4-Level Waterproof Shielding

3 Thermoregulation Systems

560 g | EU 44 

1lb 3.75 oz | 30

20-10°C | Layered to -20°C

70–40°F | Layered: 40 to –5°F

Hunting: Driven, Stalking, Bow

Fishing, Outdoor, Trekking

Man, women, youth

Optimized Fit Patterning

Ultralight Waterproof Layer

5th Layer - Outer Shield

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AlphaShell 5WL waterproof hunting pants deliver lightweight, breathable protection when the weather turns rough. Get ready for whatever comes next.

This guide breaks down what makes Hillman's 5WL waterproof hunting pants a genuine breakthrough in hunting gear. We'll cover the advanced technologies that set these rain pants apart and explain why these lightweight pants represent the future of waterproof hunting gear.

Revolutionary Breakthroughs That Change Everything

A man in outdoor gear stands in a sunlit autumn forest. Center: close-up of Waterproof AlphaShell 5WL Lightweight Hunting Pants with labeled features. Right: man examines black gloves, wearing the same pants and cap in the forest.

After two decades of textile innovation, Hillman has created hunting pants that solve problems the hunting world has accepted for too long. The Dryhunt® nanomembrane is the most breathable waterproof fabric available to hunters, using electrospun nanofiber technology that lets moisture escape while blocking rain completely. While 99.9% of membranes trap sweat inside, this nanoporous membrane allows your body to breathe naturally.

The Termovent® system manages temperature through three levels: the membrane itself, customizable side zippers, and a peak-point vent positioned where heat naturally rises. The ERGO anatomical pattern delivers an athletic fit for men, women, and youth that accommodates multiple layers comfortably. Durasuede fabric combines durability, silence, and stretch in ways conventional materials cannot match.

Hunting Pants Built for Real Performance

Whether you're hunting deer in the early dawn light or sitting through long rifle season days, your pants need to perform when it matters. These hunting pants weigh just 560 grams but deliver serious heavy-duty protection. The difference shows immediately in wet conditions when conventional pants trap sweat while these actively transport moisture away.

The fabric is designed to handle everything from desert cactus to dense forest brush. It's thornproof yet soft enough to stay quiet when pressed against cover. Paired with proper base layers and a mid layer, these waterproof pants work from 20°C down to -25°C, covering hunts from early season through fall and late season.

Waterproof Pants with Intelligent Design

A man in brown outdoor gear and a cap puts on Lightweight Hunting Pants - Waterproof AlphaShell 5WL in a sunlit autumn forest, shown in three sequential images.

Full-length side zippers change how you wear rain pants. You can zip them on over your boots during morning hunts in mist and dew, then zip them off when conditions turn warm by mid-day. When afternoon storms roll in under grey skies, they go back on instantly for complete protection.

This versatility transforms one set of waterproof pants into essential hunting gear. They pack down small enough to carry everywhere yet perform like heavy-duty protection when the weather hits. Smart hunters stock these in their pack as their go-to outer layer.

Versatile Colour Options for Every Environment

Available in practical solid colours, including brown and additional neutral tones that work effectively across varied terrain. Many hunters prefer the brown option because it pairs seamlessly with any hunting jacket and existing gear. Light tones suit hunts in mild conditions, while darker options excel in fall. The soft brushed texture mimics deer hide, naturally breaking up your outline.

Waterproof Camo Pants in Photocamouflage Patterns

A man outdoors models the Lightweight Hunting Pants - Waterproof AlphaShell 5WL; the center panel displays the front view, while side and back views appear left and right, all with a natural blurred background.

For hunters who prefer photocamouflage, Hillman offers the 5WL waterproof hunting pants in premium camo patterns, including Realtree Edge and khaki-based camouflage options. These camo pants feature identical Dryhunt® technology, Termovent® system, and Durasuede construction as solid colour versions. The camo patterns provide excellent concealment across various hunting environments while maintaining all the breathability, protection, and silence features.

Cold-Weather Hunting Pants and Complete Systems

You'll get the best performance from these pants when you pair them with Hillman's 5WL cold-weather hunting jacket for a complete layering system. Start with base layers against your skin. When temperatures drop, add a mid layer for insulation. These pants serve as your outer layer to lock everything in.

Hunting Gear That Masters Temperature Control

The sweat problem ruins more hunts than hunters realize. You generate warmth hiking to your stand. Without proper ventilation, sweat builds up fast. Sit still in cold weather and that trapped moisture goes cold against your skin fast. These pants solve that as your breathable, waterproof outer layer, keeping you protected while your body regulates temperature the way it should. The side zippers and peak-point vent release warm, moist air right where it rises, giving you control when moving hard.

Rain Pants with Premium Construction

Quality construction shows in details that matter. YKK AquaGuard zippers run full leg length and secure waterproof pockets that keep gear dry. Every zipper is welded and armed to withstand the abuse that comes with serious hunting. The anti-slip knees incorporate reinforced materials intended to resist wear from sitting on logs, rocks, or ground.

