Trad Gang
Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: riot1013 on November 27, 2008, 02:41:00 PM
-
I was hunting today in about 20-25 degree weather. Calm, no wind to speak of (I was in a blind anyway). My clothing was as follows: Under Armor compression t-shirt, Waffle knit silk/wool long john top, Pendelton wool shirt, Polartec 200 fleece vest, Filson Timber Mackinaw wool hunting coat with a military M-65 coat liner buttoned in. Down below I had Under Armor boxer briefs, regular silk long john bottoms, wool whipcord pants and Filson Timber Mackinaw bibs with M-65 liner buttoned in. On my feet I had a pair of 600 gm Thinsulate leather boots and heavy wool socks. To round it out I had a fleece balaclava and fleece gloves with a hand muff.
The problem is that my feet got really cold after about an hour and by 8:30 I had to pack up and leave because I was getting to where I couldn't feel my toes. I was taught in Navy CWEST school(Cold Weather Survival Training) that the reason why feet and hands get cold (given they have enough insulation) is because the core of the body is not warm enough. I really felt like I was warm enough but my feet got really cold. I am not sure if I need more insulation or what. I do own warmer boots but they are big time, extreme cold pack boots. What do you guys think? By the way I did have minor frostbite on my right toes during the CWEST school. But both feet were cold today. Any input would be appreciated.
Riot
-
When it gets that cold I pop these Toe Warmers (http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___99836?002=2176235&004=535755304&005=521601736&006=1193921644&007=Search&008=) into my boots...they work! another trick I use is to apply anti-perspirant to my feet
Gene
-
In 20-degree weather I mostly wear sweat pants and a long-sleeve T and mocs ... because I stay indoors close to the woodstove! :campfire:
-
A house. :readit:
:campfire: :campfire: :campfire:
Sock liners, thick wool socks.
Expedition weight Thermax/wool longjoghns (can't find them anymore)
Depending on activity level, maybe a pair of medium weight underneath.
Dang...forgot my wool pants!
Expedition weight Thermax/wool longjohn tops, maybe with my midweight trebark thermax shirt under it.
Wool "commando-type" sweater.
Polartec 3 jacket.
Is it windy? Gonna sit? In the shade? Might put on a Rivers West type coat instead of Polartec.
Wool scarf.
Wool hat, maybe with another hat. Polartec fingerless gloves or glommits.
Some of this stuff, as well as a pair of extra socks and a couple of Grabber 12-hour handwarmers, will be stuffed in a pack as I walk out, otherwise I will sweat like crazy going up the mountain.
Killdeer
-
killdeer, what about your feet? I am really thinking about pulling out the Cabela's Predator Extreme boots that I have. They are rated for "-150*" so I think I might be good to about 10.
-
Oh yeah...I can have freezing feet even though my core feels warm. I put a spare hat or jacket over my boots. As soon as air circulation ceases around the feet, they warm up. Boot blankets are bulky, so I think I might invest in a small windproof blanket, like Rivers West offers, to put over my feet. An army poncho will cover your legs and keep you toasty, but they take up a lot of room in a pack.
Killdeer
-
Feet deserve a whole thread by themselves!
I use pac boots a lot, but they still get cold! Walking, they warm up, but sitting is torture. Dry socks are a primary necessity, so I carry a pair in the pack. Covering the boots is the other thing that works. I don't like anything in my boots except feet and socks, so I am very reluctant to try toe warmers. Besides, the moment I get them in, I will hear something on the other side of the ridge and have to go investigate. Then my overheated feet will soak my socks.
Killdeer
-
Yeah I hear ya about the toe warmer thing. I had dry socks on today though. I don't know maybe it was colder than I thought this morning. But my feet got cold last Saturday night at the VT football game with the same boots on. It was about 25 that night too.
Riot
-
I just looked at the airport weather, it was 19 in Blacksburg at 6:00 so I am pretty sure it was colder than that on the other side of the mountain. Maybe that was the problem, I should have been wearing the big boots anyway.
Riot
-
I used felt lined boots by Scnees,in cold weather.There are other brands too.You might try your Cabelas boots.When sitting still,in cold weather,I don't think you can get too much warmth on your feet.
-
Yeah Jim I think that is the way to go. Those boots are huge though. They will be "fun" getting to my stand. Lot's of climbing involved.
Riot
-
How/what were you sitting on in the blind? If you cut-off circulation the least bit your feet will get very cold very fast. (Same idea as wearing too many socks will actually freeze you faster just wearing one...cause it cuts off circulation) Most tree stands nowadays have pretty good seats in this regard, but a lot of people, myself included, use whatever is handy for a blind.
