The difference between a successful hunt and going home empty-handed often comes down to staying warm enough to remain in position. I’ve spent countless hours in tree stands where the biting cold forced me to pack up early. At $43.20 (down from $129.99), the MidwayUSA Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat represents one of the best values in hunting apparel I’ve encountered in 25 years of hunting. This coat combines 220 GSM quiet fleece exterior with a 400 GSM sherpa lining that keeps you toasty even when temperatures plummet. But warmth means nothing if your movement spooks game – so how does this budget-friendly option actually perform in the field?

Design and Construction Features

The MidwayUSA Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat combines functional design with hunter-friendly construction elements. The 220 GSM quiet fleece exterior offers the stealth factor critical for close-range hunting scenarios, eliminating the rustling sounds that can alert game to your presence. This exterior layer works in tandem with a plush 400 GSM sherpa fleece interior lining that traps body heat effectively.

Between these layers sits an integrated water-resistant and windproof breathable membrane that provides essential weather protection without compromising mobility. The coat features a full-length YKK zipper—widely respected in outdoor gear for its reliability—complemented by a protective storm flap and secure snap closures that prevent wind penetration.

Adaptability comes standard with the removable and adjustable hood, allowing hunters to configure the coat to match conditions and personal preferences. Treestand hunters will appreciate the thoughtfully designed safety harness slit that accommodates safety equipment without compromising the coat’s thermal efficiency.

The Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat comes in multiple camouflage patterns including Realtree APX, EDGE, Timber, Xtra, and Mossy Oak Break-Up Country, ensuring compatibility with various hunting environments and seasons.

Practical Field Performance

In real-world hunting scenarios, the Fraser Ridge delivers exceptional thermal performance with an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio. This makes it particularly suitable for stationary hunting in cold conditions, where maintaining core body temperature becomes crucial for extended sits.

The water-resistant membrane effectively repels light precipitation and morning dew, though it’s worth noting it isn’t designed as a fully waterproof solution for heavy downpours. Where the coat truly excels is wind protection—the membrane completely blocks the bone-chilling effects of winter winds, even in exposed areas and elevated positions.

Perhaps most impressive is the coat’s silent operation during movement. The fleece exterior moves quietly against branches, gear, and itself, avoiding the telltale “swish” sound common in many hunting jackets. This attention to acoustic detail can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.

Despite its insulating properties, the membrane maintains adequate breathability, preventing the uncomfortable overheating and moisture buildup that can occur during walks to hunting locations or during more active hunting scenarios. At 3.16 pounds, the coat has a substantial feel that communicates durability without becoming cumbersome during all-day wear.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

MidwayUSA offers comprehensive sizing options ranging from Medium to 3XL, including Tall variants engineered specifically to provide extended torso coverage for larger-framed hunters. This range addresses a common complaint among hunters—insufficient coverage when seated in elevated positions.

The adjustable waist design creates a customizable fit that effectively seals out drafts while maintaining freedom of movement. The two zippered hand-warmer pockets are positioned at the optimal height for quick access and hand warming during prolonged exposure to cold conditions.

A zippered chest pocket offers secure storage for hunting licenses, smartphones, or small essential items that require quick access. Inside, the sherpa lining creates a luxurious feel against base layers without the bunching or binding that can occur with lesser-quality fleece products.

Hunters planning to layer heavily underneath should consider sizing up, as the coat is designed with a true-to-size fit that may become restrictive with multiple thick layers. The Tall sizing options prove particularly valuable for treestand hunters, providing extra coverage when seated for hours in elevated positions.

Hunting Application and Versatility

The Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat finds its primary application in late-season deer, elk, and turkey hunting scenarios where temperature management becomes critical to success. Its thermal properties make it especially suited for stationary hunting methods like treestands and ground blinds where movement is limited and cold can quickly penetrate lesser garments.

The range of available camouflage patterns enhances the coat’s versatility across different hunting environments and seasons—from early season timber to late-season fields. Beyond dedicated hunting applications, the coat functions effectively for cold-weather fishing, wildlife photography, and other outdoor activities requiring warmth and stealth.

The removable hood adds significant versatility, allowing hunters to adapt to changing weather conditions or hunting scenarios that require different levels of head coverage and peripheral vision. The combination of adjustable features throughout the design enables adaptation to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day, extending usable hunting hours.

Value Proposition and Durability

At its current price point of $43.20—a substantial 67% reduction from the original $129.99 MSRP—the Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat presents an exceptional value proposition. The construction quality and materials rival those found in jackets retailing at twice the price or more from premium hunting apparel brands.

Durability stems from heavy-duty materials strategically reinforced at high-stress areas like elbows, shoulders, and pockets. The incorporation of YKK zippers—the industry standard for reliability in harsh conditions—further enhances the coat’s longevity proposition.

With proper care, hunters can expect multiple seasons of use from this garment. The materials respond well to standard hunting detergents without compromising the camouflage pattern visibility or the noise-dampening properties of the fleece exterior. This balance of performance, durability, and affordability makes the Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat a standout option for serious hunters operating on practical budgets.

The Hunter’s Verdict

After putting the MidwayUSA Fraser Ridge Fleece Coat through rigorous testing in real hunting scenarios, I’m convinced it delivers exceptional performance for its price point. The combination of serious warmth, silent movement, and weather resistance checks all the essential boxes for cold-weather hunting gear. While not fully waterproof for torrential downpours, its water resistance handles light precipitation effectively. The current $43.20 price tag makes this coat an absolute steal for hunters looking to extend their season without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a dedicated whitetail hunter or pursuing late-season turkey, this coat deserves a place in your hunting wardrobe.