Predator Xtreme - Feb 2012
hot tips Randy D Smith Cold Weather Clothing Dress for success when the temperature plumets Properly dressing for cold weather is a balancing act Being able to move easily in as light weight an outfit as possible and staying dry is key Fingers ears and feet must be adequately protected while being able to shed or add layers of clothing as a normal winter day passes This means near or subzero temperatures at dawn the high 40s or low 50s by midafternoon and then back to the 20s or 30s by sunset Frankly it is better to be a little cold when first exposed to the weather and allow your normal body functions to regulate your temperature Too many people expect instant comfort and bodies dont work that way These people end up being overdressed A cold weather caller wants at least three layers of clothing to 82 www PredatorXtreme com FEBRUARY 2012 regulate A close fitting underwear layer middle layer and an outter layer should be considered The outter layer should be wind resistant and water repellant A middle layer should be porous and allow for air transfer A fleece vest or coat a sweater a wool shirt or a good heavy cotton shirt will work As the day warms remove the mid layer and put the protective outer layer back on Remove at least the outer layer coat in the vehicle to prevent overheating and reducing the bodys efforts to address drastic temperature shifts Dress in clothing that is somewhat loose fitting especially socks and gloves Tight gloves or socks will restrict circulation and actually work against the bodys temperature regulation system A good pair of insulated waterproof boots and a single pair of wool socks are enough Make certain however that the socks are not so bulky that they restrict foot movement within the boots Gloves are always a problem in extremely cold weather and it is advisable to consider layering them as well A very light pair of wool inner gloves has similar value to long underwear when a heavier outer glove is worn Consider how the glove finger will fit in the trigger guard A good old fashioned cowboy neckerchief does wonders for staying warm Any type of mid layer dress that protects the neck is good too Simple ear muffs are mandatory Heavy coats that are too tight are much colder than looser fitting coats that allow your body to generate its own natural warmth A hood on the outer layer coat will protect the back of the neck in windy conditions Low slung turkey lounger folding chairs are ideal for calling predators in cold wet weather This style of chair actually improves shooting because it tilts the body at an angle so that it is very easy to take a knee braced shot at a variety of angles and shooting lanes Avoid contact with the cold wet ground You can sit longer with much less movement and stay warmer Taking along plenty of liquids to hydrate the body will also keep you warmer Hot coffee or tea helps but even plain old water works An energy bar is also nice if you are doing a lot of walking between sets
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