Eco-friendly DWR coating prevents fabric from absorbing water and gaining weight. Every seam receives sealing with breathable tape. This four-level waterproof system delivers protection far beyond basic water-resistant treatments. The difference becomes apparent during extended periods in rain or pushing through wet brush.

Features for Serious Hunters

Four views of Lightweight Hunting Pants - Waterproof AlphaShell 5WL: rear with dark blue waistband, close-up front zipper pockets, side view for fit and details, and full side shot worn with brown boots and a long-sleeve shirt.

The Varilock® waist system adjusts plus or minus one full size. Whether you gain weight over winter or drop pounds during the season, your pants maintain a perfect fit. The closure can withstand 100 kilograms of force, exceeding what traditional zippers or buttons could handle.

Ankle adjustments dial in a perfect fit over boots of varying heights measured in inches, while knee adjustments customize leg fit when using heavy base layers underneath. Articulated knees maintain a full range of motion whether sitting for hours, actively stalking, or climbing into elevated stands.

Waterproof Hunting Pants for Extreme Conditions

When you need the toughest pants for extreme hunting conditions, these waterproof hunting pants deliver comprehensive performance. Hunters comparing options like De Havilland pants and other premium brands will appreciate how these combine protection with genuine comfort. They're lighter, more breathable, and constructed with durable materials that outperform competitors.

The fabric uses advanced materials intended for demanding hunting environments. When you consider the price over the life of these pants versus replacing cheaper rain gear yearly, the value becomes obvious. Backed by a 2-year warranty.

Early-Season Versatility Through Fall

Early-season hunting brings those classic warm afternoons and cool morning starts. These pants adapt perfectly. Pull them on as a lightweight outer layer when temperatures drop, when it's getting too warm, strip them off. As conditions transition through fall, add more layers underneath while maintaining excellent protection.

Heavy Duty Construction That Lasts

Reinforced areas include knees and seat, high-wear zones that see the most abuse. Durasuede fabric resists tearing when pressed against a sharp brush. Stretch fabric moves naturally with every arm movement and body motion. You'll notice the performance immediately: how they breathe when working up a sweat, the silence when stalking deer, and staying dry during all-day sits in the rain. These details matter to hunters worldwide who depend on durable gear.

FAQ: Waterproof Hunting Pants

Got questions about Hillman's waterproof hunting pants? Here are answers to what hunters ask most about performance, protection, and real-world use.

Can I wear these rain pants over my regular hunting pants?

Yes. Full-length side zippers let you put these on over any pants or boots without removing footwear.

How do these compare to water-resistant pants?

Water-resistant fabrics eventually soak through. These pants feature four waterproof levels: Dryhunt® membrane, DWR coating, sealed seams, and YKK AquaGuard zippers for complete protection.

Will these work in challenging weather conditions?

Absolutely. They function as a windproof, waterproof outer layer from 20°C to minus 25°C when paired with proper base layers and insulation.

Are these quiet enough for bow hunting?

Yes. Durasuede fabric mimics soft deer hide and stays remarkably silent, making these ideal for bow hunting and stalking situations.

Get your 5WL Rain Pants

A man models the Waterproof AlphaShell 5WL Lightweight Hunting Pants in a studio with a fitted shirt and boots. The center image shows him outdoors in the pants with a jacket and cap, walking among autumn leaves.

When the forecast looks questionable and others stay home, you'll be heading out with gear you can trust. Don't let another season pass with rain pants that fail when conditions get tough. Make the purchase that transforms how you view challenging weather. Quality waterproof pants turn miserable days into memorable hunts.

Ultra-compact Versatile

Featuring a lightweight, adaptive design with full-length side zippers, these 590g (1 lb 4 oz) pants are your ultimate backup for unpredictable weather. Slip them on effortlessly without removing your footwear when sudden rain strikes. Once the weather clears, shed the waterproof layer to stay comfortable and mobile. Their ultra-compact design packs down small, keeping them ready for whenever you need them.

Logo featuring the text DRYHUNT NANOMEMBRANE in bold orange letters on a black, curved rectangular background, showcasing the brands commitment to quality for both mens and womens apparel.
Logo with the text termovent in a light gray font, featuring a stylized fan icon inside the letter o. Below, an orange bar contains the words CLIMATRONIC TECHNOLOGY in white, all caps font.
Logo featuring the text ERGO in capital letters, with a human figure in a Vitruvian Man pose in the center, arms and legs outstretched, overlapping the letters. The color is a muted beige or tan.

4-Level Waterproof Shielding

Level 1

Dryhunt® nanomembrane

Dryhunt® is a groundbreaking hydrophobic nanofiber membrane that redefines what's possible in hunting gear. Thanks to its unique technology and structure, it outperforms not only the non-porous hydrophilic membranes but also any membrane with nanoporous structure.

Developed with precision in South Korea, Dryhunt® is crafted with an unparalleled focus on performance. Its cutting-edge nanofiber technology supports insulation layers to operate at peak efficiency, keeping you dry, comfortable, and focused on your hunt. This is not just a membrane—it's the pinnacle of waterproof and breathable innovation, offering an advantage no other product can match.

