Rain gear is essential shielding attire that you can’t avoid, whether you’re out camping, adventure on the boat, or even on a hunting mission. Getting drenched by rain, especially in the cold; hell no!
So, how do you choose the jacket that will leave you dry as a bone and best suit your needs? Worry not; I’ll help you out! KUIU Chugach has some swishy noise, while Northridge is dead silent. Chugach is the latest KUIU gear, while Northridge was created before.
The wait is over! Let’s get this show moving.
A Brief Comparison Table
Item Specification | KUIU Chugach Rain Jacket | KUIU Northridge Rain Jacket |
Noise Level | Little noise produced | Dead silent |
Time of Manufacture | Latest | Created before |
Technology Used | TORAIN | Nuyarn |
Weight | Lighter | Slightly heavier |
Purpose | Backpack hunting | Tree stand hunting |
Quality | Good | Excellent |
Price | Pants- $187 Jacket- $224 | Pants- $199 Jacket- $259 |
In-depth Differences Between KUIU Chugach And Northridge
- Noise Level
A jacket that can keep you dry with no noise is a bonus.
KUIU Chugach produces little noise.
This means that it might not be the best gear for hunting expeditions because you don’t want to scare away your target hunt, right?
But all in all, the attire is waterproof, keeps you completely warm, and you don’t have to postpone any activity because of rain.
On the other hand, Northridge is dead silent.
Yes, you got that right. It is the quietest gear you’ll find!
This is for you if you want a garment for stand hunts.
- Time of Manufacture
Chugach is the latest brand produced by KUIU, and I have to admit, they did a marvelous job. Kudos to them! It has increased its waterproof nature and breathability, making it the best gear for backcountry hunts.
Moreover, the weight has been reduced by 20%.
But, Northridge was produced before, and they understood the assignment. The rain gear is designed with exceptional features that offer maximum protection and work well in various hunting conditions.
- Technology Used
Chugach incorporates TORAIN technology to ensure the set is completely waterproof by enabling a high abrasion resistance and increasing strength.
In contrast, Northridge features Nuyarn technology that ensures versatility across extreme conditions, making the gear convenient for mountain hunting. On top of that, it creates an odor-free environment by properly and efficiently managing moisture.
- Weight
Are you looking for the lightest rain gear there is?
Look no further! KUIU Chugach right here! It is extremely lightweight and works like a charm in wet and rugged areas without worrying about additional weight.
Moreover, the garment is light enough to carry in your pack daily.
Conversely, Northridge is slightly heavier. But that’s expected due to the many pockets present in the rain gear. Plus, if there is heavy rain, nothing can stop you with this gear.
- Purpose
KUIU Chugach set is the ideal representation of everything a mountain hunter needs in gear. The pants and jacket are waterproof, breathable, and durable, making them the best pick for backpack hunters.
On the contrary, Northridge is appropriate in tree stand hunting adventures. It’s super quiet, ready for downpours as it is entirely waterproof, and contains a windproof outer shell.
- Quality
You can always get good quality, but excellent? That’s another level!
KUIU Chugach contains remarkable features such as an adjustable belt to fit different sizes, elastic wrist cuffs, PU-coated leg zippers for easy removal, and great ventilation.
Are you looking for the best quality? This is the part you’ve been yearning for.
Northridge has a modular system to allow the hunter to swap multiple packs to fit their hunting needs.
Additionally, the gear has a pro suspension that helps you to carry heavy weight comfortably.
- Price
Knowing the cost prior is always nice than being caught off-guard. For KUIU Chugach, the pants go for $187, and the jacket costs $224.
On the flip side, Northridge’s prices are slightly higher since the pants go for $199, while the jacket’s fee is $259.
Which Rain Gear Is Right For You?
Unfortunately, it’s not that easy; there is no one exact answer. I have an idea, though! We can get the winner by basing the rain gears on their features. This is what I’m talking about!
Chugach is a more affordable pick and super lightweight. You can carry the garment everywhere with no trouble.
However, Northridge is more costly, yes, but it has better quality, and you can go unnoticed with the gear, all thanks to its quiet nature.
Also Read: Is KUIU Rubicon Better Than The Guide Jacket?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Originally, KUIU was made in Canada. In 2012, the manufacturing process was moved to China, and the product was produced out of Japanese components.
KUIU was founded in 2011 by Jason Hairston. Later in 217, several other partners invested $50 million in the company.
For hunting activities, Northridge is the perfect fit due to its quietness. Also, the quality and durability are top-notch. However, Chugach is much lighter and more affordable.
The set is the most durable, flexible, and comfortable gear in the KUIU family tree.
Summing Up
Granted! The KUIU Chugach and Northridge comparison wasn’t easy; the same company makes them and hence has similar features. But all in all, you know how to go about it when choosing a KUIU rain gear.
Are you under budget and need gear to shield you from heavy rains?
Chugach is the answer. Nonetheless, I highly root for Northridge if you badly need quiet rain gear with excellent quality. Let’s get you out of the rain! After all, who enjoys being drenched?