If you’re preparing for a western antelope hunt, dialing in your clothing system is just as critical as scouting or shooting prep. Long hikes, temperature swings, and relentless wind define pronghorn country—so your gear needs to work smarter, not harder.

TUO Gear President Aaron Ambur recently shared his field-tested layering system for antelope hunting. It’s a setup built for breathable performance, lightweight mobility, and protection from harsh western elements.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what he packs—and why each piece earns its place.

Kinetic Merino 150 Hoodie: The Ultimate Base Layer for Antelope Hunts

For warm weather and active movement, Aaron starts with the Kinetic Merino 150 Hoodie. This ultra-lightweight, long-sleeved layer is made from premium merino wool that naturally regulates temperature, controls odor, and breathes incredibly well.

Ideal for glassing at first light or stalking in the afternoon sun, the 150 Hoodie stays quiet and comfortable throughout the day—a must-have for any early-season pronghorn hunt.

Aptitude Softshell Vest: Windproof Core Insulation for Cool Mornings and Evenings

Next up is the Aptitude Vest, a compact thermal layer Aaron wears when early morning or evening temps dip. This vest provides lightweight insulation and is fully windproof, keeping your core protected when gusts pick up across open plains or high ridgelines.

Layered over the Kinetic Hoodie, the Aptitude Vest is a go-to for stationary glassing sessions and post-sunset pack-outs.

Velocity Merino Pant: Lightweight Outerwear for Hot, Dry Antelope Hunts

The Velocity Merino Pant is Aaron’s choice for breathable lower-body protection during high-heat hunts. As a lightweight outerwear pant, it combines merino wool's natural odor resistance and softness with nylon stretch for long hikes and spot-and-stalk mobility.

For early-season hunts in dry, open country, the Velocity delivers airflow, stealth, and comfort—ideal when temperatures rise and movement is constant.

Clime Pant: Durable, Wind-Resistant Protection for Rough Terrain

When conditions call for more rugged protection, Aaron turns to the Clime Pant. This outerwear piece is slightly heavier than the Velocity, but provides greater durability, wind-blocking capabilities, and better resistance to moisture from dew-covered grass or light weather.

Whether crawling through sagebrush or hiking through rocky draws, the Clime is purpose-built for western antelope hunting terrain.

Why This Layering System Works for Antelope Hunting

Aaron’s system offers the flexibility needed to handle unpredictable conditions out West:

• Lightweight, breathable layers for high-output movement during hot hunts
• Windproof insulation from the Aptitude Vest to block morning and evening gusts
• Durability and mobility with two outerwear pant options tailored for heat or rugged terrain
• Natural stealth and odor resistance thanks to high-merino content fabrics

How to Layer for Early Season Pronghorn Success

Here's Aaron’s strategy for building the perfect layering system for an early western antelope opener:

1. Start with the Kinetic Merino 150 Hoodie – Your breathable base for glassing and mid-day movement.
2. Add the Aptitude Vest – Windproof and insulated for chilly mornings or evening sits.
3. Choose your outerwear pants:

• Velocity Merino Pant – Best for dry, high-heat hunts where breathability is key.
• Clime Pant – Ideal for moisture-rich terrain or when more protection is needed.

Each piece compresses easily, layers efficiently, and adapts to changing weather—perfect for staying mobile and undetected across pronghorn country.

Final Take: Gear Up Smart for Your Early Season Antelope Hunt

Aaron Ambur’s trusted system—featuring the Kinetic Merino 150 Hoodie, Aptitude Vest, Velocity Merino Pant, and Clime Pant—is built for hunters tackling the unique challenges of western antelope hunting.

Lightweight, packable, and field-proven, this gear setup ensures you can focus on your hunt—not your discomfort.