Hunting - What to Wear

Hunting - What To Wear  

Hunting Clothes—I think back to when the only options for hunting clothing were blue jeans, military pants, and flannel shirts. During the winter months, I would wear WWII wool pants. Although cumbersome, wool pants are still a good option for cold weather.

The downside to modern military pants and blue jeans is that they’re made of slow-drying cotton, and the 501 jeans did not have room for thermal underwear. The development of today's synthetic fabrics is a welcome change.

For me, today’s modern hunting clothing is more about how they fit and the material they are made of rather than the actual camouflage color or pattern. Hunting clothing should have a comfortable loose fit, allowing room for cold weather under layering and the ability to breathe and fast drying. 

In 2011, Sitka generously sent us clothing and day packs for a month-long hunt in the Northern Brooks Range of Alaska. My first thought was how light they were, and then I thought I would freeze! I couldn’t have been more wrong!

In truth, I can only attest to what I know of the Sitka brand 

After nearly 14 years of extreme use, I have yet to derail a zipper or wear a hole through the jackets, shirts, or pants. From experience, they are tough as nails, giving me no reason to look any further. Over the years, I have added to my Sitka collection for warmer weather or because I want more of a specific pattern or everyday wear in solid-color pants or shirts.  

As far as color and camouflage pattern, I would say I can't complain. I have seen deer, elk, caribou, moose, and countless other game, all looking right at me, seemingly beyond me. All I know is that they couldn't make me out as long as I didn’t move!

All-season hunting wear - I have settled into my typical clothing for hunts from early Spring to December. Below is the list of Sitka clothing we wear from the Southern Rockies to Alaska during all seasons. 

Southern Rockies - Archery Season - September

This time of year can be extremely hot. I have hunted in daytime temperatures from the 30s to  90s. With the weather changing constantly, being prepared is essential. Remember that upper elevations may have their own weather pattern and can drastically differ from a local lower elevation forecast.

Alaska  - September

Alaska is usually very rainy during September, from a constant drizzle, to downpour to an all-day drizzle. So, we find ourselves with even more extra rain gear on top of the typical Sitka rain jacket. 

We will also have gaiters, rain pants, and poncho. The poncho comes in extremely handy when float hunting for sitting in camp. When on a raft and rowing, you quickly find that the rain jacket doesn’t entirely cover your front mid-section or the seat portion, so rain will run down both sides, soaking areas you’d prefer dry. 

As mentioned in a previous blog, hip boots, versus waist-high or chest-high waders are the boots of choice simply because your midsection doesn’t comfortably breathe.  

In the northern portion of the state in late September, you may find yourself in cold, rainy, or snow conditions. Prepare just like you would during November rifle season, less the heavy coat.

Southern Rockies - Early Rifle Season - October 

October rifle season can be frigid and snowy. Although this year (2024) is hot, t-shirt weather, early morning temperatures will be in the mid-to-lower 30s but can reach well into the 70s. With the unpredictable change in weather, a person must be prepared for cold rain and possibly snow. Keep an eye on the weather forecast. I suggest having warmer clothing just in case. The higher elevations may have a different weather plan.

Southern Rockies - Late Season Rifle - November

Late-season hunting usually means snow in the high country, with sub-freezing temperatures that can reach -10 or lower, so again, be prepared.

The difference here is that we will likely leave camp in the early morning—well before the sun rises—so yes, it will be extremely cold. Like all other seasons, layering is the key here. So warm, heavy clothing is not fun but necessary. 

Southern Rockies -  November to December, Cold Weather

As you can see from the list, cold-weather hunting is the most challenging. From staying warm to all the extra clothing you must put in your pack when it warms up. Not to mention the extra weight you need to carry. But with the cold sunrise and prime hunting sunset, you clearly understand why you have the extra warm-weather gear. 

Here are a few tips for staying warm

Fire: Personally, I never make a fire unless I'm in an extreme life-or-death situation. For this, I have my fire starter just in case. For hunting, I try to avoid smoke on me or around me at all costs.

Hunter's Tarp. Using the Hunter's Tarp Colorado, I can build a small shelter under a pine tree. For two or three hunters, the extra space of the Hunter's Tarp Montana will serve them well.

Both are great for shelter or space blankets. 

Melting snow or rain can quickly stop your hunt because you are wet and cold. Using the smaller Colorado Tarp, with my rain jacket on, I’ll lay the tarp over my legs and tuck the upper section under my raincoat, preventing wind and snow from penetrating directly into the fabric of my pants.       

Layering 

Whatever camouflage clothing you use, layering is key to staying warm and cool in all-weather conditions. Wearing the right synthetic clothing is critical for breathability and comfort. Add some convenient design options, and you have a set of clothes that may last you a lifetime, not to mention the ability to keep you hunting from sunrise to sunset.

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