The Ultimate Whitetail Layering System
I spent the majority of my early years uncomfortable while I was out hunting. My clothing “system” was made up of assorted gear from the Army surplus store, a sweat suit and hand-me-downs. As the temps would drop, I’d add another layer of cotton clothing (in no particular order) and sweat my butt off as I walked out to my stand. Within an hour, I’d be slightly damp and freezing.
It wasn’t until 10 or so years ago that I began to get more serious about my clothing, the material it was made out of and the order on which I put it on my body. I quickly learned that I could get away with a lot less layers and stay much much more comfortable (which meant, I’d stay out in the field longer).
As you prepare for this Fall, learn from my mistakes. Follow this brief guide and create your Ultimate Whitetail Layering System.
What is a layering system?
First off, it’s important to understand what I mean when by “layering system”. We all know that conditions are never static in the field. What might start out as a cold frost-covered morning may end up being sunny and hot by mid day and eventually lead to downpour rains.
A proper layering system allows you to add or subtract articles of clothing in order to be comfortable in those changing conditions. A proper layering system is a specific combination of clothing, arranged by fabric type, that allows you to adapt to changing conditions in the woods. These layers should work together to keep you comfortable no matter what kinds of conditions you face.
Base Layers
The foundation and most important piece in your layering system starts with the layer that is in constant contact with your skin. The primary job of your base layer is to pull moisture away from your body. I typically use the same base layers whether its a warm early season hunt or a frigid late season hunt.
There are two main types of base layers available: merino fabrics and synthetic fabrics. Each offer their own unique advantage and each has its drawbacks.
Merino wool has been a popular fabric in the hunting industry as of late and rightfully so. It doesn’t hold your stink, pulls moisture away from your body and holds most of its insulating qualities even when it gets wet. However, it isn’t always super durable and tends to take longer to dry than its synthetic counterpart. Synthetic material (typically a poly blend) dries fast and pulls moisture away from your body effectively. It also dries very quick. However, it tends to smell and doesn’t seem to hold onto its insulating properties as well when it gets wet.
This year, I’ll be wearing a merino/poly blend. We’ll see how it performs.
Mid Layers
Mid layers are crucial but often overlooked parts of a layering system. They’re the workhouse of your group and work together with your base layers to shed moisture and retain hear. They’re the most flexible layers in your arsenal and are typically worn all season.
When choosing a mid layer, look for something that’s warm, breathes well and is quiet. I’ve worn tons of different types of mid layers and have found my favorites to be either a grid fleece or a slightly thicker wool shirt. Because these are outer layers, I do look for something that provides some wind and rain protection as well.
Insulation Layer
Insulation layers can fit into that mid-layer (or even the outer layer) category but I wanted to separate it out because it can be critical to staying warm in the field.
This “puffy” layer ought to insulate your body but also should be able to keep moisture moving away from your skin. On top of that, insulation layers should be lightweight and packable. These layers aren’t meant for wearing during activity, like walking out to your stand.
The two most popular types of insulation layers are down and synthetic. Down offers a better warmth to weight ratio and packs down extremely small. Often down can be more expensive and does tend to lose its ability to insulate if it gets wet. Synthetic can be heavier but does retain heat when it gets wet. There are down blends and treated down materials as well but I won’t get into that here.
Some people, especially whitetail hunters, will use a heavier wool piece for this layer as well. Wool is definitely harder to pack in and is heavier but it does keep your extremely warm, even when wet.
Outer Layer
Outer layers are critical for keeping the elements out. As you hunt, you’ll be exposed to wind, rain and brush. Your outer layer acts like a shield against those things.
For me, wind protection is critical here. Many people overlook the significant drain that wind has on the warmth generated by their bodies. You can get away with a lot less clothing if you can keep the wind out. With that being said, an outer layer that is windproof is critical for creating an ultimate layering system. It should also be rain resistant and quiet.
Sometimes I’ll switch this layer out for rain gear when it starts to rain harder or really wet snow is coming down.
Your Ultimate Whitetail Layering System
Layering systems don’t need to be complicated to keep you comfortable throughout the year. But you’ll need to tinker with your system to best fit your specific needs. Maybe you live in an area that gets a ton of rain or maybe it doesn’t get terribly cold where you hunt. These are things to consider when putting your system together. However, if you stick to these basic layering principles, you can quickly and easily put together your very own Ultimate Whitetail Layering System.
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