5 Must-have Gear and Apparel for Hunting
Hunting is a hobby for some and a sport for others. Either way, a good hunter knows just how vital the right apparel can be. Dressing for the hunt can be the difference between success and failure. Besides the functionality you get from the right hunting clothes, it has to be said that they do make you feel amped and ready for action. From camo patterns to layers, we go into hunting clothing to find five types of clothing to make you the complete hunter.
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Layering for Your Hunt
Knowing what layers of clothing to wear is the first thing about dressing for your hunting trip. The key to a comfortable hunt is getting your layers right. You don’t want to be freezing on a cold winter afternoon or on the verge of heat stroke in the sweltering summer sun.
- Base Layer
Start with the base layer, which you wear against the skin. You want thermal mesh underpants that are long enough to cover the whole of your body. With the base layer, you want moisture-wicking clothing that keeps you from sweating. Heavyweight base layers are great for the harsh cold. A merino wool base layer would be great for hunting in the winter.
- Mid Layer
The mid layer is meant to complement the base layer so that it traps heat yet removes moisture. Your middle layers should be the most flexible of your layers. Polyester and merino wool are some of the best fabrics for your mid-layers. You are bound to overheat if you are hunting in the heat. These are the layers to remove when you get too hot. Mid layers can also serve as the outer layer in mild weather, in which case you will need them to be waterproof.
- Outer layer
This is your first defense against the elements and your protective shell. Outer layers are for repelling rain, snow, wind, and whatever else you are likely to encounter out in nature. Get outer layers that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors, like thorny bushes, tree branches, and such. Remember that your outer layers should be easy to pack if you need to carry them in your bag when it gets too hot.
The Complete Apparel Guide for Hunting
Now that we have the layers defined, it’s time we look at the items of clothing you need. Having the right clothes plays a significant role in whether you are comfortable or miserable in your hunt. The right set of hunting clothing will keep you safe and comfortable.
- Blaze Orange for Visibility
Orange blaze is required attire for hunters in some states. Hunting regulations require that you wear a piece of blaze orange clothing that keeps you visible to other hunters when you are in the woods. Have a cap, vest, or gloves in blaze orange worn over your camouflage. While some birds, ducks, and waterfowl may spot the color, you need not worry as it is not visible to deer and big game. Find out the game laws in your state to know what requirements you have to meet as you go for your hunt.
- The Right Type of Shoe
A lot is going on for you when you are out in nature. With suitable clothing, you are almost there. Now you need a comfortable and sturdy pair of boots that can handle the terrain. Comfortable, hardy, and warm shoes are ideal for tracking deer. Italian hunting boots are the go-to for most hunters out there. Find boots with good traction that are waterproof. As you shop for boots, buy a pair that matches the neutral colors on your hunting clothing. Complement these with warm, calf-length socks that protect your legs from chafing.
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- Gloves
A good pair of gloves is a must-have. Cold weather requires you to wear heavy gloves, while a lighter kind works fine for hunts in the summer. Be sure to get comfortable gloves that let you pull the trigger freely. You also want these in a sturdy fabric that can handle the elements and still hold their form.
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- Headgear
Get two items of headgear as you go out hunting. A peaked cap is excellent for protecting your eyes against direct sunlight. A merino wool beanie is essential when you are hunting in cold weather. With suitable headgear, you protect yourself from the elements to keep your hunt enjoyable and also stay visible.
- Camouflage
Putting your camo on is one of the most exciting parts of the hunt. There is a wide array of camouflage patterns to help you blend in when hunting in different environments. The two main types of camouflage to consider when shopping for camouflage jackets, pants, gloves, and caps are mimicry and breakup camouflage.
Mimicry camouflage is meant to mimic your surroundings. The patterns often have bark, leaves, and other elements of nature that match different types of topography. Breakup camouflage, however, serves to break up your outline using colors and shapes not typically found in nature.
Choosing the correct type of camouflage is not only about the environment you are in but also the type of game you are hunting. Deer, for instance, need you to break your outline, while fowl and birds would need you to mimic your surroundings as best as possible.
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Conclusion
Hunting can be a lot of fun when you have the right gear. Coming up with a complete set of gear may be hard, but not when you have guides like these to get you started. The best thing about assembling your hunting gear is its versatility. With the right mix of gear, you can always switch things up to suit your type of hunting expedition. Get the right clothing for your hunt so that you can stay out longer.