I've yet to find a GOOD solution to this problem. I'm young enough and dumb enough to just ignore it. If/when the numbness ever goes past the toes I'll pack up for fear of frostbite. For now, I've just learned a lot of little tricks to help...but not solve, the problem.
-
20 degrees... Hmmm... let see
Feet... ultimax socks w/liners... breathable (non) waterbroof hi-tech boots... once on stand, I cover with the arctic shield over booties after about 15 minutes... I have also done well with wool dress socks and running shoes and covered with the over booties...
bottom half- thin base layer thermal underwear... Lite polar tec on the bottom.. bdu pants... green army field pants (or mopp pants..)
core- thin base layer top... heavy wool sweater.. cheap cotton polyester/cotton (wally world type) jacket... polatertec neck muffler.. wool filson hat with polatec beanie over the top..
thin wool gloves with handwarmers in the pockets...
I leave the jacket open till after I am on stand and begin to chill...
However, its about 500-600 yds through the woods to my cold weather stands- Key is to not over heat on the way in...but to stay warm, and slowly lseal out the cold as I cool off...
Cold weather stands are by south and east facing slopes and the stands ae near creek bottoms that tend to be shelterred from winds... and the deer love to come and settle in and catch some thermal heat... however... only lil does and one button buck came to hang out this a.m.... I was hoping for big daddy to come looking for romance and they had moved off by the time they started looking good to me...
-
I also use the "cozytoes" toe warmers. Thay are just a cheap chemical hand warmer type deal that has adhesive on one side and you just stick 'em to the bottoms of your socks. I walked with them quite a bit last weekend and couldn't even tell they were there in my Muckboots. I have had surgery on both feet and both ankles....pins and screws in both feet. Between the surgeries and the metal in my feet, they are cold all the time. The "cozytoes" are the only thing I have found that keeps my feet comfortable while on stand. I work construction and use them for work as well. Good luck! Mike
-
Last year I was talking to our favorite waitress at our favorite restaurant. She is a skier and we were talking about how cold my feet get. She suggested I look into getting some battery operated toe warmers by www.hotronics.com. (http://www.hotronics.com.) I found some on sale at a local sporting goods store and tried them out for the first time about a week and a half ago. The first time I tried them I had on two pair of heavy socks and my feet got sweaty so the warmer didn't work very well. Next time I did what they advised....medium weight dry socks and loose fitting boots. Since my boots are oversized the single pair of socks was perfect. I do not get cold feet any longer. The batteries are rechargeable and I got wader extensions so I can run the wire from my boots up my pant legs and put the batteries in my pockets. The batteries have at least 3 heat settings but you reduce the amount of active hours they will stay charged. I keep mine on the second level and my toes are warm when I get back to the truck. A little pricey but I can hunt in comfort which, if you have feet like mine, is priceless.
-
Under armour top and bottom,
Fleece pants and woolsweater,
wool bibs and cabelas wool sweater with wind shear and sheerling lining.
I have to change sox after hiking in. My feet get sweaty and then they will freeze if I sit with damp sox.
On my head I like my fleece balacava and a Filson timber mackinaw hat on top.
-
last friday i was out in 10 degree weather with -1 windchill. call me redneck, but i just had on my work boots with a pair of hunting socks and a pair of wool socks on top. regular long johns top and bottom, jeans, carhart bibs, t-shirt, flannel, hooded sweatshirt, carhart coat, stocking type mask with grandma-made stocking cap, and wal-mart special thinsulate gloves. I got kinda cold in the stand, but i stayed from sunup till about 9:00 (2 1/2 hours). I can't say I'll do it too much, but it's pretty normal here in Iowa.
-
20 degree weather.....oooooo I ware my PJ's. :)
texas boys don't do cold but I admire you guys that can and do.....
if dog water is solid i throw another log on the fire :)
rusty
-
Raven Wear! Try It! You will be glad you did!
-
Mickey Mouse boots....best 50 bucks I ever spent.
They are all rubber, with a sealed wool insulated layer between your feet and the outside. They work by trapping your body heat inside and circulating it. My feet havn't gotten cold yet this year. They are big but you get used to them. I wore them for 3 hours on stand a while back, it was 25 degrees, I had on one pair of wool socks and my feet had just started to get chilly.
That is totally impossible with my Rocky 800 gram insulation leather boots and THREE pairs of wool socks.
They are army surplus and when you order them in your size they will feel too big but thats ok, I've found that the more space for your body heat to flow around in inside the better, cause they're pretty much air tight.
PM me if you want to know where to get them, trust me they're worth it :thumbsup:
Bakes
-
I have the same problem. Mine stems from sweaty feet. My socks would get wet from sweat on the drive to the woods and the walk into the stand. So now I do not put on my hunting boots until just walking to the stand. I only wear socks that have proven to be excellent at wicking mousture. As long as I can keep my feet dry, I can keep them warm.
