Outdoor Adventure USA

Outdoor Clothing and Footwear

Effective outdoor clothing knows no season. And, as important as it is to stay warm in cold weather, it is just as important to keep as cool as possible in warm weather. Long gone are the days when we really had just two choices, cotton and wool. While synthetics have earned a place in the outdoor clothing market, they have, by no means, replaced cotton and wool. In fact, today's technology has made these traditional fabrics real contenders when it comes to effective outdoor clothing.

The market for effective footwear today is better than it has ever been. The competition for your footwear dollars has not only created a very strong and crowded marketplace, but it has also created more choices, with better technology, than ever before.

Whether your needs are for hunting, camping, hiking, backpacking, concealed carry, or just the occasional walk through the neighborhood, there are plenty of companies that are producing some really great products. We hope to cover the lines of clothing and footwear known to us, but we hope we can get other knowledgeable outdoorsmen to join us with their suggestions as well, (and ladies too!!!)

GETTING READY FOR THE WEATHER


So, for starters, we need to cover some basics about the fibers that make up the clothing we will discuss on this net. Two of the most important considerations for selecting the right outdoor clothing are warmth and wicking. Wicking is simply the ability of the fabric to transport perspiration moisture from your clothing to the outside environment. So here are the most common fabrics:

Cotton

Cotton has not historically been a recommended fabric for outdoor clothing, especially in cold weather, and where exertion was expected. The reason for this was the fact that cotton absorbs perspiration moisture, and instead of wicking it out, it remains in the clothing. The argument, which was valid, went something like this: when activity stops, your wet cotton clothing would chill you rather than keep you warm. Technology has come to the rescue of this fabric, and today many manufacturers are making great outdoor clothing with "moisture wicking cotton." On the other hand, non wicking cotton does have a place in warm climates, as it will retain moisture, thus helping the body to remain cool.

Wool

If wool were to be discovered today, it would be heralded as one of the most significant advancements in cold weather clothing of or our time (a little exaggeration, maybe), and it would certainly be at the very top of the list of fibers that make for good outdoor clothing. That's not to say that wool is not already there, because it already is, but the point here is that today, wool is, In many, many ways, the gold standard for cold weather clothing, and for many good reasons. That, by the way, is a gold standard to which all other fibers, including synthetics, strive to match or surpass. For those interested in digging a little deeper into the benefits of wool, read this article, "Why Wool Stomps the Comp": https://weatherwool.com/pages/why-wool.

Aside from its ability to serve in both warm and cold climates, wool is extremely durable and long lasting, and YES, wool wicks moisture away from the body and breathes. It's protection from cold is almost legendary.

Synthetics

Most (and probably all) synthetic fibers used for outdoor clothing are derived from petroleum and are considered petrochemicals. Polyester, which is a petrochemical and one of the most commonly used fibers for outdoor clothing, has seen some of the greatest advances in technology. These advances have created some of the best outdoor clothing on the market today. One of it's most significant advantages is the ability to wick moisture, as well as it's ability to dry quickly. Also, it's light weight and low bulk have added to it's appeal and function. And, for those who need proper clothing in cold climates, synthetic clothing also offers great protection.

One note of caution here is in order, however. Synthetic clothing does not do well when subjected to high heat, and by that I mean that the flying embers from a campfire. If this happens it will quickly burn a hole in your in your favorite jacket (or whatever), and if your clothing is next to your skin, the melting fabric could be dangerous.

Down

Strictly speaking, down is not a clothing item, but it is contained within a fabric, to make clothing items. Like wool, this natural product has phenomenal properties which can serve you well in very cold climates. Among its many strengths are its light weight. its ability to breathe or wick, it's ability to be super compressible for packing purposes (not for long periods however), and, of course, its fantastic insulation capabilities, which will keep you warm.

There are a couple of disadvantages with down, the first being cost. The second issue has to do with downs susceptibility to getting wet. Traditionally, when down got wet, it lost most of its insulating capabilities. In recent years however the technology has developed to treat down to make it water repellent, thus preserving much, if not all of its insulation qualities. Since all (or almost all) of the outer shell for down garments is made from synthetic fibers (and usually nylon), it is a very good idea to not wear your down clothing around campfires.


