As a self-proclaimed gear (and clothing) nut, I have really been wanting to get my hands on some KUIU threads. I’ve followed KUIU’s journey since the beginning, and I love what they’re doing both from a business standpoint and for hunting clothing innovation. But, as a traditional farm country whitetail hunter, I didn’t have much need for technical mountain apparel. However, my hunting style has significantly evolved over the last five-plus years, and more often than not, I find myself hunting the rugged big-woods of northern Pennsylvania – an experience worthy of high-quality, technical apparel.
As a result, I’ve been researching, buying, selling, and collecting a variety of lightweight, technical apparel from a host of the top names in both hunting and outdoor recreation apparel. I was eager to get my hands on the KUIU Attack Pant. My hunting partner has a pair, and he consistently raves about how comfortable and versatile they are. While I trust his evaluation of gear, I wanted to find out for myself. I put these pants through the paces this spring looking for shed antlers, hunting turkeys and summer scouting for the upcoming whitetail season. I came to two significant conclusions. Would I recommend these pants to someone looking for all-purpose, all-season pants? Yes, I would. Will I be grabbing another pair if I miraculously wear through these ones? You bet! Now, let’s dive into the details.
KUIU Attack Pant Review
Made for the mountains, these are known for their combination of comfort, durability, and simplicity. KUIU’s best-selling and most versatile pant, ideal for use on hunts where a wide temperature range can be expected. The pant to own if you only own one.
Price: $139.00
• 18.5 oz
• Hip vents for added ventilation
• 4-way stretch
• Kudos DWR for water repellency
Extremely Comfortable Hunting Pants
KUIU touts the Attack pant for their “combination of comfort, durability, and simplicity.” After a season spent in these trousers, I wholeheartedly concur that they are incredibly comfortable. I don’t doubt that comfort alone makes the Attack KUIU’s best-selling pants. The pants are constructed with Toray’s Primeflex fabric, which I’ve found to be incredibly soft and quiet. It also provides for a pant the doesn’t restrict movement when scrambling over boulders or jumping over creeks. They’re so comfortable that I’ve contemplated wearing them to lounge around the house.
Versatile Hunting Pants for a Variety of Conditions
While I would consider the pants lightweight, I mean that purely in terms of ounces. By no means should these pants be regarded as an early-season-only pant or as a lightweight in terms of durability. Instead, I’ve worn these pants without a layer underneath from temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to the mid-70s. They were plenty warm on those chilly mornings in the turkey woods, and they wicked moisture incredibly well during my earlier summer scouting sessions. Other ‘technical’ pants I’ve owned have felt more like rain paints in warmer weather – not the Attack pants. Speaking of rain, the DWR coating on the Attack pants seems to be top-notch. I haven’t worn them in a steady rain, but they’ve held up great to misting skies and dewy fields.
Hip Vents Are Like a Thermostat for Your Pants!
Actually, I attribute the impressive warm-weather performance of the Attack pant to a feature I didn’t expect to care a whole lot about. These pants have zippered hip vents that extend from the upper thigh to just above the knee. When unzipped, the vent exposes some stitched-in mesh, which allows heat and moisture to escape, while still providing protection from biting insects like mosquitoes and flies. I distinctly remember the first time I utilized the hip vents. I was nearing the top of a mountain to get into position on a gobbling Tom. It was mid-morning, and the rising sun and dewy grass made for a muggy hike. I remembered the hip vent feature, and as soon as I unzipped them, it felt like I had turned on an AC unit. The amount of heat that the vents allow to escape is incredible, and the mesh provides in a fresh breeze to keep sensitive areas cool.
Tough & Durable- Built for the Mountain
While I will really put the durability of the Attack pant to test this fall while chasing whitetails in the mountains, I already suspect I’ll be unable to damage them in any significant way. My treks into the timber so far have not left a single mark, other than mud, on these pants. While carrying a heavy pack full of trail cameras, steel security boxes and locks, one of the knees snagged on a large log I had to step over. I thought for sure that the material would show some signs of wear or stretching from the sharp protrusion, but no such signs exist. Further, the stitching on the pants is flawless, so I don’t foresee any issue with separating seems or pulling threads.
Pocket Improvement Potential
These pants sound too good to be true, don’t they? Well, you should believe the hype, but there are a few minor modifications that I’d like to see on a future model. The layout of the pockets is excellent; the pants have two open hand pockets, two zippered cargo pockets, and two zippered seat pockets. However, the hand pockets are difficult to get into when seated, so keep that in mind when you’re deciding what necessities to place in which pocket. Alternatively, the cargo pockets are slightly tricky to unzipper while standing, but they’re easily accessed while sitting. Finally, I found the seat pockets to be somewhat small to accommodate my wallet or to get my hand into. And trust me, it’s not because my wallet is stuffed with cash.
