Traditional hunting camouflage involves a variety of "natural" patterns: weeds, branches, river bottoms, conifers, bark… In fact, there's almost no limit to the range of patterns available. Inspired by military camouflage, these camo patterns often combine several textures in order to "erase" a hunter's silhouette. But the overall hue and texture of the camo pattern have to be adapted to the targeted game and the time of year.
Some camouflage patterns have greater depth, with varying degrees of detail and a play of perspectives. A good camouflage is one that breaks up the wearer's silhouette, both in two and three dimensions. Some designs also include shading to add to the realistic look. These types of hunting camouflage are called "multidimensional." They have a simple purpose: to blur the outlines of the human form as much as possible.
On the market, there is a wide range of leaf camouflage, tree camouflage and other "photorealistic" patterns designed to reflect hunters' environments as accurately as possible. This well-proven type of camouflage is actually the most commonly used today.
Some traditional camouflage patterns combine both vertical and horizontal elements. Others feature a mainly vertical or horizontal flow. Here again, the choice of one or the other depends on the hunting environment, targeted species, etc. Some camouflage patterns are very versatile , while others are more specific to a particular environment or time of the year .
Digital hunting camouflage is more abstract than traditional camouflage, but it has the same purpose: breaking up your silhouette to help you blend into the environment – this time with a pixelated matrix.
Inspired by the military camouflage used by certain armed forces, pixelated camouflage is effective at both long and short distances. An increasingly popular choice among hunting enthusiasts, this type of camo blends shapes so that animals can perceive textures but not distinguish the outlines of a hunter's body. The idea, quite simply, is to avoid being perceived as a threat by the game you're targeting. If an animal notices your presence, it should not be able to identify you easily.
Digital camouflage also plays on colour, combining lighter tones with darker ones. This helps break up the human form and its symmetry even better.
Like traditional camouflage, pixelated camouflage comes in many different versions, depending on the species being hunted, the environment, etc. For example, you can find digital camouflage apparel for moose hunting and wild turkey hunting. Just like "classic" camouflage, digital camouflage is effective at different distances, although each pattern generally has an optimal distance.
Whatever your preference between traditional camouflage and digital camo, the key is to adapt the pattern and hue to the game you're hunting and its environment. Not all species have the same eyesight or colour perception. Your clothing has to blend in with your surroundings.
All in all, it is a draw between traditional camouflage and pixelated camouflage; both alternatives are equally good. To find out which patterns best suit your hunting style, do not hesitate to come and see us in store. That's what our specialists are here for!