For any upland hunter, the welfare and performance of their dog in the field is a top priority. Our dogs are, after all, our hunting partners, our “boots on the ground.” Whether you’re navigating through dense grouse woods or tall pheasant cattails, keeping your dog safe and comfortable is a must. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using the right gear. I have used a plethora of different upland vests for my dogs. Either the vest got torn to shreds after a couple hunts or the vest did not fit well. A lot of times I’d think something was wrong with my dog when he was limping, only to find that his leg had gotten caught in the ill-fitting vest. Among the latest innovations is the Rekoile upland vest, specifically designed for upland hunting dogs who work through thick cover and rough terrain. This blaze orange vest not only offers high visibility but also incorporates a protective design against wear and tear on the dog and the vest itself. In this review, I’ll break down the standout features of the Rekoile vest, explore its advantages over standard fabric options, and examine why it might just be an essential addition to your upland kit.

 

​​​​Increased Visibility for Safety

Visibility is one of the primary safety concerns in upland hunting, where thick cover can make even a close-working dog hard to see. Ever tried to find your dog ahead of you in the grouse woods, especially when you have a dark colored pup? The Rekoile upland vest helps solve this problem effectively, featuring a blaze orange color paired with reflective stripes and logos on both sides. These elements help ensure your dog is visible to both you and other hunters, even in lower light conditions. This high-visibility color is crucial, as upland hunts often involve challenging terrain where you might lose sight of your dog momentarily as they range ahead. While other vests use some form of visibility enhancement, Rekoile takes this further by making the entire vest bright and reflective. This complete-coverage approach not only makes it easier to track your dog at a distance but also provides extra safety if you’re hunting in areas where other hunters are present.

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Exceptional Durability Against Tough Cover

Upland terrain can be rough, from thorny brush to tangled vines and thick undergrowth. These obstacles can tear apart lesser vests, which means frequent replacements and diminished protection. The Rekoile upland vest is built with durability in mind, using layered fabric that’s tough enough to resist scratches, snags, and abrasions. The chest and belly protector of the Rekoile upland vest features a three-layer construction designed to shield your dog from the toughest brambles. The outer layer is crafted from Cordura, providing a durable, abrasion-resistant barrier against rough brush and sharp obstacles. Beneath this, a layer of neoprene adds cushioning and flexibility, ensuring comfort and absorbing impact. The final layer of Cordura reinforces the protection, offering a tough, long-lasting shield that stands up to the wear and tear of active upland hunting. This triple-layer design keeps your dog safe and comfortable, no matter the conditions.

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Lightweight Design to Prevent Overheating

One of the key challenges with many protective dog vests is the risk of overheating, especially when dogs are running for hours on end in search of birds. Traditional heavy-duty fabric vests can trap heat, causing your dog’s temperature to spike and slowing them down or putting the dog’s health at risk. The remainder of the Rekoile Upland Vest, outside the reinforced chest and belly protector, is crafted entirely from abrasion-resistant Cordura. This tough, yet lightweight fabric protects your dog from scrapes and scratches while moving through thick brush. Unlike heavier protective materials, Cordura strikes the perfect balance between durability and breathability, ensuring that your dog remains cool and agile, even during intense hunts. This design prevents overheating, allowing your dog to perform at its peak without the added weight or discomfort that can come with traditional vests.

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Customized Fit with Four-Point Buckle System and Velcro Shoulder Adjustment

A proper fit is essential to keep the vest snug and in place, especially when a dog is moving at high speeds through difficult terrain. The Rekoile vest uses a four-point adjustable buckle system as well as a velcro shoulder adjustment to offer a fit that can be customized to each dog’s unique shape. The shoulder adjustment controls the area in order to bring the vest closer in the front of the chest and neck.This ensures the vest stays secure without restricting movement, allowing your dog to maneuver comfortably even in tight, dense cover. This buckle design also makes the vest versatile enough to fit a range of breeds and sizes. Unlike one-size-fits-all options, the adjustability means it can be fitted close to your dog’s body, reducing the risk of snagging on branches or catching underfoot. And unlike stretchable fabrics that can loosen over time, Rekoile’s buckle system maintains a consistent fit, hunt after hunt.

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Benefits of Rekoile Vest Over Traditional Fabric Vests

Standard fabric vests can serve a purpose, but they often fall short in challenging upland conditions. Here’s how the Rekoile upland vest stands out in several key ways:

• Durability: Fabric vests are prone to tearing, especially in rough terrain. The Rekoile vest’s more rugged material resists damage from thorns, sticks, and heavy cover.

• Comfort and Cooling: Fabric vests tend to trap heat, whereas the Rekoile’s lightweight design allows air to circulate, reducing the risk of overheating. 

• Visibility: While some fabric vests may include a small reflective patch or strip, the Rekoile’s full blaze orange with reflective accents gives a much higher level of visibility.

• Fit and Stability: Fabric vests often have elastic or loose fits that can slip or twist. The Rekoile’s adjustable buckle system keeps the vest in place, even with the most active dogs.

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A Must-Have Vest for the Upland Hunter

I’ve had the ability to hunt with the Rekoile Upland Vest for a couple months now and I’ve put it through a number of hunts in North Dakota and Michigan. Traveller, being a Boykin Spaniel, is not a big dog so he has been scratching this vest up on everything he can in his quest to flush some birds for me. I am constantly thinking of Traveller’s safety and performance every time we go out. From visibility and heat management to durability and fit, the Rekoile upland vest offers a combination of features that makes it ideal for upland environments. While there are many dog vests on the market, few can claim the same level of balanced functionality.

Investing in the right gear for your hunting dog can mean the difference between a safe, comfortable hunt and an exhausting or even dangerous experience. The Rekoile upland vest provides the peace of mind that your dog is not only protected but also able to perform at their best. With its smart design, enhanced visibility, and comfortable fit, it’s a tool that every upland hunter should consider adding to their kit.

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