Hunting ducks from a blind is one of, and maybe the most common way to duck hunt. In this episode I am going to give you tips on how to get started.
Disclaimer: TideWe gave me these waders to do this review, and they have given me other gear. I earn from qualifying purchases using their links and code, thanks to them for their support.
When I first started duck hunting, I really wish that I could have found a set of breathable waders just like these; solid and durable with good boots and helpful features. These are the TideWe AquaWade Breathable Waders.
I think these are the least expensive breathable chest waders that TideWe makes, and they are one of the cheaper breathable waders on the market. When I took them out into the woods, I wanted to see:
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How do they stack up against more expensive waders?
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What is the quality like?
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How does the fit and comfort compare against the price point?
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Are these worth getting for new hunters or experienced hunters?
After hunting in these things, I must say that I am impressed. I am impressed with the quality, the construction, the fit, and the value.
TideWe also gave me this 18% off discount code. GK18, that you can use at checkout for the AquaWade Breathable Waders. This discount applies to most things on TideWe’s website and stacks on top of most sale prices.
Price and Build Quality
Right before writing this, I checked the price—with my 18% off discount code, these waders are about $156 before tax… for breathable waders. Not neoprene waders, not cheap vinyl waders, but good breathable waders. I think that is quite noteworthy.
So, what is the quality like? I think they are very good. The stitching, the seams, the boots, all of the features that these waders have, the comfort, and the mobility—all are very nice. Honestly, I’m not sure what I would get if I paid more money for some more expensive waders.
Yes, they do have zippable waders out there. The zipper is nice, but you pay extra money for it. If you’re thinking about non-zippable, breathable waders, these are really nice. I’ve done multiple hunts in them, covered some ground, pushed through brush, and they have not taken any noticeable damage or wear. I really think they’re a great pair of waders.
Check out my short video review to see more of them:
Performance, Fit, and Warmth
Now, one of the big questions is: Do they keep you dry?
Well, yes. They have kept me very dry, and I’m extremely happy with how these waders performed. They are completely waterproof.
Do they keep you warm? Not any more than any other breathable waders that I’ve used, but that’s not really what I’m going for. I like using breathable waders if I’ve got to cover some distance, if it’s warm outside, or if I just need something lighter weight that I can stuff into a backpack, carry with me, and have some versatility.
They do make another set of waders—the AquaWade Pro—which is insulated in the body and even more in the boots. This uninsulated version that I tested does have insulation in the boots, but the body is uninsulated. So, if you’re looking for something warmer, the Pro version is an option. But I personally would make do wearing more layers underneath the uninsulated one if it was colder out.
Overall, the fit on these is nice. The way they sit on me feels good when I’m standing, sitting, and walking. They have plenty of room, but not so much that I’ve felt the need to wear a wader belt.
Boot Comfort & Sizing
The boots on these have been really nice. When I first got them and put my feet in while standing in my living room, the top end of the boots seemed to pinch around my calves a little bit. I thought, “Well, I guess this is the price you pay for getting cheaper waders.”
However, a little bit into my first hunt, that completely went away. I have no problem with them whatsoever. Maybe they needed to be broken in a bit, or maybe after warming up to my body, they adjusted their shape. They are very comfortable now. I’ve worn these waders while dragging a sled with decoys and other gear through brush, and the boots have performed well.
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Sizing Note: I wear a size 11 boot in just about all my hunting boots. I got these in a size 11, and they fit me very nicely with enough room to wear a nice, big pair of wool socks.
I think the boots are nice and warm and come insulated with 1000 gsm of Thinsulate insulation. They also have good tread and good grip.
Key Features & Storage
These waders come with at least four pockets that I’ve found:
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Fleece-Lined Kangaroo Pocket: This one surprised me the most. It works good for keeping your hands warm, and the fleece lining has some grip—I’ve stuck my duck call in there and didn’t feel like it would slip out and get lost.
