A lot of my lightweight technical big game layers cross over really well for late season roosters. Zip off merino wool base layers. Goretex windstopper vest or jacket (sitka). I hate bulky clothing and really try to avoid heavy boots, bibs, parkas. And there's nothing worse than working up a sweat walking out to the end of a shelterbelt only to stand there in the wind for 30 minutes as a blocker if you don't have quality clothing on to manage perspiration and wind.
Gear Recommendations - Mid-December First Timer
- Thread starter Ridlejs
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gimruis
Well-known member
I wouldn't say you need to buy a second set of boots. Bring the ones you have. Feet rarely get cold when you're walking around. Using the appropriate pair of socks is a must though. No cotton whatsoever. It soaks up moisture like a sponge.
Boot dryers are a good idea. I use my boot dryers nearly every time I'm done hunting.
Forget the neoprense vest. Terrible idea.
If there's measureable snow on the ground, the bottom of your pants should be a waterproof material. That would eliminate jeans or chaps that soak up moisture.
Boot dryers are a good idea. I use my boot dryers nearly every time I'm done hunting.
Forget the neoprense vest. Terrible idea.
If there's measureable snow on the ground, the bottom of your pants should be a waterproof material. That would eliminate jeans or chaps that soak up moisture.
Bob Peters
Well-known member
I'm bringing 3 pairs of boots on most trips. Two leather and a pair of neoprene. I prefer leather boots but wear neoprene when I have to.
Rent a U-Haul trailer for all the extra gear listed in above posts
If snow is a possibility, I bring a snow shovel and pointed tip shovel in case I get hung up on a country road/section road. Packed snow can be almost impossible to break up sometimes with a snow shovel, hence the pointed shovel.
Examples of what I am talking about, below. You can get them at most hardware stores. If you don't already have them, you can get them during the trip, if there turns out to be snow.
When everything is white, drifts can be difficult to see until you are on top of them. Of course, you can back out/turn around if you don't want to risk it. I often choose to take the risk when trying to get to spots others might avoid, hence preparing for getting stuck.
Examples of what I am talking about, below. You can get them at most hardware stores. If you don't already have them, you can get them during the trip, if there turns out to be snow.
When everything is white, drifts can be difficult to see until you are on top of them. Of course, you can back out/turn around if you don't want to risk it. I often choose to take the risk when trying to get to spots others might avoid, hence preparing for getting stuck.
Miforester
Well-known member
Not much I can add to the list and I didn't read everything but if it hasnt been mentioned tow/jerk strap, and clevis. I have added traction mats as well. I would also add a sleeping bag as one mentioned might have to stay in your rig at night, coffee can with sand and a candle is also good. Clothing from cool to extreme cold, face and neck coverings as well as good gloves.
Bob Peters
Well-known member
I'm thinking just flip flops and t- shirts next time. Minimalist approach.
A5 Sweet 16
Well-known member
For me, clothes, hats, & boots are the easy parts. Gloves are where it's at. I have 3 types that could all see use in December. Light, medium, & heavy. Make sure you can shoot a shotgun with any of them. And consider some hand warmers, just the cheap, open them, shake them up, & they magically get warm kind. One placed inside your glove isn't as uncomfortable as you might think, & if it keeps your fingers a little less numb, that's a good thing. And Musher's Secret for the pup's paws, arm pits, chest, tummy, & nads (if that's an issue).