In hunting, clothes play important roles in keeping hunters warm and dry in different weather conditions. But even though clothes are necessary components of hunting, there are some clothing pieces a hunter should own because they make a significant addition to the hunt. These pieces are what we call the hunter’s most important items of clothing. In this guide, you get to learn about caring for hunting clothes and why they are necessary.
How Do I Know What is the Hunter’s Most Important Item of Clothing?
Various things determine the importance of your hunting outfits, from their thickness, comfort, durability, longevity, and many more. However, two specific factors determine the importance of your piece when you go on a hunting trip. These factors play a functional role in keeping you comfortable, warm, dry, and safe during hunting. The first factor to consider is the heavy insulating layers.
Every clothing piece made for hunting should come with the right insulating layers to keep warm and comfortable in any weather condition. There are two types of insulation that outfits may come with, down insulation and synthetic insulation.
Fabrics with down insulation are usually lightweight but are great protective layers in harsh weather. However, one shortcoming of this fabric type is that it becomes weak when it touches water. This renders it useless. You could use hydrophobic treatment to make it withstand moisture, but this treatment will not make it waterproof, especially when subjected to much water.
On the other hand, synthetic insulations though compact and able to withstand tough weather conditions, are completely reliable. When moist, they do not soak nor lose their heating properties easily. Another thing that determines the importance of your hunting gear is its ability to serve in swampy environments. If it can, then it is important for hunting.
The Most Important Items of Clothing
Hunting demands several working gears. However, there are certain items of clothing that hunters must possess. It is because they ensure a successful and safe sporting activity. Most people think that some of these apparel only serve for added beauty and class. But, every pheasant hunting clothing not only makes hunters look good but also ensures their comfort and safety. Hunters should take along an extra of each item in case the first one gets wet. Some of the most important clothing pieces for every hunter include:
1. Hunting Boots
Of all clothing items for hunting, the boots are the most important. This is because the feet are prone to cold weather conditions, and even overheated temperature can ruin the hunting trip. Hunting footwears needs to be sturdy to suit any weather condition you may encounter. It also helps you to walk comfortably to your destination.
The right hunting boots will fit accurately without rubbing on both feet. On the other hand, the wrong type of footwear will make it tough to stand, sit and even walk when waiting for the game. So, in cold weather, go for insulated boots as they will keep the feet warm, while in warm weather, a pair of breathable shoes keep your feet cool.
That’s not all. One thing to look out for in hunting boots is the thick rubber soles. They provide traction on muddy surfaces and slippery rocks while keeping the feet warm on a trail. Also, you would want to consider getting waterproof footwear, especially when hunting in swampy areas. A good example of a boot with these properties is the leather boot. It is sturdy, naturally waterproof, and can serve in any weather condition.
2. Orange Hats
Also, an important piece of clothing is the orange headcover or Hat. The hunt clothes cover any scent or odor that may be caused by excessive sweating on the head and hair. It also absorbs facial oil leaving you with an advantage when hunting.
3. Hunting Socks
As much as the hats and footwear are important, so also is a good pair of thick hunting socks. Like the boots, a thick sock keeps the feet comfortable in hunting trips and protected in different weather conditions. It also prevents the foot from rubbing on the sides of the boots to avoid blisters from forming. A good pair of thick hunting socks also keep the feet odorless and warm.
When choosing your thick socks, go for one made from a polyester material as it dries faster when wet and does not retain odor, most especially when moist. Polyester fabric will have its interior layer made from polypropylene and wool as the outer layer. However, make sure to avoid those made from cotton as they are uncomfortable and retain odor, which can deter the prey.
4. Pants
A pair of fitting but large, long, functional, and comfortable pants work wonders for every hunter. It is because they ensure safety from dangers on the route and protect against harsh weather conditions. However, you would want to avoid any pants made from denim. Jean materials get easily drenched because they are not waterproof and dry slowly. Moreover, the blue color of denim makes it easy for the pray to spot your location, and you would not want this. Instead of jeans, you should opt for waterproof pants that are safe and ensures easy movement.
5. Hunting Jackets, Shirts, or Vest
Another important item of clothing a hunter should own is a jacket, shirt, or vest. Although most people use jackets in cold weather, it also serves as a protective shield from harsh elements like bad weather and injury. The long sleeves on the jacket prevent any scratches on the arm while keeping you warm. However, not all colors work well for hunting jackets as they can frighten the prey. For the best outcome, you would want to go for a bright orange color called bunter orange, which is endorsed by almost all states.
Hunting vests come are made from different fabrics. But, not all these fabrics work for every environment. It is best to opt for one that conveniently suits the environment. An insulated jacket is most times waterproof and keeps you warm in cold temperatures. On the other hand, thinner jackets are only suitable for a low or cramped space setting to ensure free movement. Most hunting jackets also come with a removable sleeve and pockets to help you work easily. So, when choosing your hunting vest, it is important to go for hunting outfits that keep you warm and enables ease of movement.
6. Hunting Gloves
When hunting, one can easily nick cut or develop blisters on the hands. The best way to avoid this is by getting a functional and good pair of gloves. There are various types of gloves in the market. Some are insulated to keep you free of cold. These gloves are usually intended to cover every part and length of the hand. Moreover, the insulated gloves come with textured palms that give it firmness and helps to improve your hold.
Another type of glove is that with knuckle guards, which protects your palms from injury. However, this type of glove is usually expensive. In warm weather or a season where you need to work on complex projects, the fingerless hunting gloves work exceptionally. Apart from this, most hunters tend to improvise using a mitten when there is no actual hunting glove. It is also perfect for your hunting trip as it works effectively as a glove.
FAQs
What is the best hunting boot?
The best hunting boots have thick rubber soles that provide traction for muddy and slippery surfaces. It is also heavily insulated to keep you warm and can work well in marshy areas.
How effective are gloves?
Gloves keep you free from hurting your hands and also work to cover your scent. It also helps you grip items firmly without fear of injury.
Is the headcover the only important item of clothing for hunting?
In hunting, the headcover is important because it helps cover up the scent from the head, hair, and facial oil. However, it is not the only important piece of clothing. There is also the jacket, socks, gloves, pants, and most of all, footwear. All these items are important pieces of clothing for hunters.
Can I wear jeans to hunt?
No, Jeans do not give you the required comfort and space needed for hunting. They are not waterproof and can easily get wet. Even the blue color of the jeans makes it easy for the prey to spot your location. So, it is not advisable to wear jeans on a hunt.
Conclusion
Every clothing item is among the hunter’s most important clothing items because they all serve different purposes that are beneficial to their hunt. But of all, the most important are the hunting boots, socks, gloves, hats, vest, and pants. These items provide warmth when wet.
