Prior to this hunting season I purchased the WFS Upland Hunting Field Vest at my local Jax Outdoor Gear for $20. It’s available on Amazon for less than $30.
I knew that it would likely not be a winner when I purchased it. It was only available in size Large, and I’m generally a small Medium, especially in relaxed fits. However, I thought that it might fit better when worn over other layers, like a fleece mid-layer or my insulated parka. Ultimately, I returned it.
The WFS Upland Hunting Field Vest
Fabric
The WFS Upland Hunting Field Vest is made of tough ballistic nylon. No doubt, the fabric will withstand extensive abuse. It seems well made, but one review on Amazon suggests otherwise.
The fabric has very limited breathability, however, which may make it a poor choice in warmer conditions or doing aerobic activity if it fits snugly.
The ballistic nylon should withstand extensive abrasion and use. I cannot attest to its construction quality, however.
Design
The vest is primarily designed for bird hunting. It features four sets of shotgun shell holsters, each covered by a flap; two zippered front pockets; and connected load game bags in the front and back. I have found these game bags to be more useful for storing bulky items to which I want quick access, like overmitts, a beanie, and a two-way radio.
The vest is secured at the front with an easy-gliding #5 zipper. This is an improvement over the cheap acrylic vest that I have used in past seasons, which features fiddly hook-and-loop tabs.
The entire vest weighs 19.8 oz. In comparison, the simpler Yukon Gear Field Vest weighs 6.8 oz in size Medium, and the aforementioned Allen Company vest weighs just 2.0 oz.
Deep game load pockets in the front and back. They are also useful for binoculars, overmitts, and warm headwear.
Each side of the vest has two sets of shell holsters, each covered with a flap.
Verdict
In size Large, the WFS Upland Hunting Field Vest is a non-starter for me. While I appreciate its reasonable price and durable fabric, I wish it had a simpler and lighter build.
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You put this vest on your hunting gear list – have you managed to find one you like better at this point?
Not really. I went with a Cabela’s-branded upland field vest made of tough mesh that I found for 50% off at the local store. I can’t find it online.
With a pair of scissors and a sewing machine, I think I could modify it to my liking. But it’s disappointing that I can’t find something off-the-shelf that I like. In general, the quality of hunting clothing is terrible.
Have you tried Fortis Clothing? British cottage manufacturer, a bit fond of heavy rip-stop cottons, but pretty tough.
They do Hi-Vis Oranges, but you have to tease it out of them…