The Perfect Turkey Hunting Kit: Sitka Equinox Guard Review

For many of us, spring turkey season rival’s deer season in excitement—some might even say it’s better. But if there’s one thing that can ruin a great hunt, it's dealing with ticks, chiggers, and other pests. Like most hunters, I’ve relied on permethrin sprays like Sawyer’s to treat my clothing and gear. It’s a great product—effective and reliable—but it does require time to apply and fully dry, which isn’t always convenient, especially during a busy season.

That’s why I was intrigued by the Sitka Equinox Guard system, a clothing line built with integrated Insect Shield® technology. This feature removes the need to pre-treat clothing, offering ready-to-wear protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and more. Skeptical but curious, I put the Equinox Guard Pants and Hoody to the test on a recent turkey hunt—and they did not disappoint.

Performance in the Field

We covered about two miles through prime tick territory—fields and woods with waist-high grass—and I didn’t find a single tick on me by the end of the day. The insect-repelling claims held true. I was genuinely impressed.

Comfort and Functionality

The Equinox Guard Pants are lightweight and breathable—ideal for spring and early fall hunts. The material dries quickly and features zippered side vents for extra airflow on hot days. With ample pockets, including a dedicated knife pocket, the pants are both practical and hunter friendly. Internal leg gaiters, when tucked into your socks, offer added protection against crawling insects.

The Equinox Guard Hoody is just as impressive. Lightweight, fast-drying, and designed with a built-in breathable face mask and a zippered chest vent for added ventilation, it provides full upper-body protection without sacrificing comfort.

Fit and Sizing Tips

Fit is true to size. I typically wear a large shirt and 32-inch pants, but due to limited availability, I purchased a size up in both. While still comfortable, the looser fit—especially in the hood and face mask—wasn’t ideal. For the best performance and comfort, I recommend sticking to your normal size.

Final Thoughts

The Sitka Equinox Guard system offers a reliable, comfortable, and hassle-free solution to bug protection in the field. For hunters looking to avoid the yearly task of treating clothes with chemicals, while staying cool and mobile during spring hunts, this gear is an excellent investment. Highly recommended for anyone serious about comfort, performance, and bug defense.

Product Specs

Sitka Equinox Guard Pants

Sitka Equinox Guard Hoody

Happy hunting, and stay bite-free out there!