Hunting is an exciting activity that’s very popular in Australia. Besides having the basics like a rifle, proper clothing, protection, food and water, the right clothing essentials will make your adventure much easier. These small but crucial items can make a big difference in your comfort level and the hunt’s final result.
Hunting Hats
Wearing a hat on your hunting adventure is very important. It’s a piece of equipment that will protect your head and your eyes from harmful UV rays and make your hunt more successful. It’s also a piece that will help you with camouflage and make sure you’re comfortable during the long waiting hours. Having a practical, high-quality hunting hat can be a game changer.
There are several types of hats you can choose from. They all have their pros and cons and are made for specific weather conditions. Baseball caps are very casual and often come with an adjustable strap. Bucket hats are wide-brimmed and made of lightweight materials. Trapper hats are made of thicker fabrics and have ear flaps for more ear protection and insulation.
Tactical hats have military-style features and can sometimes have pockets and patches as storage. If you need more sun protection, invest in wide-brim models. They’re often waterproof so you won’t have to worry about rain getting in your eyes. Camo hats are very popular because of the camouflage design that allows you to blend into your surroundings.
Some of the most common materials are cotton, polyester, wool and blends. All of them are durable and comfortable, no matter the design. If you’re hunting during the rainy season, choose a hat with water-resistant properties so your head will stay dry. Breathability is a must. Look for mesh panels on the inside that will wick away moisture. Insulation is something you might need if you’re hunting in colder weather.
Camouflage patterns are handy for concealing you from the animal’s eyes. An adjustable fit featuring straps and elastic bands is a practical addition that will make you feel more comfortable.
Before buying the hat, think about the weather conditions, your camouflage needs, functionality, fit and comfort. The hat shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. Otherwise, it will interfere with your aim and hunting success.
Hunting Gloves
Wearing gloves during your hunting trip is not just for colder weather. Gloves are also a good way of protecting your hands from cuts, bruises, thorns and insects. The wilderness is filled with these small things that can cause injuries.
The first thing to look for in a glove is their performance and practicality. You shouldn’t struggle with the gloves; they should slip on and off easily. Side loops are the perfect feature for this.
Because you’ll be handling rifles, knives or other hunting equipment, you need gloves with a good grip. The best materials for this are sheepskin leather and silicone gripping on the palms.
Some gloves have extra features like hidden magnets that will let you uncover your fingers and thumb faster so you can handle the weapons better. Extended cuffs are also practical when you want that extra warmth. And if you interact with a digital device, touch-screen compatibility will be of great help. You won’t have to take them on and off each time you handle the GPS or phone.
Just like with the hunting hat, invest in gloves made of high-quality, insulating materials such as microfibre, merino wool, goat leather, fleece or synthetic down. They’ll keep you warm, cosy and comfortable. Stay away from stiff gloves. They won’t give you any flexibility and will limit your movements, which is not something you want.
Gaiters
The wilderness is filled with all sorts of animals. Some of them are harmless and sweet, but some are scary and dangerous. Snakes fall in the second category. They can be pretty dangerous, especially here in Australia. That’s why you need snake gaiters. They’re like modern armour that prevents the snake’s fangs from piercing through your skin and injecting the venom.
They are useful not just for hunting but also for trekking and backyard duties. They can be made of nylon, oxford fabric, polypropylene or leather. Their protection level is measured in Denier levels. The higher the number, the better the protection. Anything between 600-1000D is good. Always check if the gaiters are waterproof, breathable and comfortable.
Gaiters can have different sizes. Their length usually varies between 30 and 40cm. This means you get protection from your ankles to your knees or just below them. They can also vary in circumference. Some of them are adjustable so they’re easier to fit. They should also be lightweight so you won’t have trouble moving around.
Go for camouflage fabrics that blend nicely with the surrounding woods. As a hunter, this is the ideal design and colour. Your hunt will be much more successful if you manage to blend in and hide from your prey. Invest in a pair or two because gaiters can often be lifesavers when you’re in the wild.
Hunting Socks
You might not think they’re important, but socks can make a big difference when it comes to your comfort and performance. Choose socks with a mix of features that can keep your feet comfortable, warm and dry. Moisture-wicking materials are a must. They’ll dry out sweat quickly and won’t leave you feeling damp.
If you’re hunting in a colder environment, look for insulated socks. They’ll give you an extra layer of warmth because they’re thicker and can retain heat. Merino wool is the best option in this case. Hunting sometimes means you will be passing through rough terrain, and cushioned socks can give you additional support besides the boots.
Blisters can also be a big problem when you’re constantly on your feet. Anti-blister sock designs reduce friction and rubbing, lowering the chances of blisters. Look for durable materials that won’t leave you barefoot in the middle of the hunt and always bring a few extra pairs just in case.