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Logo featuring the text DRYHUNT NANOMEMBRANE in bold orange letters on a black, curved rectangular background, showcasing the brands commitment to quality for both mens and womens apparel.

Nanofiber revolution

Dryhunt® is created by spreading nanofibers through electrospinning, which creates a fibrous layer that lets air move freely through it while blocking water penetration.

Completely PFAS-free and eco-friendly, Dryhunt® sets the gold standard in performance, reliability, and sustainability.

Nanomembrane fiber high-voltage dispersing ©Nanoscience.com 

Next-Gen Waterproof Technology

The gaps between nanofibers are 20 times smaller than the water drop which makes the membrane fully waterproof. At the same time allows an incredible 90 cubic feet of air/moisture per square foot to pass through every 24 hours—equivalent to the air volume of a spacious living room.

Close-up image of a dense network of thin, white fibers crisscrossing in random directions, creating a complex web-like texture against a dark background.
Microscopic view of a fibrous material with annotations. Top label shows 0.00028 µm, Water Molecules-Vapor next to small blue particles. Bottom label shows 10 µm, Water Droplet near a larger droplet on fibers.
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⛊ Level 2 | DWR

To prevent the fabric from soaking and gaining weight, we use eco-friendly DWR C0, a fluorine-free treatment that ensures long-lasting water repellency and sustainability.

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⛊ Level 3 | Seam Sealing

To ensure seams are waterproof, we use breathable seam sealing tape, providing added protection without compromising comfort or performance.

Close-up of a green leaf with water droplets on its surface. The background is softly blurred, with out-of-focus water droplets floating in the air, creating a refreshing and serene atmosphere.

⛊ Level 4 | YKK AquaGuard

For ultimate protection against water, we use premium YKK AquaGuard zippers, renowned as the industry leader for their unmatched efficiency and reliability.

Logo with the text termovent in a light gray font, featuring a stylized fan icon inside the letter o. Below, an orange bar contains the words CLIMATRONIC TECHNOLOGY in white, all caps font.

3 Level Thermoregulation

When outside temperatures are low and you are moving actively, your body generates excess heat and moisture. Without proper moisture management and thermoregulation, you can overheat while moving or freeze when you stop, as moisture buildup cools your body rapidly.

Termovent® technology manages moisture and thermoregulation through three advanced technologies.

Together,they create the world’s most advanced and efficient thermoregulation system, suitable for temperatures ranging from 20°C to -25°C (68°F to -13°F). Designed for Mild, Cool, Cold, Very Cold, and Extreme Cold weather conditions, this system delivers unparalleled comfort and performance with the option to add layers for the harshest environments.

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𖦹 Dryhunt® nanomembrane

Our advanced nanofiber membrane efficiently expels excess heat and moisture through its airy structure, ensuring optimal comfort while maintaining complete protection against external elements.

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𖦹 Side zippers

For intense activity, the side zippers allow you to customize ventilation by adjusting the openings to release excess heat and moisture, enhancing comfort during high-exertion tasks.

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𖦹 Peak-point Vent

The peak-point vent, positioned at the highest evaporation point on the back of the waist, is strategically placed where the hottest moisture naturally rises and can be transported outside.

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Text DURASUEDE in large, distressed white letters on a gradient background from dark brown to light brown. Below, in smaller white text, it reads HUNTING SHIELD PERFECTED by HILLMAN, emphasizing the excellence of their womens hunting gear.

Silent, Durable and Stretch - Now All in One

Designed to overcome the challenge of creating a waterproof shell that balances durability and quietness. Durability demands a high-density woven structure, similar to canvas, while noise reduction benefits from a softer, low-density design like fleece. To achieve this balance, the fabric features a brushed woven surface that mimics deer suede leather, providing a premium feel while significantly reducing noise during movement. This innovative shell is almost noiseless, excelling in thorny underbrush and tough terrains while offering durability, protection, and long-lasting performance in the toughest conditions.

Comparison of three fabrics: Woven Cordura (too noisy), Woven Durasuede (good durability, noise reduction, stretch), and Knitted Fleece (too weak). Each rated on silent level and thorn-proof.

Any coated or membrane-bonded fabric generates some level of noise. Knitted fleece-like fabrics are the quietest but the least durable, while woven Cordura-like fabrics are the strongest but also the noisiest.

Hillman's Durasuede is a breakthrough fabric that combines unmatched durability from its woven construction, exceptional noise reduction from its brushed acoustic surface, and superior comfort thanks to its stretch design. Backed by 20 years of textile expertise, we are proud to present the first ultimate hunting fabric, offering an unprecedented balance of durability, noise reduction, and comfort-all in one.

Brown, gear-shaped cluster with labels for antenna holders, radio/GPS/dog tracker, and MOLLE attachments. Includes slots for different ammo calibers, flashlight, pocket knife, and carabiner hook.

All specifications

Two pairs of rugged, outdoor pants are shown. The left pair is brown with black knee patches, featuring waterproof zippers, anatomical tailoring, and reinforced knees. The right pair has a camouflage pattern with a ventilation system and quick side zippers.
US top 5 Best hunting rain jacket compare chart test - Hillman intl