The socks I wear are UnderArmour or SmartWool. Plus it helps that they are Made in the USA.
-
Sock liner, thermal socks then Caribou boots or boot blankies over Woody Mucks, same deal on the hands, glove liner then gloves with the fingers that flip open. I will put them in one of those muffs. Layers on the chest area of course.
-
Bill, I checked out that link you provided. It must be wrong. I sure would hate to put that stuff in my boots.
-
Originally posted by Bakes168:
Mickey Mouse boots....best 50 bucks I ever spent.
They are all rubber, with a sealed wool insulated layer between your feet and the outside. They work by trapping your body heat inside and circulating it. My feet havn't gotten cold yet this year. They are big but you get used to them. I wore them for 3 hours on stand a while back, it was 25 degrees, I had on one pair of wool socks and my feet had just started to get chilly.
That is totally impossible with my Rocky 800 gram insulation leather boots and THREE pairs of wool socks.
They are army surplus and when you order them in your size they will feel too big but thats ok, I've found that the more space for your body heat to flow around in inside the better, cause they're pretty much air tight.
PM me if you want to know where to get them, trust me they're worth it :thumbsup:
Bakes
I can't agree with you on the Mickey Mouse boots. If you didn't catch in the first post, I am in the military and got frostbite in those things going through SERE/CWEST school. Every student had to wear those boots. The intersting thing is not one instructor had them on. They all had civilian boots.
Riot
-
Haha that was last Saturday here in Jersey. BUT with 20 MPH winds to boot. If you want to see how me and the TRI-STATE TERRORS were dressed check out Joe Skipps thread bentpoles birthday. I had on LaCrosse 1200 Gram ins.rubber boots with wool socks, smart wool ,wool pants , camo cotton pants on top of those, 50/50 turtle neck poly/cotton,,wool shirt and a carhardt vest on top with a fleece face mask and wool hat.
-
Originally posted by talkingcabbage:
last friday i was out in 10 degree weather with -1 windchill. call me redneck, but i just had on my work boots with a pair of hunting socks and a pair of wool socks on top. regular long johns top and bottom, jeans, carhart bibs, t-shirt, flannel, hooded sweatshirt, carhart coat, stocking type mask with grandma-made stocking cap, and wal-mart special thinsulate gloves. I got kinda cold in the stand, but i stayed from sunup till about 9:00 (2 1/2 hours). I can't say I'll do it too much, but it's pretty normal here in Iowa.
You, my friend, are nuts.
Riot
-
Above 20 degrees I wear reg. street jeans, t shirt and sweatshirt, under a pair of insulated bibs. Then comes another heavy sweatshirt and a quilted insulated medium heavy coat. Good stocking cap and gloves.. Most important are boot blankets,,, the best $45 I ever spent. With this I am good at least 3+hours..
Any colder or with wind I break out my Heater Body Suit.. You will NOT get cold wearing one..Guaranteed or a full refund. These suits are pricey at over $300 but worth every penny!!
I can sit all day at Zero temps wearing mine. There is no excuse to get cold. At least thats what I tell myself.
-
riot1013- I understand that, but they work fine for sitting a few hours in the woods. I'm guessing you had to wear them for a week or so in really cold temps? I saw a thing on the military channel about the Marine Corp's mountain survival school, not saying I know what you went through, but thats what I'm basing my guess off of.
As said before, for how I use them, they work better than any of my other boots. :thumbsup:
Bakes
-
LOTS of layers of wool! wool bibs are a MUST around here as well as a good wool coat. i also highly reccomend a longhunter shirt from Ron Leclair, i wear one over top of all my other clothes.
-
I wear synthetic sock liners and some nice heavy synthetic or wool socks. I wear Sorel Caribou boots. The key is to have boots and socks that are big enough to allow good circulation and air enough to maximize insulation. Keep the top tight to keep the heat in.
-
Expidition weight Polypro top and bottoms with old canadian hand made wool socks leave all traces of cotton out of the dressing process. Sleeping indian ridgeline pants pullover top and goathunter vest or the extreme parka. As far as foot wear Lacross 1500 thinsulate rubber with wool pants inside boot. Depending on my walking I will change socks when I get on stand or leave them on as long as I am active.
-
Speaking of 20 degrees I think thats the forecast overnight. So tomorrow morning I'll be wearing:
Polypropylene sock liners under wool socks
1200 gram thinsulate rubber boots
polyproprylene long underwear top and bottom
chamois pants
chamois shirt
wool bibs
wool coat
facemask
stormy kromer hat
I carry most of this in with me so as not to work up a sweat. I get dressed near my tree.
