Hunting deer in cold weather is an arduous experience no self-respecting hunter would desire to go through again.
On the one hand, you want to proceed with maximum discretion to get as close to your game as possible before blowing your cover. While on the other hand, the biting cold won’t let you concentrate on the demanding task.
You probably already know that putting on the right gear can tremendously improve your chances of nailing deer in cold weather. But the million-dollar question is – what constitutes the right deer hunting gear? Well, that question shall be the focus of this post.
Read on as we uncover the suitable clothing to wear while hunting deer in cold weather.
- Start With the Right Boots
Most of the body’s temperature receptors are on the hands and feet. So, if your feet feel cold, it’s almost certain that your entire body will be cold too.
Cold weather has a way of impairing your concentration. It can easily make you lose track of prey in plain sight, suddenly turning the tables against your favor.
It’s tempting to buy the cheapest hunting boots, especially if you’re an occasional hunter. However, experts recommend insisting on high-quality hunting boots if you wish to make the most of your trip hunting deer in cold weather.
When shopping for cold weather hunting boots, the first consideration should be insulation. Opt for boots designed with plenty of insulation, preferably 800 to 1000 grams.
Comfort is another crucial requirement when looking for cold weather hunting boots. Consider boots that are one size up from your usual street shoes. The extra size allowance prevents undue friction by offering your feet extra breathing space. It reduces impact if you knock your feet on rocks and debris during your hunting expedition.
Last, the best cold weather deer hunting boots should have maximum traction treads. This will help you navigate slippery grounds and muddy or snowy landscapes. That’s if you have to chase after your prey actively.
- Select the Right Clothing Too
The significance of shopping for high-quality cold weather deer hunting gear cannot be emphasized enough. Perhaps what’s worth stressing is that cold weather hunting gear doesn’t only entail boots. It also includes suitable clothing.
Right off the bat, it’s essential to highlight the importance of choosing incredibly camouflaged clothing. Such clothes offer maximum leverage by allowing you to get as close to the deer as possible without blowing your cover.
Perfectly camouflaged clothing is designed in jungle-friendly colors, such as jungle green and navy blue. These clothes are remarkable at helping you stalk your prey within close range. They are also easier to wash due to their dirt-masking ability.
In addition to choosing clothing that provides camouflage, it’s also essential to consider the material the clothes are made of. Remember that the fundamental goal is to stay warm and dry while hunting deer in cold weather.
Wool is arguably the best fabric material for winter weather. The material provides natural insulation and moisture-wicking properties, a combination that any hunter requires to brave the chilly outdoor weather. However, woolen fabrics have some drawbacks to contend with. Most notably, such fabrics tend to be exorbitantly expensive. You should consider other materials if you’re an occasional hunter who won’t be hitting the woods every other week. Wool is also easily distorted, which may negatively affect its overall longevity. Besides, woolen fabrics tend to stain easily due to their high absorbency. While staining isn’t an immediate concern while hunting deer in cold weather, it can increase the overall maintenance cost of your woolen fabric.
Another strategy to consider, as far as choosing the right cold weather deer hunting clothing is concerned, is to wear multiple layers of clothes. The logic here is straightforward – the additional clothing helps keep you warmer. However, ensure that the innermost layer is made of the softest material, such as cotton. Softness translates to enhanced comfort.
Since cotton is also remarkably breathable and absorbent, wearing the innermost clothing layer from this material can reduce skin irritation. This can provide extra leverage by ensuring you keep still even when you’re stalking deer within close range.
- Other Considerations
There are a few other considerations to bear in mind if seeking to stay warm hunting deer in cold weather.
For starters, ensure you’re putting on warm instead of heavy gear. This applies to both clothes and boots. Heavy gear only impedes your progress by tiring you down. The last thing you want is to have your energy drained while hunting one of the fastest land animals on the planet.
Secondly, remember to carry hot snacks. A cup of hot coffee can go a long way in fighting the numbness of the chilly outdoor weather. Besides, coffee’s mentally stimulating effects can help keep you focused on your game.
Most importantly, know when it’s time to quit. Despite your best efforts, winter’s biting cold can have the better of you, making it impossible to proceed with the hunt.
Wrap Up
Cold weather can easily have you cut your deer hunting trip short. But it needs not to. Not when there are many fantastic tips to implement to make every hunting expedition successful.
Remember to shop for your cold weather deer hunting gear from reputable outdoor equipment suppliers. You might also consider signing up for an outdoor subscription service, especially if you’re a regular hunter.
