Hunting Clothing for Hot Weather

Although many hunters look for ways to keep warm while stalking their prey in the dead of winter in subzero climates fraught with snow and ice, there are as many who strive to keep cool when hunting during late spring, summer and early fall. Other hunters need clothing options that can be comfortably worn in temperatures that fluctuate from near freezing at dawn and rise to the 80s or 90s by midday.

  1. Outerwear Options

    • If the temperatures in the hunting region range between mild and hot, with no freezing nights to endure, lightweight long- and short-sleeve T-shirts made of special materials that wick perspiration away from the body are good options. The fabric in these shirts absorbs moisture quicker than regular cotton and quickly dries, which keeps wearers comfortable and cool. The material is typically treated with carbon-infused fibers that deter or eliminate unpleasant body odor. Shirts, pants and jackets made from single or multiple layer mesh keep hunters cool and protects them from mosquitoes and other flesh-seeking insects. Thin nylon pants and jackets keep hunters cool during the heat of the day and provide warmth when the sun goes down.

    Layered Clothing

    • Combining lightweight, breathable synthetic and natural clothing materials enables hunters to start cool days with multiple layers of clothing and remove them as the sun rises in the sky. Synthetic fabrics are light, compact and easy to carry in pockets and backpacks. There are shirts, pants, hoods and gloves made from a fabric similar to pantyhose that breathes and keeps hunters cool. Lycra is another breathable synthetic material that fits so tightly that perspiration is instantly absorbed and dissipated. It is favored by hunters for the mobility it provides to walk, run and manipulate weapons and ammunition. The slick surface of Lycra lets hunters silently move about without being detected by prey and is impervious to bugs and insect bites. High-performance, thin wool clothing has natural wicking properties and high durability.

    Specialty Clothing

    • For hunters who want to remain cool and simultaneously protect themselves from harmful rays from the sun, shirts, jackets and pants are available with built-in sunscreen. A component is woven into the fabric of the clothes that provides SPF 30 level sun protection. This clothing line has the feel of light, soft cotton and has mesh panels strategically incorporated into the designs as well as perspiration-wicking properties.

    Shopping Tips

    • When choosing cool clothes for hunting, consider the thinness or sheerness of the fabric as it applies to covering bright white or colorful undergarments. Avoid materials that allow too much of the underlying colors to come through and compromise the camouflage often required for successful hunting.