I started spraying my feet with unscented antiperspirant spray last year. It made a big difference. My feet probably sweat like crazy on the way in and this helps. I spray them before I get dressed.
I do know that resting me boots on a cold metal tree stand doesn't help and thats hard to find a solution to.
These things work for me and I'm usually somewhat of a lightweight when it comes to the cold.
-
This is the set up I wear when I am sitting on stand in cold weather.
Layers of thermal long johns, insulated jeans, wool bibs, one of Ron LeClair's wool hunting shirts, a vest and my hooded wool coat. For my feet I spray anti persperant on my feet to keep them from sweating, then sock liners and wool socks with ROcky 400 Gram Thinsulate. I carry extra wool socks and liners so I can change them during the day.Once my feet get cold I'm DONE! I also have a watch cap for my head and a hand muff with a chemical warmer or 2 inside. I wear wool fingerless gloves on my hands.
On days where I am doing drives I wear a lot less clothing.
-
It seems like everybody has a good idea on how to stay warm. The use of wool and layering will take care of your upper and lower body. Keeping the head warm is critical due to the amount of body heat lost through the head. For your feet a wicking type sock under a wool sock is important. Keeping your feet dry is also important. Your feet will sweat as you drive in your warm truck and as you walk to your stand. Most of you wouldn't wear all of your clothes in the truck or on your walk to the stand so why do it with your feet. A couple of people mentioned changing socks when you get to your stand. A very good idea as long as odor isn't a concern. You might do this 50 or 100 yard from the stand. The other thing I find important in warm feet is the footwear you choose. Rubber boots will most certainly make your feet sweat. A good breathable boot such as a pair of Rocky Bruts,with 1200 grams of insulation and because they are Gortex they breath.
-
Originally posted by Bakes168:
riot1013- I understand that, but they work fine for sitting a few hours in the woods. I'm guessing you had to wear them for a week or so in really cold temps? I saw a thing on the military channel about the Marine Corp's mountain survival school, not saying I know what you went through, but thats what I'm basing my guess off of.
As said before, for how I use them, they work better than any of my other boots. :thumbsup:
Bakes
I had them on for 6 days with heavyweight wool socks and thermax liners in temps ranging from -10 to a low of -36 without windchill. I had three pairs of each socks so I always had dry socks on but the boots just couldn't keep up. We were moving the whole time but we also ate twice in those 6 days. For stand hunting above 5-10 degrees they would probably suffice by my personal vendetta with them will not allow them on my feet ever again. The boots that I own now are far superior I just didn't wear them this morning. I thought my 600g boots would do. But from everyone's response I think my thinking was flawed.
Riot
-
Just FYI, the military cold weather survival instructors do not like sock liners. They say that they restrict blood flow to the feet with the amount of elastic that those thin socks usually have. They rather you have one pair of heavy wool socks and change them throughout the day.
Riot
-
Riot1013 wrote:
I am in the military and got frostbite in those things going through SERE/CWEST school. Every student had to wear those boots. The intersting thing is not one instructor had them on. They all had civilian boots.
---------
Robert responds:
Clearly this may be a case of to each his own. I have spent the better part of the last 30 years living and working in the Canadian Arctic and under all kinds of conditions. I have found the Mickey Mouse boots to be the best cold weather boot I've ever worn. I should add that in my experience, no boot that I have ever seen or heard of, will keep your feet warm indefinately while you are standing still.
For walking in cold weather, you cannot beat Schnees Hunter II.
-
I just bought a pair of the Guide Gear 1600 gram boots. Best 82.00 Ive ever spent. My feet felt like I was sitting at home watching t.v.. I have a pair of the fold back mittens that you can put the heat packs in also. As long as my feet are warm I'm warm..Roy
-
IMO thinsulate sucks! I have never owned a pair of boots with thinsulate that kept my feet warm. I even ordered the "NEW" type of Schnee liners for my 30+ yr old Sorels and my feet froze. Im going back to felt liners with a good pair of wool socks...PR
-
Originally posted by Baffinland Archer:
Riot1013 wrote:
I am in the military and got frostbite in those things going through SERE/CWEST school. Every student had to wear those boots. The intersting thing is not one instructor had them on. They all had civilian boots.
---------
Robert responds:
Clearly this may be a case of to each his own. I have spent the better part of the last 30 years living and working in the Canadian Arctic and under all kinds of conditions. I have found the Mickey Mouse boots to be the best cold weather boot I've ever worn. I should add that in my experience, no boot that I have ever seen or heard of, will keep your feet warm indefinately while you are standing still.
