A long sit in the cold is where bad layering catches up with you. The fix is simple and backed by state wildlife agencies: wear layers, stay dry, and add warmth once you stop moving. Sources are at the end.
On cold hunts I wear Realtree overalls and a jacket, and I always carry hand warmers.
The three layers
From Oregon, Idaho and New Jersey wildlife agency guidance:
| Layer | What it does | What to wear |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Wicks sweat off your skin | Wool or synthetic. No cotton: it gets clammy and cold when wet (Oregon, Idaho) |
| Mid | Holds heat | Fleece or another insulating layer, vest or insulated jacket (Idaho) |
| Outer | Blocks wind and wet | Warm, waterproof, windproof fabric. An insulated rain jacket blocks wind even when it's dry (Oregon) |
Idaho Fish and Game says to skip one big, bulky parka, since you can only wear it or take it off. Multiple layers let you adjust.
Don't sweat on the walk in
- New Jersey's hunter education manual: overheating causes sweat, and wet clothing makes you cold. Use easy on, easy off clothes to control your temperature.
- Idaho: you can overheat in heavy long underwear on the walk to and from your stand.
- Alaska Fish and Game: if you walk a long way and then stand still, take off a layer or two while you walk. Vent by removing a hat or gloves.
- Idaho: a daypack lets you stash layers until you need them.
Hands, head and feet
- Hands: Oregon suggests two pairs of gloves, one thin and one insulated and waterproof, plus disposable hand warmers.
- Head: a beanie or other hat reduces heat loss (Oregon).
- Feet: see rubber hunting boots, budget vs premium for insulated boots with comfort ratings.
Know hypothermia
New Jersey's manual says hypothermia happens when your body loses more heat than it makes, usually from sweat, cold, wet and wind, or from falling in water. To help prevent it: keep warm, keep hydrated and keep eating. For mild hypothermia it says to cover the head, swap wet clothes for dry, give warm liquids if the person is conscious, and rest near a heat source.
Insulated bibs and jackets
Realtree makes insulated bibs and parkas. One option for bibs is Realtree insulated bibs. One option for a jacket is the Realtree insulated parka. These are examples, not the exact models I own.
Other good options
- Stay comfortable in the saddle. Knee pads and shifting position help on long sits. See saddle comfort on long sits.
- Leafy suit over the top. A mesh leafy suit goes over warm layers. See ghillie and leafy suits, or one option, the Ginsco suit.
- Pack it in. See what's in my pack.
Questions hunters ask
What base layer is best for cold hunting? Wool or synthetic, per Oregon and Idaho. Avoid cotton.
How do I stay warm in a tree stand or saddle? Walk in light, then add layers once you're set up, so you don't sweat.
Do hand warmers work? Oregon's agency recommends disposable hand warmers for chilly mornings.
Sources
- Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, "Clothing considerations": https://myodfw.com/learn/tip/clothing-considerations
- Idaho Fish and Game, "The right clothes can make you a more effective hunter": https://idfg.idaho.gov/press/right-clothes-can-make-you-more-effective-hunter
- Idaho Fish and Game, "10 survival tips": https://idfg.idaho.gov/article/10-survival-tips-keep-back-pocket-big-game-hunting-season
- New Jersey Hunter Education Manual, Chapter 5: https://nj.gov/dep/fgw/pdf/hunted/chapter_5.pdf
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, "Cure for the Cold": https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/education/educators/curricula/pdfs/lets_go_ice_fishing_ch2_combating_cold.pdf