4 Steps to Successful and Simple Layering
Most hunters understand what it means to layer hunting clothes by now. If you don’t, make sure to pay close attention.
If you do, then this article is also for you, as it will dissect layering in the most simplest of terms. Layering helps you as a hunter adapt to the weather, remain comfortable, minimize pack weight and stay safe.
Follow below for a layering 101 tutorial with some suggested Kryptek pieces for your layering kit.
1. Start with the Base
This layer is next to your skin. It will absorb the perspiration from your skin for evaporation. You want merino or a synthetic fabric as your base, never cotton. Synthetic layers, like Kryptek's Sonora Hooded Shirt or the Valhalla collection, have the advantage of drying quickly but the disadvantage of no real heat retention when wet. Merino wool, such as Kryptek's Theos base layers, has the advantage of having some insulating value while wet but the disadvantage of a slower drying time. It is really up to you to weigh the pros and cons and decide what you want.
2. Move to the Mid
Next layer is your mid layer, typically some sort of fleece or fleece/synthetic material, such as Kryptek's Cronos collection. Again, never use cotton. Many mid layer options include a ¼ or ½ zip option for ventilation and have a hood. The fleece layer should provide warmth over your base and also wick moisture your base layer is feeding it.
3. Now Insulate
As the temps cool, it is time to insulate. Many insulated jackets provide warmth but a good puffy jacket is warm and lightweight, the perfect insulating layer for the backcountry hunter. Puffy insulation is either synthetic or down. Synthetic can hold some heat when wet, where if down gets wet it basically has no heat value. Now, companies are starting to make puffy pants for those long sits in the cold while glassing or in the tree stand, like Kryptek's Sentinel Pants.
4. Put a Shell on it
The last piece of your layering system is the outer layer, or shell. This is a windproof and either water-resistant or waterproof jacket to go on as a top layer. Your shell option may vary throughout the year for early season through late season hunts. A lighter shell, such as Kryptek's Dalibor collection, will work for archery hunts while a shell with some insulation may be better for late season hunts in wind and snow. If your shell isn’t fully waterproof it’s always a good idea to carry a lightweight rain jacket for those downpours.
“With these 4 layering pieces, you’ll be ready to take on anything”
Don’t let the vast amounts of hunting wear confuse you. With these 4 layering pieces, you’ll be ready to take on anything. If you follow this layering system you will stay more comfortable, allowing you to be out hunting longer and harder.
Watch Aaron and Clint put some of their Kryptek layers to use on their western whitetail hunt.
