Hi everyone,
I’m looking for a jacket under $200 for living outdoors in northern Maine. I’ll be focusing on primitive living and bushcraft skills during spring through fall. I’ll be spending a lot of time around campfires and canoeing, but not much hiking. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
For full-time outdoor living, I recommend getting a Carhartt or similar canvas chore coat. These are durable and won’t get ruined by campfire embers like synthetic materials often do.
(Edit: If you’re concerned about cotton, look into “cordura chore coats” as they offer better durability without cotton.)
@Ash
Experienced wilderness backpacker here. Just a heads-up: cotton isn’t ideal for outdoor use as it retains moisture and loses insulation when wet. Wool or synthetics are safer choices for bushcraft. If you’re looking for durable gear, military surplus is also a great option.
@Vann
That’s valid for backpacking, but for working at a camp with access to shelter and fire, durability is key. I’ve seen modern synthetic materials get destroyed in a single weekend around campfires and heavy work. A thick, durable outer layer like canvas or cordura would hold up much better in those conditions.
@Ash
Hypothermia can set in quickly when wet, so I’d still avoid cotton. Wool and synthetics are much safer and provide insulation even when wet. For outer layers, consider military surplus gear—it’s durable and functional. Safety should always come first.
@Ash
“Cotton kills” is not just a saying—it’s a real risk. For survival situations, I’d still recommend layers like wool or synthetics under a durable outer layer. Good luck out there!
@Ash
Canvas is a solid choice for durability. Brands like Carhartt, Driduck, and Truewerk offer great options, and you can find discounts this time of year. Make sure to size it to allow layering underneath for colder days.
Have you looked into Driza-Bone jackets? They’re great for outdoor work and campfire-heavy activities.
Consider merino wool base layers—they’re durable, insulate when wet, and resist odors naturally. For outer layers, a synthetic lightweight puffy with a durable shell like Gore-Tex can work well. Military surplus Gore-Tex gear is another great option for durability and cost.
Rain gear and a bug net are essential in Maine, especially during mosquito season. Let me know if you need more tips—I’ve spent months in the North Woods and can share insights on gear, knives, or anything else!
LL Bean has some lightweight down jackets on sale right now. They’re warm and great for spring to fall outdoor use.