Cold weather is challenging for humans and can bring undesired effects. Yet, preparing to face the conditions in winter will save you from unwanted difficulties. How you will handle the temperatures when hunting should be your priority since you will be hunting for animals not affected by freezing conditions. You need to have a great plan to ensure that you are warm and can hunt effectively in winter.

When it is freezing outside, you must be aware of the clothes to put on to combat the cold. The most crucial aspect is a base layer since it touches your skin. When you have a good base layer, you will regulate your body’s heat and be more focused. Except, you will need to know how to choose the perfect base layer for hunting in winter, especially when you are starting. This article describes some essential aspects of an excellent base layer for winter hunting.

Weight and Durability of the Fabric

Your fabric’s weight will determine the thickness of the base layer and how warm you will be. Typically, clothing manufacturers use fabric density to indicate the weight of the base layers. This weight is usually measured in g/m2. Ensure you pay enough attention to the weight since the best base layer for hunting is heavy. Heavier layers are warmer and more durable.

It is also best to know the layers that apply to different conditions. For instance, featherweight and lightweight base layers are suitable for hot and warm temperatures. A middleweight base is appropriate for cool temperatures, while a light heavyweight is best for cold temperatures. Finally, a heavyweight base with a density of 320-400 g/m2 is best suited for freezing temperatures. So, go for the heavyweight base layer when hunting in very low temperatures.

Material

Base layers are made with different materials. Some are better than others, but that depends on the activity level. Below are the different materials options you have for a base layer.

·   Synthetic – This is a common material type from polyester or a polyester blend. The good thing about the material is that it is inexpensive yet durable. It dries fast, and it is lightweight, and thus not very suitable for going out to hunt during summer.

·   Merino wool – This is another common base layer usually made from gentle wool that does not irritate the skin. It is an excellent way of regulating your body’s temperature, so it is a perfect fit for hunting in winter. The downside is that it can be slower to dry in certain instances.

·   Silk – The material is not as common as merino wool or polyester. It is super soft and great if you easily get irritated by other fabrics. It is lightweight but will not keep the stink away.

Comfort and Warmth

Hunting for long periods requires that you are warm and comfortable throughout the experience. You will need a base layer with good insulation to get the best warmth and comfort. This will ensure that you hunt for extended periods in the cold. Also, ensure that the base you settle on allows free movement, making you comfortable. Lastly, you should ensure that the base layer matches the hunting environment.

Heat and Moisture Control

Your body produces heat, and the clothing you wear traps the heat to ensure that you are warm. The clothing does not create any heat. Sweat can also be trapped and combined with heat. This will make you will feel very uncomfortable.

You need a base layer that keeps the heat and absorbs the sweat. This will help you remain dry when you are hunting. It is more about breathability, an essential aspect of your hunting wear. In addition, heat control is subject to the tightness of your base layer.

Scent Control and Antimicrobial Features

You expect to sweat when hunting since it is a physical activity. In most cases, you will have layered clothing when hunting in winter. That means your sweat will not go anywhere, which means there will be microbes and other odor-causing bacteria. As such, you might start giving off an unhygienic smell and quickly alert your game when you draw closer.

It would be best to settle for layers made from naturally antimicrobial materials. These materials include x-static nylon thread, a material coated with merino wool or a layer of silver.

Maintenance and Cleaning

It is very crucial to be able to clean and maintain your base layer easily. You will find that the most expensive base layers are the easiest to clean. Always go for base layers that are resistant to stains and dry faster. Base layers with microbial properties are also easy to clean due to how they are made.

Wrapping Up

Hunting in winter can be fun, but you need to go prepared. On top of the hunting gear, you must wear clothing to keep you warm yet dry when you sweat. At the same time, you must be comfortable in what you wear to have an easy time hunting. The above tips will guide you when you pick your next hunting base layer. Keep them in mind and ensure you are safe and comfortable and enjoy your hunting.