Tips for a Great Starter Kit That Works for Most Types of Hunting and Weather Conditions:
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Endeavor Jacket
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Endeavor Trousers
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Heron Flannel Shirt
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Bristol Windproof Beanie in High-Vis Orange
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Tundra Leather Boots
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Mainstone Fleece Jacket
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Liner Sock Wool
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Boot Sock Wool
What’s Most Important to Think About as a New Hunter?
For someone new to hunting or considering getting started, gaining knowledge is key to creating a positive and safe hunting experience.
Which Hunter’s Education Should I Choose?
Before heading out into the field, it’s important to complete a course in hunting and firearms. This includes learning about wildlife and nature, safety, hunting laws, shooting, and firearm handling. Courses that lead to a hunting license are available in several formats. Some last an entire semester, while others are intensive. Some focus only on theory, while others include both theory and shooting practice.
To earn your hunting license, you must pass both a theoretical exam and a shooting test.
What Should You Think About When Buying Hunting Clothes?
Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Weather Conditions:
Cold Weather: If you’ll be hunting in cold conditions, choose clothing that’s tough, windproof, and waterproof. That way you’ll stay dry and warm, even in snow and rain. There are two main ways to dress for warmth:
- Insulated Clothing: A padded jacket and trousers are a comfortable choice to stay warm. Different insulation levels are available to match very cold temperatures. The outer fabric should be durable and able to handle both rain and snow.
- Layering System:
- Base Layer: Start with a tight-fitting layer close to your skin, preferably wool, which wicks moisture away.
- Mid Layer: A warming layer such as a thicker wool sweater, fleece jacket, or flannel shirt.
- Outer Shell: This layer protects against wind and water — your jacket and trousers should be waterproof, windproof, and tough enough to handle branches and undergrowth.
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Warm Weather: During spring and summer hunts, lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal — as long as it’s still durable and can withstand sudden downpours.
Type of Hunt or Game:
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Still Hunting: Use quiet clothing that won’t make noise or stand out to the game you’re hunting.
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Driven Hunt: High-visibility is essential. Wear blaze orange or garments with orange panels so your hunting team can easily spot you. In some countries, a certain percentage of your clothing must be orange by law.
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Stand Hunting: If you’ll be sitting for long periods during a stand hunt, it’s important to stay warm. A padded extra layer you can pull over or under your shell jacket once you’ve reached your stand is a good option.
Terrain Type:
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If you’re hunting in hilly or rugged terrain and will be moving a lot, ventilation and an ergonomic fit are key for mobility.
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If you’re hunting in the mountains, wind- and waterproof clothing and a good hood are essential for cold, windy conditions.
And finally, always invest in high-quality, durable gear designed specifically for hunting. Choosing the right materials and construction will help you stay warm and dry, and give you the comfort and freedom of movement you need in the field.
What Other Equipment Does a New Hunter Need?
You’ll need the right firearm and gear to hunt safely and effectively. Don’t go overboard with equipment at first — start with the basics.
Get a firearm suited to the type of game you’ll be hunting and a hunting knife for processing your game. For your first few hunts, you might be able to borrow a rifle to get a feel for what suits you best before buying your own.
Most shooting supply shops have great opportunities for trying out different options.