For walking in cold weather, you cannot beat Schnees Hunter II.
I completely agree with you on the fact that no boot will keep you warm while motionless. Like I said though, not a single instructor who taught the classes while I was there wore those boots. They all spent their own money on different boots. The boots will keep you warm. But again there are better boots out there. Keep in mind that the Mickey Mouse boots are 1950's technology. That in itself is not a bad thing, do not get me wrong, I mean we are on a Traditional Bowhunting forum. Heck my Filson Cruiser was put on the market in 1914. But there are better products out there.
Riot
-
Originally posted by riot1013:
I completely agree with you on the fact that no boot will keep you warm while motionless. Like I said though, not a single instructor who taught the classes while I was there wore those boots. They all spent their own money on different boots. The boots will keep you warm. But again there are better boots out there. Keep in mind that the Mickey Mouse boots are 1950's technology. That in itself is not a bad thing, do not get me wrong, I mean we are on a Traditional Bowhunting forum. Heck my Filson Cruiser was put on the market in 1914. But there are better products out there.
Riot [/QB]
Hey Riot,
I won't pretend to be the the expert with the final word on this topic. I should have added that while I like the Mickey Mouse boots, they ain't perfect either. Indeed, those Mickey Mouse boots were originally developed for US Navy personel in Antarctica in the 1950's.
I am always open to learning new tricks. So I'd like to hear your opinion on what boots you reckon are better as you clearly have some practical experience in this regard.
cheers mate
Robert
-
I wouldn't say practical by any means, and I am in no way professing an "expert" opinion. I am merely professing MY opinion. I just know that I have three bad toes now because of a combination of cold and those boots. Like I said the boots that I use for really cold weather I didn't bother taking out today. I wish I did. But if you really want to know they are some Cabela's Predator Extreme boots. If you were just being sarcastic (which I think you were), well they are still some Cabela's Predator Extreme boots. I just feel they are better boots. But like you said, it all comes down to what works for you.
If you want to talk about practical experiences, I know that today my clothes, particularly my footwear, didn't work for me. It has in the past which is why I asked the question in the first place. Maybe I was dehydrated, maybe I had a circulation issue. I know I probably had too much caffine. Maybe I didn't get enough carbs this morning. Those are all practical things I know. I also know from practical experience that I have a great disdain for Mickey Mouse boots. You live in a place where you deal with cold for 3/4 of the year. I am sure that your practical experiences have pointed out gear trends that work very well for you. And also while I do appreciate people sharing their opinions as a means of answering my original question, I really do not appreciate the bantering and sarcasm because I happen to disagree with you about a pair of boots.
Riot
-
Hey Riot,
First off, I was not being sarcastic. My question was genuine and should be taken at face value. I was not trying to insult you and I was not trying to be sarcastic. If I left you with that impression, then I apologize. I am not that type of person.
I would never be so arrogant to believe that know everything there is to know about cold weather boots just because I live in a cold place. I am always open to learning new things from anyone who has something to offer, no matter where he hails from.
I was asking an honest question to a man who has used what I consider to be a good boot, has found them to be deficient and further, has found a type of boot which he feels is better.
I reckoned that I stood to learn something from someone else. Hence my question.
Again, if I came off sounding like a jerk, then I apologize. This was not my intention. My question was an honest one in an attempt to learn something new.
You'll have to take my word for it. Or not, I suppose.
Robert
-
Well my apologies Robert. I guess I took it the wrong way...so I am sorry. I have found that the Cabela's Predator Extreme to be the best boot for extreme cold for what I like in a boot. Now, for what I like in a cold weather boot, most obviously...WARM. This particular boot is the warmest boot I have used in the field to include high end mountaineering boots such as the Koflach Arctis Expe. I also like my boots somewhat stiff, but not mountaineering stiff, and reasonably light. I also like a good fit for snowshoeing. I cannot speak of the durability of these boots as I just got them last year, but I think they will be less durable than the Mickey Mouse boots simply for the fact that the MM boots are all rubber. They trump the MM boots in all other catagories however. The only drawback to these boots is that they could use a roller lacing system to get good tension on the laces and they are big, bigger than MM boots. But they are lighter and they really do not wear like a big boot. At any rate I would gladly trade bulk for warmth anyday. Cabela's also has a boot very similar to this boot with an attached gaiter that was designed for dog sled racing. I know Jeff King uses these boots and loves them. If choosing a boot from an operational standpoint I like the one that I have. It is a really solid secure boot. I would imagine it could prbably take a strap-on crampon as well. I haven't tried this however as mine are step-in. And again I apologize for taking your post the wrong way.
