Hunting in extreme cold weather is a different adventure altogether. Though it is freezing outside, the winter season offers great hunting opportunities.
After all, there is nothing more rewarding than taking that big buck home after a great hunting expedition. But before you head out in bone-chilling winter, take extra precautions to make yourself warm and comfortable. Because other than keeping an eye on the prey, you must also keep your health in check.
Protecting yourself from the cold is essential to have a better chance of killing the prey. Continue reading the blog to get some tips and tricks to stay warm while hunting in cold weather.
Best Base Layer for Hunting in Extreme Cold Weather
Now, let’s talk about what is the most important base layer for extreme cold? But first, we will get to know what exactly is the base layer.
A base layer is just like a “second skin,” which provides an extra layer of clothing to keep you warm. The base layer material needs to have the following characteristics:
- It needs to be comfortable against your skin.
- The fabric must not cause itching.
- It should prevent clothes from stinking.
- The cloth should absorb sweat or moisture from the skin.
The base layer which fit all the above-mentioned qualities are Merino wool base layers, synthetic base coats, bamboo underlays, and silk base layers. These fabrics are soft to feel and keep you warm and comfortable for long.
How to stay warm while hunting in cold weather?
1. Layering is the key
Whenever you step out of your door to go hunting, you need to remember the first and foremost things to do is to layer up. You need to start with a base layer that absorbs all the sweat and moisture from your skin. Then comes the middle layer, which helps preserve your body heat. And then the outer layer to protect you from the biting cold wind.
- Load Up on Carbs
For people preparing or considering going on a hunting expedition, you must remember to consume carbs and protein-rich food. This includes oatmeal, bread, fruits, vegetables, nuts, etc. Including such food in your diet keeps you full for longer and warm while hunting in the forest.
3. Keep a Hot Beverage with You
When it comes to keeping your insides warm, have some hot beverages with you to take a sip all day long while hunting your prey. Keep a flask filled with beverages (tea or coffee) to survive the extreme cold weather. You must also have a hot water bottle with you to avoid dehydration.
4. Choose Appropriate Footwears
A sturdy and comfortable boot is a must while planning a hunting trip. Most hunters prefer wearing rubber boots as they are water-resistant and have insulation to trap heat which keeps your feet warm. Make sure you wear the boots with socks to get to know their fit. Also, do not forget to carry extra socks on the hunting trip.
5. Cover Your Neck and Head
The neck and head are the areas where if left loose, can release most of the body heat, which leaves you feeling cold. Therefore, you must protect your head with a hat or cap. You can use a turtleneck or wrap a scarf to prevent yourself from the cold weather.
6. Do Not Wear Cotton Clothes
While layering clothes for your hunting trip, ensure that no piece of cloth is of cotton fabric. Never ever wear cotton clothes because once it gets wet, it loses their insulating properties hence, leaving you feeling cold. Therefore, it is best to invest in good-quality clothes to keep you warm throughout the hunting expedition.
7. Stretch Your Body
The blood flows very slowly after you have been sitting for quite a while to catch your prey. So, to increase blood circulation, you need to get up and stretch your body properly. This will also generate more body heat hence, making you feel warm.
8. Do Not Sweat
Sweat produces moisture, and moisture makes you feel cold. It will be a disadvantage to you if you sweat during your hunting trip. Hence. Take precautions to avoid sweating, or you will be cold and uncomfortable throughout the journey. If you are walking or hiking to a suitable place, remove a few layers of clothes to let some air pass through.
Conclusion
Hunting is exciting and gives you a thrill like no other. Although it is a bit dangerous, the adrenaline rush is real. Dressing for hunting during cold weather is a bit of a task. It would be best to be prepared before stepping out for your expedition. If you are planning winter hunting, you need to stay safe and warm. Therefore, keep the above-mentioned points in mind to be at the top of your game. Do not let anything stop you from going on a hunt and getting that big buck home.