Best Quail Hunting Pants: Top 5 Upland Picks for 2024
A covey bursts from the thicket, your dog locked on point. As you pivot for the shot, your pants don’t snag or restrict. In that crucial moment, you realize: great quail hunting pants are more than just clothing – they’re essential gear.
Hey there, fellow upland enthusiasts! Whether you’re a seasoned quail hunter or just getting started in the upland game, you know that success in the field starts with the right gear. And while we often focus on shotguns, dogs, and boots, let’s not forget an unsung hero of the hunt: your pants.
Quail hunting isn’t a walk in the park. It’s a trek through briars, brambles, and thick brush. It’s long days of crouching, climbing, and traversing varied terrain. Your hunting pants need to keep up with every step, protecting you from thorns and burrs while allowing the freedom of movement to make that perfect shot.
What Makes Great Quail Hunting Pants?
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s break down the key features that set quality upland hunting pants apart:
- Durability: Ability to withstand thorns, briars, and rough terrain without tearing.
- Mobility: Flexible fabric and cut that allows for easy movement.
- Comfort: Soft inner lining and breathable materials for all-day wear.
- Water Resistance: Light water repellency for dewy mornings and light rain.
- Noise Reduction: Quiet fabrics that won’t spook game.
- Visibility: Options for both camouflage and blaze orange patches for safety.
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Quail Hunting Pants
SITKA Gear Mountain Pant
The Mountain Pants are the ultimate quail hunting companion, designed to tackle the toughest terrain and weather conditions.
Features:
- Four-way stretch woven polyester for maximum mobility
- Contoured fit in the seat for comfort and movement
- Tapered legs to reduce friction and noise against boots
- Articulated knees with removable knee pads for protection
- Two zippered hand pockets, one hip pocket, and two cargo pockets with quiet snaps
- Quick-drying fabric with DWR finish for water repellency
- Tall waistline for better fit and reduced hotspots when wearing a heavy pack
- Available in Open Country and Subalpine colors
- Made by SITKA Gear, known for high-quality, performance-driven apparel
First Lite Men’s Sawbuck Brush Soft Shell Pant
Conquer the toughest upland terrain with these rugged, versatile hunting pants designed for the serious quail hunter.
Features:
- 4-way stretch fabric for unrestricted movement
- Durable construction withstands thick brush and briars
- DWR treatment repels morning dew and light showers
- Articulated fit with wide legs accommodates bulky boots
- Athletic fit for active hunting
- 100% Nylon material for longevity
- Two front pockets with knife clips
- Two back pockets for additional storage
- Triple needle seams for extra durability
- Weighs only 19.4 oz for all-day comfort
- Ideal for hunting, upland pursuits, and spot & stalk tactics
CQR Men’s Tactical Pants
Experience military-grade comfort and functionality with CQR Men’s Tactical Pants, designed for the demands of law enforcement, military, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Features:
- Blend of Polyester & Cotton Ripstop Fabric for breathability and comfort
- Wrinkle-free design for a professional appearance
- Duratax Ripstop Fabric offers superior durability
- Water-resistant and stain-resistant properties
- Elastic waistband on sides for secure fit
- Multi-purpose cargo pockets for carrying tools
- Suitable for military, and outdoor activities
- Note: Tactical Belt is not included with the pants
- Designed to support active movement
- Provides a tactical layout for optimal gear organization
ATG by Wrangler Men’s Upland Pant
Conquer the outdoors with these versatile and durable pants designed for the active hunter and outdoor enthusiast.
Features:
- Water repellent finish protects against stream crossings
- Stretch fabric and soft waistband for maximum comfort
- Reinforced leg panels and watch pocket for durability
- Multiple pockets provide convenient storage for essentials
- Denim construction reinforced with twill
- Front panels extend from mid-thigh to hem added
- Back panels extend from knee to hem for increased durability
- Designed to withstand repeated wear and washing
- Ideal for hiking, hunting, and facing inclement weather
- Allows for easy bending, squatting, and active movement
Gamehide Briar-Proof Upland Hunting Chap
Gamehide Briar-Proof Upland Hunting Chaps offer superior protection for quail hunters tackling tough terrain.
Features:
- Designed specifically for upland hunting in briar-filled environments
- Made with heavy-duty, briar-proof fabric to protect legs
- Full-length coverage from thigh to ankle
- Adjustable waist belt for a secure and comfortable fit
- Easy on/off design with quick-release buckles
- Features a water-resistant finish to handle dewy mornings
- Lightweight construction for all-day comfort
- Compatible with most hunting pants and boots
- Available in classic hunting colors for blend-in visibility
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Ideal for quail, pheasant, and other upland game hunting
Choosing the Right Quail Hunting Pants
Now that we’ve covered our top picks, let’s talk about how to choose the right pants for your hunting style:
- Consider your hunting environment: Dense brush requires tougher fabrics, while open fields allow lighter options.
- Think about the weather: Insulated pants are for cold weather, and breathable options are for warmer hunts.
- Prioritize your needs: Durability, mobility, storage, or weather protection – what’s most important to you?
- Don’t forget fit: Ensure you can comfortably wear base layers underneath if needed.
Caring for Your Quail Hunting Pants
To get the most out of your investment, follow these care tips:
- Read the label: Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
- Clean after each hunt: Brush off burrs and dirt, and spot clean as needed.
- Wash with care: Use gentle detergents and avoid fabric softeners, which can affect water-repellent treatments.
- Reapply DWR: Periodically reapply water-repellent treatments to maintain effectiveness.
- Proper storage: Hang your pants in a cool, dry place between hunts.
Real Hunter Experiences
Let’s hear from some fellow quail hunters about their experiences:
Tom, 15-year hunting veteran: “I’ve been using the BriarBuster Pro for three seasons now, and they’re the best quail hunting pants I’ve ever owned. They shrug off thorns like they’re nothing, and I love how quiet they are when moving through the brush. The only downside is they can get a bit warm on those early season hunts, but that’s a small price to pay for the protection they offer.”
Sarah, a newcomer to upland hunting: “As a beginner, I went with the FieldWalker Basic pants. They’ve been great for learning the ropes without breaking the bank. They’re comfortable and have held up well, though I’m already eyeing the AirFlex Upland for those warmer days. The extra breathability sounds amazing!”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I wear my quail hunting pants for other types of hunting?
A: Absolutely! These pants are versatile and can be used for upland hunting and outdoor activities.
Q: How often should I replace my hunting pants?
A: With proper care, quality hunting pants can last several seasons. Replace them when you notice significant wear, tears, or loss of water repellency that can’t be restored.
Q: Are chaps necessary for quail hunting?
A: While not always necessary, chaps like the Gamehide Briar-Proof Upland Hunting Chaps can provide extra protection in extremely thorny areas, helping to extend the life of your pants.
Conclusion
Choosing the right quail hunting pants is an important decision that can greatly impact your comfort and success in the field. Don’t be afraid to invest in quality gear – your legs will thank you after pushing through thick cover all day. And remember, even the best pants need proper care to perform at their peak season after season.
We’d love to hear about your experiences! Drop a comment below and let us know which quail hunting pants have served you well, or if you have any questions about choosing the right pair for your next hunt.
Happy hunting, and may your pants keep you protected and comfortable through many successful quail seasons to come!