KUIU Attack Pant Sizing and Fit
The fit of the Attack pant is excellent. I would consider it athletic, but not fitted. I generally wear a 34 or 36-inch waist, and the size 36 waist in the Attack pant is perfect for me. The pants provide plenty of room in the thighs, but the legs narrow nicely towards the opening. I’ve found that they lay neatly over boots, and there’s no excess fabric below the knee to brush against the other leg or get snagged on foliage.
KUIU Attack Pant Review Summary
So far, I’m really digging KUIU’s Attack pants. I anticipate that it will have a home in my year-round system for years to come. I might even grab a pair or two in other colors for casual wearing. As KUIU says, this is “The pant to own if you only own one.” I couldn’t agree more.
Which KUIU Pants Are Best Suited for Your Next Hunt? Learn more here
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Ready to buy? KUIU sells consumer-direct to avoid typical retail markups. You can buy the Attack Pant at KUIU.com.
Thanks to Torin Miller for writing this unpaid review. and to KUIU for providing their product for evaluation. Hunting Gear Deals is funded by affiliate commissions. We may receive a small commission when you buy from our partners using the links provided. There is no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting us by using our links when making your purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions about KUIU
- What is KUIU and what does the brand specialize in?
- KUIU is a hunting apparel brand that over-engineers its products to outperform expectations, even in the harshest environments. KUIU is popular for western hunters and is the go-to brand for extreme condition hunts like sheep.
- What sets KUIU apart from other outdoor gear brands?
- Materials. KUIU invests in the best materials that are purposely crafted to enhance the hunting experience.
- Are KUIU products specifically designed for certain outdoor activities or can they be used for multiple purposes?
- KUIU offers multi-purpose clothing options, as well as clothing options for specific hunting scenarios. For instance, they’ve got clothing to keep you cool on a 90-degree desert mule deer hunt, as well as a sub-zero muskox hunt. In between, you’ll multi-purpose clothing that can be utilized to during hunts for elk, turkey, deer, antelope, bear, and much more.
- What materials are used in KUIU products and what are their advantages?
- Each product is designed for a purpose, so there’s not just one material for all situations and that’s what makes KUIU great!
- Are KUIU products suitable for different weather conditions and climates?
- Absolutely! Just make sure you’re using the right clothing for that weather condition.
- How durable are KUIU products? Can they withstand rugged outdoor environments?
- KUIU products are over-engineered for most hunting conditions and if you take care of them, they’ll last you for years. If not, KUIU offers a great warranty as well.
- Does KUIU offer a wide range of sizing options to accommodate different body types?
- Sizing options vary and it’s best to try KUIU clothing on before you make an order. If you happen to order the wrong size, KUIU will typically exchange them without issue.
- Are KUIU products lightweight and packable for backpacking and other weight-sensitive activities?
- KUIU products are ideal for hiking into the backcountry. They’re some of the best options on the market for lightweight hunting and backpacking apparel.
- What kind of technology or innovations does KUIU incorporate into its products?
- Too many to mention here. They are the industry standard.
- How can I determine the right size and fit for KUIU clothing and gear?
- See the size chart that KUIU offers on its website. It’s best to find a nearby trade show to try on multiple options before you make a large investment.
- Are there any specific care instructions for maintaining and cleaning KUIU products?
- See the tag for each garment for more details.
- Can KUIU gear be customized or personalized?
- You’ll have to talk with a KUIU sales rep for that information.
- Does KUIU offer a return or exchange policy?
- Yes, contact their customer service department for more information.
- Where can I find KUIU products and do they have physical retail locations?
- The best place to try on KUIU clothing is at local trade shows. KUIU is a direct-to-consumer company, so you won’t find them in your local sporting goods store.
- How does the KUIU Warranty work?
- KUIU stands behind its products with a lifetime warranty! This warranty covers any manufacturer workmanship defects in your KUIU gear but applies for consumer use only and is null and void if the product is used in a manner it is not intended for. This warranty is for the original consumer purchaser only. It is not transferable. Proof of purchase must be verified.
- Are KUIU Attack Pants warm?
- The KUIU Attack Pant is a early to mid-season pant that’s best worn when temperatures are mildly warm.
- are kuiu attack pants waterproof?
- are kuiu attack pants quiet
AUTHOR BIO
Growing up in the heart of Central Pennsylvania provided Torin Miller with every incentive necessary to pursue a life engorged in the natural world. With a B.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science, and the current pursuit of an M.S. in the same field and a J.D. in Environmental Law, he has a deep appreciation for wildlife, wild places and the wild-at-heart people that love these things as much as he. Archery hunting for mountain whitetails is his absolute passion, but he also enjoys hunting turkeys and waterfowl. Surrounded by some of the best trout waters in the world, Torin enjoys fly-fishing his local streams and enjoys kayaking these streams throughout the summer, too.
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