When embarking on a squirrel hunting expedition, choosing the right attire is essential for both functionality and safety. The key to a successful and enjoyable hunting experience lies in selecting clothing that blends seamlessly with the natural environment while providing comfort and protection.
Earthy tones like browns and greens help hunters stay concealed, while opting for durable, weather-resistant fabrics provides protection against the elements. You also need to know how to layer your hunting clothes. Layering is important to adapt to temperature changes. Normally, clothing for hunters has 3 main layers: the base layer, the mid layer and the outer layer.
Besides clothes, specialized accessories such as hats, gloves and boots are also extremely important. Appropriate clothing is a harmonious combination of practicality and camouflage. The right clothes can help you stay comfortable and safe in the field, and they can also help you be more successful in your hunt.
The Ultimate Guide What To Wear Squirrel Hunting
You need to spend hours in the woods, so it’s important to wear clothing that will keep you warm, dry, and protected from the elements. Comfort and functionality are the most important things when choosing hunting clothes.
Base Layer
The base layer is the foundation of your hunting outfit. It should be made of a lightweight, moisture-wicking material that keeps you dry and comfortable, even when you’re sweating. Some good choices for base layers include merino wool, synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, or a blend of the two.
A base layer has two functions: it keeps you warm and it wicks away sweat. When you’re out in the field, you’re likely to be moving around a lot, which can cause you to sweat. If your base layer is made of a moisture-wicking material, it pulls the sweat away from your skin and keeps you dry. This is especially crucial in colder weather, as wet clothing can quickly lead to hypothermia.
In terms of warmth, merino wool is an excellent choice for a base layer. It’s soft, breathable, and has natural insulating properties. Synthetic fabrics, on the other hand, are more affordable and tend to dry faster than wool. Whichever material you choose, make sure it fits snugly against your skin without being too tight.
Mid Layer
The mid layer provides insulation and warmth. It can be a fleece jacket, a vest, or a sweater. The thickness of your mid layer will depend on the weather conditions. If it’s cold outside, you want a thicker mid layer. If it’s milder, you can get away with a lighter one.
Fleece is a popular midlayer fabric because it is lightweight, warm, and quick to dry. It also has the added virtue of being quiet, which is vital when you are trying to sneak up on squirrels. However, you may want to opt for a down jacket or a heavier wool sweater if you’re hunting in extremely cold temperatures.
When choosing a mid layer, make sure it fits comfortably over your base layer and allows for a full range of motion. Trust me, you don’t want anything too tight or restrictive that will hinder your movements while hunting.
Outer Layer
The outer layer is your outermost layer of clothing. It should be waterproof and windproof. A good choice for an outer layer is a hunting jacket or coat. Look for a jacket that’s made of a durable material like Gore-Tex or nylon. Make sure the jacket has a hood and plenty of pockets for storing gear.
When it comes to squirrel hunting, you never know what kind of weather you’ll encounter. A waterproof and windproof outer layer keeps you dry and protected from the elements, allowing you to focus on your hunt. Besides, you should choose a jacket with a camo pattern that blends in with your surroundings.
Aside from keeping you dry and warm, an outer layer also serves as a protective barrier against any thorns, branches, or other obstacles you may encounter in the woods. Make sure you choose a jacket that is durable and can withstand the wear and tear of hunting.
Pants
Your pants should be made of a waterproof and windproof material. It needs to be comfortable and durable. When it comes to squirrel hunting, you want to choose pants that are lightweight and allow for easy movement.
Camo pants are a popular choice among hunters, as they blend in with the surroundings and help you stay hidden from squirrels. Look for pants with reinforced knees and seat, as these areas tend to experience the most wear and tear while hunting. Additionally, make sure your pants have plenty of pockets for storing gear and ammunition.
For colder weather, consider you wearing base layer leggings under your pants for added warmth. And if you’re hunting in an area with ticks, opt for pants with built-in tick repellent or spray your pants with permethrin before heading out.
Boots, Hat & Gloves
Last but certainly not least, a good pair of boots is essential for squirrel hunting. You’ll be walking through various terrains and spending hours on your feet. So it’s important to have comfortable and supportive boots.
When choosing hunting boots, look for ones that are waterproof, insulated, and have good traction. This keeps your feet dry and warm, and prevents you from slipping on wet or uneven surfaces. Don’t forget to choose boots that fit well and provide proper ankle support to prevent injuries.
Additionally, consider investing in a pair of gaiters to protect your lower legs and ankles from brush, thorns, and other obstacles in the woods. Gaiters are also helpful for keeping your pants tucked into your boots and preventing ticks from crawling up your legs. A well-chosen hat conceals your silhouette and protects you from the sun and rain. Gloves provide scratch protection and aid in maintaining dexterity when handling equipment.
Tips For Choosing The Right Squirrel Hunting Attire
Here are 5 tips to help you choose the right attire for your next hunt:
- Check the Weather Forecast
- Dress in layers
- Choose camo patterns wisely
- Consider safety
- Don’t forget about comfort
Understanding these tips can help you prepare thoroughly and not miss anything important on your hunting trip.
Check The Weather Forecast
Before heading out on your hunt, make sure to check the weather forecast for the day. This can help you determine what type of clothing and gear you’ll need to bring with you. If it’s going to be cold and rainy, you can dress in layers and bring a waterproof outer layer. You can opt for lighter clothing, if it’s going to be warm and sunny.
Dress In Layers
Dressing in layers is key for squirrel hunting. As mentioned earlier, you never know what kind of weather you encounter, so preparation is always necessary. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing as needed throughout the day. For example, you can remove your mid layer or open up your jacket, if you start to feel too warm. And if the temperature drops, you can add more layers to stay warm.
Choose Camo Patterns Wisely
Camo patterns are designed to help you blend in with your surroundings, making it easier to sneak up on squirrels. However, not all camo patterns are created equal. Choose a pattern that matches the environment you’ll be hunting in. For example, a woodland camo pattern would be more effective than a desert camo pattern, if you’ll be hunting in a heavily wooded area.
Consider Safety
Camo is important for staying hidden from squirrels, but you also need to consider safety when choosing your attire. Avoid wearing all-black or dark-colored clothing, as this can make it difficult for other hunters to see you. Instead, opt for camo patterns with bright orange accents, which will make you more visible to others in the woods.
Don’t Forget About Comfort
Last but not least, don’t forget about comfort when choosing your squirrel hunting attire. You can spend hours in the woods, so it’s important to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows for easy movement. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive, as this can hinder your ability to hunt effectively.
Squirrel Hunting Attire Checklist
To make sure you have everything you need for your next squirrel hunting trip, here’s a quick checklist of the essential clothing items:
- Base layer (top and bottom)
- Mid layer (fleece jacket, vest, or sweater)
- Outer layer (hunting jacket or coat)
- Pants
- Boots
- Gaiters (optional)
- Camo hat or beanie
- Gloves
- Face mask or paint
- Socks
- Undergarments
- Tick repellent (if needed)
It’s also a good idea to bring extra layers in case the weather changes, as well as a change of clothes for after the hunt.