Riot
-
I can sit all day dressed with a couple of layers of underwear (one wicking, one wool), two wool sweaters, an insulated vest, my wool shirt/jac. Same on bottom but just wool pants.
For feet: LaCrosse Iceman (I think that is the name) are the best I have used. Sit all day in freezing temps. They are a wool pac as well as insulated. I love them. A size larger with two pairs wool socks. . . good to go. Scarey cold brings out a couple of chem. toe warmers.
Other tricks that have worked well in extra cold:
1) Carry in an extra pair of XXXL polar fleece pants. Put them on over everything. Blanket or simple fleece sleeping bag can work here.
2) Can not beat an insulated vest for loft without arms being bulky.
3) More than one wool hat and a head/face mask (ears cut out)
4) Chemical warmers in a sock hung around my neck using an old shoelace. I put this down inside my wool sweaters and jacket. Acts like a little heater.
5) Scarf or the like to cover your neck. You can even put a chem. warmer in a neck gaitor- awesome.
6) Chem warmers on the back/wrist of my gloves.
Hope that helps. I hate the cold but can sit in 20s all day in this.
Dan
-
wow Dan that is some great ideas. Thanks for the info.
Riot
-
Great topic. My suggestion is new (different) boots. Leather boots can be your worst enemy if they are not rated for low temps. There are arctic mukluk boots made for the military. I have seen some on **** or try army surplus. There is a great surplus store in Fairbanks Alaska that you can buy from as they are near the Army base (Ft. Wainwright). The boots have a felt booty insert, make sure you get them as well. The boots are worth their weight in gold! And they will keep your feet warm even during a long sitting spell in a blind. I will look up the surplus store's info and post it.
-
Hey Riot,
No problem mate. I felt bad that I may have sounded like a jerk. That's just not my style. Glad we could sort this one out and shake hands.
Thanks for the info. I am going to look into those boots.
cheers and stay warm
Robert
-
BTW, I was stattioned and lived in Fairbanks Alaska for 6 years during the 6th ID Light Infantry tour. Light Fighter Academy had a -30 below class. Lotsa FUN!!!!!
-
Bakes...You are right on the money....Give me my Mickey Mouse boots(The white ones, not the black) and I can sit all day in any temperature with cozy feet. They are priceless!! Desperado
-
The white Mickey boots are great too, but you must be disciplined about changing your socks as they WILL make your feet sweat. Also, keep the valve on the side CLOSED at all times. "DO NOT BLOW AIR INTO THEM". The moisture from your breath will stay in bladders and freeze. This defeats the whole purpose of the boot.
-
I have tried everything for cold feet and nothing works...the more socks or heavier the boots the more my feet sweat leading to getting colder...I wear tennis shoes and 1 pair of regular socks...my feet get cold but they dont freeze because of to much sweat...I just tough it out and except the discomfort...Its weird because now I dont even think about my feet getting cold even though they are...the indians didnt have much on there feet either...PS...when I changed my socks on stand and that cold air hit my sweaty bare feet that just starts the freezing process quicker
-
Back when I would sit in a tree all day......I had an old sleeping bag that had been cut down to about 1/2 it's original size and resewn.I would wear uninsulated boots and medium weight socks to my stand and then slip the bag over my feet.Most the time I would even take my boots off and throw a hand warmer in.
-
I didn't read all the responses so forgive me if someone all ready said this.
Your boots have to fit loose to have warm feet, tight boots = cold feet. Poor circulation due to tight boots is what causes cold feet. Now if you have poor circulation to your feet anyways I guess you are pretty much screwed.
I always wore Sorel pack boots and hunted and snowmobiled in temps as low as -30 and never had cold feet. One light/thin pair of silk socks and one thick wool pair. Then buy your boots big enough to be loose wearing the sock setup you have.
-
Sorry, folks...I mistyped the link to the foot warmers I mentioned. Leave out the "s" in hotronics.....the link is www.hotronic.com. (http://www.hotronic.com.)
By the way, I am in total agreement about the sweaty foot thing and sitting still. In order to change sox and sometimes my base layer, which can also get sweaty, I carry in some plastic bags and put all the sweaty stuff in my backpack. I'm one of those lucky guys, who my doctor says has an efficient cooling system. I am very sensitive to over dressing and sweating too much. My solution is a back pack with extra clothing and plastic bags to put the "used" stuff in. You just need to get to your stand early enough so the commotion of changing doesn't disturb the area. I also use boot blankets on very cold and windy days. Together with the hotronic foot warmers I am totally comfortable and actaully am enjoying, for the first time, cold weather hunting.
-
Underarmor is worthless if you are not moving around and will make you colder not warmer if you're just sitting in a blind trying to be still. Compression fit means no air to insulate so think loose not tight. Same with your boots, loose is better. I wear a pair of non-cotten running socks and then light wool socks and my feet are nice and warm.
