Archery season opens here in 4 days! Which means getting the final items prepped for the next couple months. This year I have an archery mule deer draw and then some general hunts for sheep and whitetails that I plan on doing. While gear prep is key and vital for all the hunts I’m planning to do, I find I struggle the most with the clothing side as every part of the season seems to need slight variations because I hate being too hot or too cold. So I tweeted awhile back that, ” I was studying the Cabela’s Fall catalogue like I was planning to rewrite the LSAT“.
I came up with some key elements that I pack or wear when heading out either early season (end of Aug-Oct), in the mountains or late season in November when it can easily be -15 in the blink of an eye.
Early season has cool mornings that can turn to hot afternoons and the key for me is breathable materials and layers. I swear by a merino base or natural fiber t-shirt like bamboo that can wick sweat and minimize odour, something I don’t think the synthetic fabrics can do as well. Also a lightweight, wind resistant pant with a throw over top when it’s cooler in the mornings and evenings. When it comes to boots, a lower profile hiker can prevent feet from overheating and getting blistered. I also use a wicking sock with a lightweight wool hiking sock. Even when it’s a scorching afternoon, dry feet mean cool feet.
Mountain hunts can be quite challenging to get the right combination of gear. You literally have to be prepared for anything, sun, wind, rain or snow. I find the best pants for these type of hunts are a neutral colored fleece lined soft shell pant. Camo isn’t necessary, it’s more of the fit that counts. Having a waterproof gator either built into the pants or seperate that you can throw into your pack are key for crossing creeks and streams. I always have the rule to bring a hoodie and a vest, with a rainjacket for backup. If you’re hiking, a vest will keep your core warm while letting you still be ventilated and cool down. A full jacket is usually just overkill unless you are sitting glassing for long periods of time. Also I always wear a bandana or merino neck buff- it keeps the sun off or keeps you warmer if the weather turns. Plus, you can use it as a headband when you are having those really scary unwashed hunting hair days 🙂
And then comes the greatest test of all- late season whitetails. I know I mentioned before that finding the right “tree stand” system is a science I’m trying to perfect. There are lots of hunting lines that carry “insulated” systems and to be honest they are probably more than enough for cooler weather down south, but just don’t cut it when you are in a tree at -25 Celsius. I’ve tried electric socks/ vests/ heater suits ect. They all make things more comfortable but I find if you don’t have the right pieces over them, it really doesn’t matter. Also most companies don’t realize that their “silent” materials actually begin to sound like you are wearing a tinfoil suit when the thermometer drops. Since don’t use big comfy stands, as we feel it doesn’t offer the flexibility that we like when bow hunting, the safety of getting in and out of the tree when you are half-frozen and it’s dark out, are big concerns for us. So having too much clothing on or big bulky boots can be dangerous.
One of the things I insist on before I head out, Insulated Bibs Pants ideally that have snow camo. For the first few years I borrowed G2’s size large pants. Finally I found King’s Camo offers them in a small. Followed by a wind proof heavy fleece layer and then an insulated, hooded jacket. Gloves that are warm enough yet thin enough to shoot in are key. As for boots- the bulkier the more dangerous for climbing slippery tree pegs, so I have always been happiest with my fleece lined, waterproof Ugg boots- two layers of heavy socks with heater footpads and I’m happy as a clam (for at least 3 hours). Also, finding the right headwear is important- make sure you can hear! I’ve made that mistake in the past and didn’t realize that the buck was right behind me because I never heard him coming…
So take some time and research what you need to get the right apparel so you are comfortable and safe this coming season!