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Internal Flip-Out Zipper Pocket: Great for throwing your phone or small valuables into.
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External Velcro Pocket: Handy if you want to throw a few shells in.
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External Zipper Pocket: Adds even more storage options.
It probably has more pockets than I really need, but it’s nice to have options. I’ve also come to like the external shell loops on the front. I didn’t plan on using them, but I found myself sticking shells in there, and it’s very convenient.
Additionally, the waders come with a belt, extra shell loops, and a patch kit.
Durable Construction & Suspender Comfort
They feature reinforced shins and a reinforced seat, which are high-wear areas that I very much appreciate. The legs have mesh drains so water can easily escape from between the reinforced layer and the waterproof material.
I also really like the elasticity in the suspenders. They’re nice and wide and feel very comfortable. There’s plenty of room in these—I could easily wear multiple layers underneath if I wanted to, and they still feel good and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think the AquaWade Breathable Waders are some of the best breathable waders I could hope for, for the price. You’re getting really nice quality for the money, and I would absolutely recommend them to both new hunters and experienced hunters.
I wish I would have found these when I was new to waterfowl hunting, they would have been some great first waders. But really, I also wouldn’t hesitate to buy them now for myself if I needed more waders or as a gift to someone else. Nothing about them limits them to new hunters. They are just a really good value in my opinion.
Be sure to listen to The New Hunters Guide Podcast and check us out on YouTube.
Till next time. God bless you, and go get em in the woods!
George Konetes Ph.D. – Founder and Host of the New Hunters Guide.
The New Hunters Guide is simply what George wishes he would have had when learning how to hunt; a single place to get practical hands on knowledge about different kinds of hunting, gear, strategy, and tips that can improve your comfort and fun factor in the woods.
As a note, TideWe gave me these waders to do this review, thanks to them for their support.
This article was sponsored by TideWe.
The right clothing can turn a cold, demanding trip into a comfortable adventure you never want to end. The wrong clothing can end that same trip early, with numb fingers and a long, miserable walk back. Whether you are hiking a frosty ridge, camping in the backcountry, or watching wildlife at dawn, what you wear matters more than almost any other gear choice. This guide breaks down exactly how to dress for cold weather in the wild, layer by layer.
Summary
This guide explains how to dress for a cold weather wilderness trip the smart way. You will learn the three layer system, why quiet and comfortable fabrics matter, and how to choose versatile outdoor clothing. It also covers protecting your hands, feet, and head, plus simple packing tips. A short FAQ at the end answers the questions most travelers ask.
Why the Right Clothing Makes or Breaks a Trip
Out in the wild, weather is unpredictable and help can be far away. Your clothing is your first line of defense against cold, wind, and rain. Stay dry and warm, and you can focus on the adventure itself. Get cold and wet, and even a short outing becomes a test of endurance.
Good clothing also lets you stay out longer and go farther. Comfort keeps your mind sharp and your body moving. That is why experienced adventurers treat their clothing as core safety gear, not an afterthought.
Master the Layering System
The secret to cold weather comfort is not one heavy coat. It is a system of layers you can add or remove as conditions change. Each layer has a job, and together they keep you dry and warm across a wide range of weather. Here is how the three layers work.
The Base Layer
Your base layer sits against your skin and manages moisture. Choose merino wool or a synthetic fabric that pulls sweat away and dries quickly. Never wear cotton here, since it traps moisture and chills you fast. A good base layer keeps you dry, and dry is what keeps you warm.
The Mid Layer
The mid layer traps your body heat and keeps you insulated. Fleece and light puffy jackets are popular choices that pack down small. You can add or remove this layer as your effort and the temperature change. This flexibility is what makes the system so effective.
The Outer Shell
Your outer shell blocks wind and rain while letting sweat escape. Look for a waterproof and breathable jacket and pants with sealed seams. This layer protects everything underneath it from the elements. A quality shell is worth the investment for any serious trip.