-
I agree with ol' killinstuff above. Loose is better and wool is indispensable. Don't get too close to the fire with Underarmor or it will become part of your epidermis.
-
Another Mickey Mouse guy here. Just out of high school and green to frigid winter construction work in Iowa I bought my first pair in the early 70's. I noticed most of the construction guys I was working with were wearing these weird looking boots. When your feet are frooze and others dont seem to mention theres you ask why and listen. We had an Army Surplus store at the time so I bought a pair. They were stamped on back 1952 Korea. They lasted me about my first 10 working years of construction when I bought pair #2. I now own pair #3 and #4 but they dont get the work out the original Mickey's got :) . I beleive it would be foolish to say there are not better boots out there. There probably is. These boots are work horses and my only point is I em not interested in buying multiple $200.00 boots for the chance of I might find something better.
-
Some of the warmest feet I ever had was when wearing high top running shoes with light and heavy wool socks. They insulate and breathe, as long as they don't get wet. Not one solution for everyone for sure, but you don't need to spend high dollars to keep warm, just adjust that setting between your ears and wear the right combinations.
-
Lavilin foot anti persperent= dry feet.Smartwool liner and wool socks(better yet Patagonia liner/sock combo... but$$$$) keeps feet dry. Loose fitting, but not huge boots that are fresh off the boot drier keeps feet warm.The amount of walk in to my stand will dictate the boots I wear, as does the amount of snow and wind. MM are good for the sit but for me are a pain to walk in. I have used Icemans and Sorels and if the liners are freshly dried they are decent. This for me is 10degrees to about -5. below that I do the same but bring boot blanketsand put them on before I feel even a little cool. Don't discount quality carb intake for cold sits. Bring some grub with you, and as with anything stay well hydrated. Remember Uncle Gene's idea of a hot water bottle to pee in, turn it into warmer as it is full. Last, I use a product called ThermaCare for the REALLY cold sits. They are basically chemical warmers that have an adheisive attached. They are about 10x4" and put on my neck or kidneys and keep me out all day. Good stuff!
-
Layering is the way to go. These are the clothes I wear all season in a certain combination of layers. Below 30, here's what I do. Keep in mind this is for stand hunting, not on the move.
Upper
1- polypro t shirt
1- polypro light long sleeve shirt
1- polypro heavy weight thermal
1- Large Cabela's wool sweater
1- XL Cabela's wool sweater
If it's windy I put a Gamehide wind pullover overtop of everthing.
This may sound like a lot of clothes, but they are all stretchable materials that fit very snug, but comfortable to my upper body. I can't stand loose clothing while bowhunting. Nothing I wear get's in the way of my bowstring and I stay comfortably warm and feel unrestricted in movement with this system.
Bottom
1- lightweight polypro
1- med weight polypro
1- heavy polypro
Pants - Cabela's microtex
If it's windy - I wear a pair of gamehide windproof pants instead of the microtex.
Feet
1- polypro light sock
1- polypro med sock
1- wool sock
Black micky mouse boots or 1200 gram Lacross.
My cold weather boots are 1/2 a size bigger and wide to allow for extra socks. If your foot layering ends up being to tight, that cuts off circulation and you get cold feet no matter whats on them.
The Cabela's brand wool camo sweaters (without the windshear.... to noisy) are the best layering wool you can buy IMO. Reasonbly priced to. I can wash and block them and they turn out great.
-
Big heavy pac boots suck to walk in get some KOM muklux and put them on when you get to your stand.I dont care how cold it is your feet wont get cold even with a pair of lacross burlys on. These have solved the problem for me on stand and I live in Iowa and it gets fridgid here! I have an extra pair I got for christmas last year I would part with..
-
Alot of people on here talk about boots that keep you warm while moving, well that isnt your case. Anything will keep you warm while walking. Sitting on stand for 3 to 4 hours in 20 degree temps is another story. I have also tried the Mickys and my feet froze in them while sitting. But as soon as I walked 100 yards my feet were fine. I have a friend who can sit all day long in a pair of lacross Burleys ice fishing and it doesnt even phase him. I would freeze in them. Everyone is different. My feet get cold easy and I bowhunt almost everyday of the Iowa bow season. So in the cold temps I wear 1 pair of heavy smartwool socks, a pair of Cabelas 1000 gram leather boots which are easy to walk in, "not pacs", and my KOM muklux which I just strap to my fanny pack. That way I climb into my stand, sit down, slip on the muklux and I'm done, they are quiet and warm. No taking my boots off and changing socks or throwing in foot warmers then lacing them back up or taking off a pair I used to get to the stand and changing into a different pair and making a bunch of commotion and noise and fidgitting around and everything for 100 yards away is clued in on you, then pretty soon you dont see anything anymore then your wondering why? The least amount of messing around with things seems to always work the best for me. I like to keep it simple. I used to find myself dragging half my hunting wardrobe into the woods with me to try and stay warm, or "just in case". Morning Star has it together, quiet clothing and layers. Easy to move, easy to walk in, no noise, snug fit his feet stay warm easier than ours, he's good to go.
