Off-Season Prep: What Hunting Gear to Break In Now (and What’s Ready Out of the Box)

With summer winding down and a whiff of fall in the air, right now is the perfect time to evaluate your gear, dial in your system, and get set up for success on opening day and beyond. If you’ve spent the off-season snapping up hunting gear at great prices, this may be your first opportunity to test new purchases in the real world — and we have your action plan. 

Not everything needs months of use to perform well in the field, but some pieces definitely do. Here’s a quick guide to what gear you should start breaking in now, and what you can count on to be hunt-ready on day one.

Start Breaking In

Boots

Your boots are one of the most important items to break in before hunting season. New boots need time to mold to your feet, soften in key places, and reveal any hot spots. Wear them with the socks you plan to use for hunting, and put them through their paces on hikes, around the yard, or while scouting so they’re trail-tested by the time you’re ready to punch your tag.

Backpacks

A new pack may feel comfortable at first, but load it up and walk a few miles and you’ll quickly find out what adjustments or reinforcements are needed. Use the off-season to carry weights, test different strap settings, and get used to pockets and access points until you can reach what you need quickly and quietly.

Bolts and Bows

If you’re using a new firearm or bow this season, you’ll want to invest the bulk of your time in the off-season in front of a target. For rifle hunting, build your confidence and muscle memory by starting at the bench and then moving through realistic shooting positions, like prone, kneeling, and supported off a pack. Practice shouldering your rifle, acquiring targets quickly, and working the bolt smoothly in three-shot groups. 

Upland and waterfowl hunters: Practice mounting the shotgun and aligning your eye with the rib consistently and all in one smooth motion. Sporting clays or skeet simulate field scenarios, where you should focus on smooth swings and follow-through. Also practice reloading quickly and safely.

Ahead of bow season, your goal is to build consistent shooting form, accuracy under pressure, and ethical range judgment. Many women need to work up to an appropriate draw weight for deer and other big game, so don’t wait until the week before the season opener to start hitting targets. Wear the same apparel you’re going to hunt in and, if possible, practice from elevated positions as well as kneeling or seated. You can simulate the pressure of a real hunting scenario by using a timer and shooting after physical exertion, like pushups, jumping jacks, or a quick climb uphill. 

Hunt-Ready Right Now

Fortunately, there’s no breaking in required when it comes to most of your apparel. You may want to test certain pieces in real-world situations — like to see if there’s enough ease in the shoulders to get to full draw or if you can comfortably get into shooting position without restrictions — but these tried-and-tested pieces from the Isle Royale Outfitters hunting collection are ready to go with you on all your adventures right out of the box.

The Featherweight Jacket

A breathable, water-resistant hooded shell that protects and performs in the field. Our rainproof softshell jacket is designed to be quiet, flexible, and field-ready on day one. Just pack it and go.

The Trail Leggings

Modern camo pocket leggings with a flattering fit and second-skin feel. Built for stealth and mobility, our camo leggings move with you from the very first wear. No stiff seams, no weird pinch points — just ultra-comfortable performance that stands up to whatever you get into.

The Essential Long-Sleeve

A lightweight, buttery-soft, under-anything base layer made with eco-friendly and naturally antibacterial bamboo. It’s breathable, temperature-regulating, and soft enough to sleep in — no washing or wear-in required. Whether you’re hiking, scouting, or hanging trail cams, this layer keeps you dry and comfortable in any condition.

Want to be ready before the first frost hits? Check out our full lineup of ready-to-hunt apparel now.