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Tips and Tricks to Selecting the Proper Outdoor Gear

Posted by Amber Elle on Jun 9th 2023

One of the most fundamental yet overwhelming parts of an endeavor, for me, is always the gear. I love a good kit of industrious tools, clothing, and the tools of the trade. I’m always seeking to discover what the wisest in their field are using, and more importantly why they’re using it. This has been the way of the learner since the earliest civilizations: glean, instill, distill, improvise when needed. Hunting has always been no different for me. Even as a little girl, I wanted to see which Benelli the gentleman next to me in the duck blind was shooting that day. I inquired as to which socks a kind lady at the deer camp was wearing on a freezing day as she cleaned her fresh harvest and boasted that her feet had been toasty warm even in the icy temperatures. My inquisitive nature could have been perceived as a materialistic mentality, but for those who were wise in their work, they knew why my questions had found their way into our conversation-not for the sake of comparison but for competency.

Where To Shop

The age of technology has placed industry professionals (and amateurs) alike on display right at the tip of our thumbs. A parade of brands and opinions are only a click away, and where standards used to be maintained only by a few brand leaders, we now have more access than ever before to quality products from a multitude of places.

As a team here at Fieldcraft, we come in a variety of genders, shapes, sizes and hunt in a wide array of terrain and geographical locations. As we began to dive deeper into the hunting world, expanding- and in some cases even developing our own paths as wildlife connoisseurs we needed to find a place where we could partner with industry leaders while still maintaining access to multiple variations of quality gear to meet all of our needs. We scoured the internet seeking the warmest insulated boots, the quietest outer layers , the most durable pants, the most industrious day packs, the most efficient meat bags, the lightest spotting scope stand, the best moisture wicking socks, and beyond. Variety and quality were both equally necessary and we found many of our high performance solutions through Black Ovis’s online catalog.

Shopping from a one stop shop for high performance hunting gear can offer several advantages for hunters. It’s hard to beat convenience: a warehouse style shopping experience, even when done online, allows you to purchase everything you need for your hunt in one place, which can save you time and effort. You can avoid having to search for multiple stores or websites to find everything you need. Companies like Black Ovis are also capable of employing knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right gear for your needs. They can provide advice on everything from clothing and footwear to hunting accessories and equipment. Quality is another huge benefit, and a company that is known to carry a range of high-quality products from reputable brands makes the gear acquisition that much more enjoyable. You want to be able to trust that the gear you purchase will be durable, reliable, and perform well in the field. Black Ovis’s sister company, Camofire are big proponents of cost savings. They’re able to offer discounts and promotions with the big name companies, helping you to save money in the long run. Additionally, they may offer free shipping or other perks that can help you save on the overall cost of your gear. The biggest benefit that we were seeking as a company, was a wide selection: One stop shops for hunting gear often carry a wide selection of products, including gear for different types of hunting, different seasons, and different terrains. This means you can find everything you need for your hunt in one place, without having to compromise on quality or selection. It was a smart choice for our hunting team as we were looking to gear up for our hunts.

How To Dress

Like I mentioned earlier, our hunting team lives in multiple places around the USA, so our gear selection needs to be versatile and adaptable to different hunting environments and weather conditions. As a natural progression within our planning, we found it easiest to create a template for dressing for success in the field that we could apply to our planning and our supply procurement.

When hunting in cold weather, it is important to layer your clothing properly to keep warm and comfortable. Here is a general guideline on how to layer clothes when hunting in the cold:

  1. Base layer: The base layer is the first layer of clothing you put on. It should be made of moisture-wicking material, such as wool or synthetic fabrics, to keep sweat away from your skin. This layer should fit snugly but not be too tight.
  2. Mid-layer: The mid-layer provides insulation and should be made of a material that traps warm air close to your body, such as fleece, down, or synthetic insulation. This layer should fit comfortably over your base layer.
  3. Outer layer: The outer layer should be windproof, waterproof, and breathable to protect you from the elements. It should also be durable and able to withstand rough terrain. A good option for hunting is a jacket or coat made of a material like Gore-Tex or other breathable and waterproof fabrics.
  4. Accessories: Don't forget to layer your accessories, such as gloves, hats, scarves, and socks. Choose materials that are warm, moisture-wicking, and breathable to keep your extremities warm and dry.

