is a priority, then I would recommend the SITKA Stratus Bib. This bib has features that make it very quiet.
Pockets For Gear
I made sure that all of the Bibs had pockets. Some bibs will have more pockets than others, and the pockets can be located next to your hip area, above your knees, chest area, and your seat.
FAQ
Q: What are hunting bibs?
Hunting bibs are an extra layer of clothing that you put over your regular hunting clothes. It stretches from your chest area down to your feet. It covers almost your entire body, except for your arms and head. It uses shoulder straps to keep it on your body.
Q: Why should you wear a hunting bib?
This type of clothing provides an added layer of warmth for your legs, middle and chest area. It does not cover your arms, which is why you need an additional jacket for that too. If you have a pair of cozy non-hunting pants that you like, you can also pull the bib over it.
Sometimes bibs will also add an extra layer of waterproofing, which prevents your legs from getting wet.
Q: What to wear under the bibs?
Regarding pants, you can also wear almost anything underneath the bibs. You can even wear sweatpants if you want to. I know that some people like only to wear base layer pants under the bib if it is not too cold.
You need to wear something that fits your bibs’ color or camo pattern for your upper body. Here, I have curated a list of very cozy hunting jackets. Depending on the weather, you can also go with only a base layer.
Q: What’s the difference between Bibs vs. Hunting Coveralls?
In short, coveralls are a one-piece type of clothing that covers both your lower and upper body, while the bibs cover only your legs and part of your upper body.
Q: What’s the difference between Hunting Bibs vs. Pants?
Hunting pants only cover your lower body, while hunting bibs covers your lower body and part of your upper body (such as your chest). A hunting bib also has shoulder straps that are used to keep the bibs in place.
Final Verdict
There are many problems that you need to avoid when choosing a hunting bib. It might include bibs that are too thin, which will not keep you warm. Some bibs are also made from a weak material that also does not provide any ventilation.
I have chosen the Mossy Oak Cotton Mill 2.0 Bib because it addresses these issues. It is made from three different materials: cotton, polyester, and spandex, which solves all of these issues.
Now it is up to you. What was your favorite bib, and why?
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