Late season in Canada is all about one thing: staying warm. When temperatures drop and wind, moisture, and snow become your daily reality, your insulation system becomes your best friend. After years of running First Lite gear these are my top late-season picks that I trust every single year

1. Best Mountain Hunting Insulation Jacket: Brooks Down Sweater

If you want maximum warmth without adding weight, the Brooks Down Sweater continues to be my #1 choice. I’ve run this jacket for multiple seasons, and it still surprises me with how much heat it traps for how little space it takes.

Key Features:

• 800 fill 37.5 Active Down for serious warmth-to-weight performance
  
  

• Ultra-packable design - compresses easily into a pack lid or pocket
  
  

• Lightweight yet warm for long climbs and exposed ridge glassing
  
  

• Ideal for mountain hunters who count every ounce
  
  

Why I Pick It:
When you’re moving hard uphill, you need something light. When you stop on a windy plateau to glass, you need something warm. The Brooks gives you both without the bulk.

2. Best Synthetic Jacket Option: North Range Puffy Jacket

For hunters who want more features and prefer synthetic insulation, the North Range Puffy is my top pick. Synthetic really shines in late-season conditions where moisture, sweat, and unpredictable weather are all in the mix.

Key Features:

• Synthetic insulation that keeps insulating even when damp
  
  

• More features - pockets, hood design, and better weather protection
  
  

• Durable shell for heavier brush and harsher use
  
  

• Great for mixed conditions where moisture management matters
  
  

Why I Choose It:
Down is great, until it gets wet. For wetter climates, late season hikes, or all day sits in snow or sleet, the North Range Puffy gives you the confidence that your insulation will still perform.

3. Best Insulation Jacket for Waterfowl & Whitetail: Challis Fleece

If you’re hunting waterfowl or whitetails and packability isn’t a priority, the Challis Fleece is a must have mid-to-late season piece. Fleece remains one of the quietest and most comfortable insulating materials available.

Key Features:

• Low-Pile fleece that is quiet, and warm
  
  

• Great for treestand hunters who need silent movement
  
  

• Excellent for waterfowl blinds where bulk isn’t a big concern
  
  

• Durable, comfortable, and reliable warmth
  
  

Why Waterfowl + Whitetail Hunters Need It:
You’re not stuffing this in a pack you’re wearing it all day. Fleece thrives in cold sits, low movement, and scenarios where quiet fabric matters.

4. Must-Have Base Layer: Kiln Zip-Off Long John

No late-season kit is complete without smart base layers, and nothing beats the Kiln Zip-Off Long John.

Key Features:

• Zip-off design lets you remove or add your base layer without removing boots or pants
  
  

• Merino blend fabric for warmth, breathability, and odour resistance
  
  

• Perfect for big hikes in / long sits out
  
  

Why It Matters:
You can hike in cool and dry, then zip them on instantly once you stop moving. Temperature management doesn’t get better than this.

5. Don’t Forget the Head: Furnace 350 Beanie (Touque)

Your head is one of the biggest heat-loss zones, so the Furnace 350 Beanie is a simple but essential late-season addition.

Key Features:

• Heavyweight 350 merino for warm, breathable insulation
  
  

• Moisture-managing fibers help keep sweat off your head
  
  

• Soft, and comfortable
  
  

Merino Advantage:
Merino keeps you warm even when damp and doesn’t collect odour, perfect for long days in the cold.

6. Final Essential: Cody Leather Glove

To finish off the kit, the Cody Leather Glove is my go-to hand protection.

Key Features:

• Durable leather construction for longevity and protection
  
  

• Warm, natural insulation feel
  
  

• Breaks in perfectly over time for a custom fit
  
  

Why Leather:
Leather gloves age with you. They soften, shape to your hand, and offer excellent durability for late-season chores, shooting, and handling gear.

Final Thoughts

These are the late season pieces I trust year after year. Whether you're climbing mountains, sitting timber for whitetails, or battling wind on a waterfowl spread, these layers will keep you warm, dry, and ready.

For a full look at each piece make sure to watch the video below or check them out at Fargone.ca.