KEEPING THE FEET DRY, WARM AND COMFORTABLE

Need some new boots?????


Getting a good pair of outdoor capable boots these days is not as easy as going down to your local sporting goods store, at least for most of us. The exception, of course, is when your local sporting goods store is a Cabela's or a Bass Pro Shop.

With the transition of our buying habits to the internet, the reality now is that this is where you will find good information on footwear as well as a great selection. The bottom line is that your footwear should be the product of good research as well as information from others that do what you want to do.

For the many reasons which we will discuss on the net, your footwear is one of then most important pieces of equipment you carry. Recognition of this means that you need to do some home work and make sure that you are getting the best that your budget will allow. There is no comfortable way to speak the truth here, so I'll get it out now, without any sugar coating: DON'T BUY CHEAP!!! Quality boots will last longer, perform better, offer more protection, and be more comfortable. They will, of course, cost more.

CLOTHING

Having hunted, camped and hiked in the outdoors for decades, we have seen a whole lot of clothing choices over the years. Many of these manufacturers are gone, and it is a bit nostalgic to open the closet and see a few labels from some of these older items, that, by the way, we still use. Quality outdoor clothing, at least for us, is not something that is limited to "the good old days" of the past. In fact, these days, right now, are the good old days, because we have more choices for clothing, from more sources than ever, that are more efficient, lighter, and designed for our favorite outdoor activity.

The abundance of clothing choices today almost makes it a chore to make the selection for our activities.

My choices for Outdoor Clothing: Duluth and Carhartt

Duluth and Carhartt

When it comes to good looking, durable, long wearing and effective outdoor clothing, both Carhartt and Duluth deliver big time. When you add a can of 3Ms Scotchgard to these items, you have an effective barrier against light to moderate rain and snow.


The Carhartt and Duluth clothing I use is made from cotton duck on the outside and synthetic insulation on the inside. Both are suited for cool to cold temperatures and they all are as tough as nails.

Carhartt Vest


Carhartt Insulated Jacket


Duluth Insulated Shirt Jac

FOOTWEAR

For all you campers, hunters and hikers out there, this is a topic that should appeal to everyone. Footwear is a priority consideration for anyone who spends time in the outdoors. For hikers and hunters, it is a top priority, but even if you are not trekking, good footwear is vital for foot and ankle protection (even around camp). And for those who travel in cactus land, having good protection from the evil cholla, (among others) is a must.

The market for footwear is enormous, and while we know what works for us, we need to hear from you about your preferences and experiences.

It's difficult to know exactly where to start on our topics for this net. To a very large extent, the information that we intend to cover will give you the benefits of our experience and knowledge, neither of which lend themselves well to pictures. A large part of your decision for footwear will usually be the product of your research and personal preferences, which we hope will be aided by the information discussed during the net.

There are a few very important points which should be emphasized.

• 1. Footwear is a critical part of any trip.

• 2, Quality matters,

• 3. Quality matters

• 4. Quality matters

• 5. A footwear failure can spell the end of an otherwise great trip. Proper planning can avoid this result.

The type of footwear that you select will largely depend of the type of outdoor activities in which you engage. Speaking personally, having tried a number of styles over the years, I have settled on a particular type of boot that serves me well for a number of activities, including hunting, hiking, desert use and almost all camping activities. For those who hike long distances to your destination, your boots become one of the most important pieces of equipment you have, if not the most important. Getting to your destination can be fun. Getting home can be critical. A boot failure can be a whole lot more than inconvenient, especially if you are many miles from camp, over rough terrain.

These pictures, help to explain my choices:


We're fortunate to have so many choices when it comes to outdoor footwear. Everyone has a bias or preference as to what works best or which brand is best, and if you're still looking for the right boot, ask people who wear different types. It may be that they use the boot for the same activities as you. We'll try to shed some light on all this during the net.