A complete outer layer set built to block wind and rain while staying quiet in the field.
Dress Quiet for Wildlife and Close Encounters
If your adventure includes watching or photographing wildlife, quiet clothing becomes a real advantage. Many outdoor fabrics rustle loudly with every movement, which sends animals running. Soft, brushed materials let you move silently and stay unnoticed. This is one area where hunters have solved a problem the rest of us can borrow.
A set of quiet hunting clothes made from ultra silent fabric lets you move without a sound while staying warm and dry. The muted camo pattern also helps you blend into your surroundings. For anyone hoping to get close to animals, that silence and concealment make a huge difference.
Quiet, camouflaged clothing helps you stay hidden and comfortable during long, still waits.
Choose Versatile Outdoor Clothing
The best outdoor clothing works across many activities and seasons. Look for durable fabric, a comfortable fit, and features like zippered pockets and adjustable cuffs. Muted, natural colors blend into the landscape and never look out of place. Buying versatile pieces saves money and space over time.
Many adventurers discover that hunting clothes double as excellent all around outdoor apparel. They are built to handle harsh weather, rough terrain, and long days outside. That toughness makes them a smart choice for hiking, camping, and wildlife trips too.
Do Not Forget Your Extremities
Your hands, feet, and head lose heat quickly, so protect them well. Pack insulated, waterproof gloves and warm wool socks, and bring spare pairs. A snug hat or beanie makes a surprising difference in overall warmth. A neck gaiter adds easy protection for your face and neck in biting wind.
Footwear deserves special care on any cold weather trip. Choose waterproof, insulated boots and break them in before you go. Comfortable, dry feet keep you moving happily all day long.
Packing Tips for Cold Weather Trips
Pack for the coldest and wettest weather you might realistically face. Always bring one extra warm layer and a spare set of dry base layers. Stuff clothing into waterproof bags so it stays dry even if your pack gets wet. Rolling your clothes saves space and helps prevent deep wrinkles. A little planning here keeps you comfortable no matter what the sky does.
Conclusion
Dressing well for the wild is a skill that pays off on every single trip. Build around the three layer system, keep your fabrics dry and quiet, and protect your hands, feet, and head. Choose versatile, durable pieces that work across your favorite activities. Do that, and you will stay warm, comfortable, and free to enjoy the adventure, whatever the weather brings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear as a base layer in cold weather?
Choose merino wool or a synthetic fabric that wicks moisture and dries fast. Avoid cotton, since it holds sweat and makes you cold. A good base layer is the foundation of staying warm.
Why does quiet clothing matter outdoors?
Quiet fabric lets you move without startling nearby wildlife. This is a big help for photographers and anyone who wants to observe animals closely. Soft, brushed materials make far less noise than stiff synthetics.
Can hunting clothes be used for regular outdoor trips?
Yes, hunting apparel is built for tough weather and rugged terrain. That makes it great for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching too. The muted colors also blend nicely into natural settings.
How many layers do I really need?
The three layer system of base, mid, and shell covers most conditions. You add or remove layers as the weather and your effort change. In very cold weather, a thicker mid layer gives you extra warmth.
How do I keep my clothing dry in the backcountry?
Pack spare layers inside waterproof bags within your pack. A breathable shell keeps rain out while letting sweat escape. Always carry one dry base layer set for emergencies.
This article and its images were written and provided by the great folks at TideWe.
Are you overhunting your deer spots or underutilizing your assets? Listen to this episode for more.
Do see through hunting blinds really work and are they worth it for deer hunting? On this episode I share my experience. Enter this 18% off discount code at checkout: GK18 and find the TideWe See Through Hunting Blind here: https://tidd.ly/4vZyuoI
Thank you to TideWe for providing the discount code and this affiliate link, if you use them, I earn a small commission that helps support the channel. TideWe has also kindly given me gear in the past. Here is my video review as well: https://youtu.be/QCFeoGzjKJ0
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