When layering, it is important to remember to dress in a way that allows you to adjust your clothing as needed. If you get too warm, you can remove a layer or two, and if you get too cold, you can add another layer. Proper layering will help you stay comfortable and focused during your hunting trip, even in the coldest weather.

Hunting in warm weather requires a different approach to dressing than hunting in cold weather. Here are some tips on how to dress for hunting in warm weather:

  1. Choose lightweight and breathable materials: Look for hunting clothing made of lightweight and breathable materials such as polyester, nylon, or mesh. These materials will allow air to circulate and keep you cool.
  2. Wear moisture-wicking clothing: Moisture-wicking fabrics are designed to pull sweat away from your body, which will help keep you cool and dry. Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to absorb sweat and can become heavy and uncomfortable.
  3. Dress in layers: Even though it is warm outside, it is still important to layer your clothing. Layering will allow you to adjust your clothing as the temperature changes throughout the day. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, then add a lightweight shirt, and finish with a lightweight jacket or vest.
  4. Protect yourself from the sun: Hunting in warm weather means spending more time in the sun. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun, and use sunscreen on any exposed skin.
  5. Choose light colors: Dark colors tend to absorb heat, while light colors reflect it. Choose light-colored clothing to help keep you cool.
  6. Wear comfortable and supportive footwear: Look for lightweight and breathable hunting boots that provide good support and traction on uneven terrain.

Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. By following these tips, you can stay comfortable and focused during your hunt, even in the warmest weather.

Footwear

The type of footwear you wear when hunting will depend on the type of hunting you plan to do and the terrain you will be hunting in. Here are some general tips for choosing the right footwear for hunting:

  1. Look for supportive and comfortable footwear: You will likely be spending a lot of time on your feet, so it's important to choose footwear that is comfortable and provides good support.
  2. Consider the terrain: The type of terrain you will be hunting in will also influence the type of footwear you choose. If you will be hunting in rugged terrain, you may want to choose boots with good ankle support and traction. If you will be hunting in wet or muddy conditions, look for waterproof or water-resistant boots.
  3. Choose boots that blend in with your surroundings: When hunting, it's important to remain as inconspicuous as possible. Choose boots that blend in with your surroundings to avoid standing out and potentially spooking your prey.
  4. Choose boots that are quiet: When walking through the woods, you don't want to make a lot of noise that could scare away your prey. Look for boots that are designed to be quiet when walking on leaves, twigs, and other debris.
  5. Consider insulation: If you will be hunting in cold weather, look for insulated boots that will keep your feet warm and dry. If you will be hunting in warm weather, look for lightweight and breathable boots that will keep your feet cool.

Overall, the key is to choose footwear that is comfortable, supportive, and appropriate for the type of hunting you plan to do. Be sure to break in your boots before your hunt to avoid blisters and other foot-related issues.

All in all, choosing the right hunting gear is essential to having a successful and enjoyable hunting experience. When selecting your gear, consider the type of hunting you plan to do, the environment you will be in, and the weather conditions you may encounter. Look for high-quality, durable, and reliable gear from reputable brands, and don't be afraid to invest in gear that will serve you well for many hunting seasons to come. Remember, preparation is key to a successful hunt, and having the right gear can make all the difference in your comfort and safety while in the field. By following these tips and taking the time to carefully select your hunting gear, you'll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling hunting season. Check out Black Ovis and Camofire to check out their selection of high quality equipment for your next hunting trip. Our entire team here at Fieldcraft was well supplied during our last hunting season, and that was in big part to the ease of access and selection that we found in their online offerings. Tell em’ Fieldcraft sent you!

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