So for many, these are the criteria why we prefer high top, leather boots:

cactus proof
highly abrasion resistant
waterproof
superior ankle protection
sole stiffness choices

One of the premier outdoor boot makers, whose boots meet my criteria, is Schnee's of Bozeman Montana. Around since the 1940s, Schnees offers a full line of boots to meet the needs of the most demanding hunters, hikers and campers. Among the many qualities of their boots is their options for boot stiffness. They say this (https://schnees.com/schnees/mountain-boots/)

Our boots are flex rated on a scale of 0-4, with 0 being the most flexible and 4 being the stiffest. Typically a stiffer boot lessens foot fatigue in steeper country, while a more flexible boot is going to be more comfortable in flatter terrain. However, the stiffness of a boot is truly a matter of preference. We have created our flex scale as a guide to help you find the best boots for you, and your type of hunting.

My choice for all around hunting, hiking and camping use is their Timberline:



LEATHER BOOT CARE

Leather boots are pretty rugged and water repellent just as they come from the factory, but with use, abrasion and age, they will benefit from some supplemental waterproofing. I have found Sno-Seal to be one of the very best products to keep your boots dry and able to still breathe. Here is what they say, http://www.atsko.com/sno-seal-wax-8-oz-jar/:

Sno-Seal Original Beeswax Waterproofing protects leather from rain, sun, snow, and salt. Sno-Seal is also great for waxed cotton and tent seams. The beeswax formula dries to a solid wax that "stays put" in the surface of the leather so it lasts longer.

Sno-Seal will help you feel more comfortable in Gore-Tex® fabric lined boots because it allows the Gore-Tex® absorbed perspiration to escape out of the leather.
Not only will Sno-Seal keep you warm and dry, it will also help you from getting tired. A typical leather boot can soak up to a pound of water. That means you lift an additional 2,212 lbs. to walk one mile. Sno-Seal keeps the whole boot dry, warm and light.

Recommended by Schnee's:

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Check in please - Thanks - Bernie
Started to buy a few things for cold weather, like socks, Carhart pants which the label says that they're made in Bangladesh, gloves, and hat.

My preferences on clothing...


Colors

I personally don't like unnatural colors in the outdoors unless the intent is to be seen, like a blaze orange safety vest. I'll wear light-colored clothing when it's hot and sunny. I lean toward drabs, khakis, and camos in my outdoor clothing. My wife has a totally different opinion.


Sun Protection

I'm susceptible to skin cancer yet dislike greasy-feeling sunscreen lotions and their frequent application, so will wear wider brim hats and high UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) long-sleeved shirts of thin nylon with unbuttoned front and sleeves when it's sunny.


Synthetic Fabrics

Unless I'm wearing a Merino wool base layer, I'll always be wearing a Coolmax T-shirt, in heat or cold, either short or long sleeved, as I've found these most comfortable.

What's Coolmax?
Coolmax® is the original performance fabric. It has proven physiological benefits that keep you cool and dry in any setting from high-intensity performance workouts to everyday casual wear. Get the level of performance you need to stay cool and comfortable in any situation.

What are the advantages of Coolmax® vs. cotton
Besides its positive effect on maintaining body core temperature, Coolmax® is moisture wicking, fast drying, breathable, and resists fading, shrinking, and wrinkling.

Made in the USA Coolmax® T-Shirts at Cool Clothing USA

Campfire caveat on synthetic clothing
Embers throw out by a campfire will melt right through synthetics, such as synthetic fleece. Always wear cotton or wool outerware around a campfire.

This is the sleeve of an old Under Armor fleece shirt that I'm still wearing 10 years after an ember melted a hole. I also have old nylon shell jackets with similar damage. My old M-65 jacket (not this one) has suffered through many decades of embers without any problems whatoever.
Merino Wool

Merino wool seems almost magical to me. I wear it under other clothing when the temperatures are low, and by itself to the mid-70s. Works great as pajamas in a sleeping bag to keep your bag cleaner.

• Warm, but not too warm
• Wicks moisture
• Itch free (Merino, not regular wool)
• Naturally anti-microbial
• Odor resistant
• Durable, but store carefully; beware of moths

I like the offerings from Kryptek, Kuiu, and Minus33, but Merino clothing is available from a number of outdoor clothing vendors.

Kuiu Merino Wool Crew Shirt. Kuiu also makes Merino hoodies. Kuiu Merino Wool Bottoms Minus 33 Beanie Decent lightweight Merino socks can be found on Amazon

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Joe

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Wool you Please check me in tonight.

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