-
I'll have to check out those Muklux. Sound like the ticket.
The Mickey boots are definitely bulky when you have a long walk to stand or when you have to hang sticks/stand and hunt. My only complaint.
You guys that have had poor luck with the Mickeys....did the air bladders work? I know a big problem can be finding a used pair that hold air.
-
On topic, I agree. Clean ,Over-layers , Loose and Dry is the best way to stay warm( believe it or not.) Think C.O.L.D. !
-
Dress for 20s? We've had a few 20something days here this year (another scheduled for tomorrow) and I haven't even had on all my layers yet. Give it time though. :-D
For me, the torso gets a polypro undershirt, flannel shirt, a heavy wool sweater, Ron L's longhunter (with the hood - it makes a *huge* difference) and maybe a filson Mackinaw wool vest over that while sitting (not for walking though, thanks - not in the 20s anyway).
The head gets a fleece balaclava and a nice, thick wool hat, and the hood if needed.
The legs get a pair of heavy polypro longjohns and a pair of cotton pants (I know - I have wool pants on my Christmas list).
The feet get a pair of heavy wool socks over polypro sock liners and unless it's really wet (in which case, I'm in rubber boots - brrrrr), a pair of cheep Wally World moccasin looking slippers w/ rubber soles.
The big change for me this year is that I wear almost none of that until I get to my stand. Once there, I throw a chem heat pack in a bandanna for the back of my neck and a couple more between sock layers. Add all that to a nice wool blanket for my legs and feet and I stay warm enough.
Oh yeah - a thermos of coffee is niiiiiiice.
-
Re: KOM Mukulux...
$321?!
Holy yikers.
-
Heater Body Suit. Dress comfortably for the walk in, slip it on and you're good from dawn 'til dark. Guaranteed or your money back. :thumbsup:
I perspire easily so it's the best thing I've found yet. No getting lathered up on my way in (or carrying a ton of extra clothes) warm and comfortable on stand, and still easy to shoot with it on. Not cheap, but pays for itself quickly in # of hours it will keep you out there.
>>--Ron--<>
-
Originally posted by Morning Star:
I'll have to check out those Muklux. Sound like the ticket.
The Mickey boots are definitely bulky when you have a long walk to stand or when you have to hang sticks/stand and hunt. My only complaint.
You guys that have had poor luck with the Mickeys....did the air bladders work? I know a big problem can be finding a used pair that hold air.
For my experience, I used the Navy issued MM boots, so I would hope the bladder worked. I really do not know though. They were used however.
Riot
-
I have done a lot of ice fishing; and that is the ultimate of standing still or sitting for long periods of time in the cold with no protection from the wind.
One thing that helps keep your feet warm; is to buy a closed foam sleeping pad; and cut it big enough to make a 'doormat'. If you keep your feet on that; your insulated from the ground underneath.
You can cut another piece to sit on.
You can even cut out inserts for your boots with the foam.
wool- and a windbreak material are a great combo.
-
I start with a layer of mil issue brown heavy weight poly pros,then a pair of m-1951 field pants and a wool shirt,then top off Columbia Galatin range pants and shirt jac camo wool(LOVE them,and them camo blends excellent to the forests I hunt).Fleece balaclava,scent lock stocking cap,wool mittens with the slits in the palm to get your fingers out,and Irish setter buck tracker 1600 gram boots.Maybe toe/foot warmers.And a thermos of coffee.... :campfire:
-
Well I guess I'll jump in.
1. expedition weight polypro bottom/top
1. medium wieght wool bottom/top
1. fleece turtle neck
1. LL Bean wool hunting shirt
1. heavy fleece vest
1. LL Bean wool shirt jac
1. LL Bean wool pants
1. fleece half mask
1. fleece/wool watch cap
1. pair poly pro liner sock
1. heavy wool boot sock
1.pair wool glommits
1. pair Kamick pack boot 1 size larger
1. pair Artic shield boot booties
I hunt exclusively on the groung prefering natural blinds. I carry a stool and use a seat cushion. Last year in my favorite spot, I sat all day for three days in a row. The temp never got above 6 and the low -3 with a 5-10 mph wind and I was toasty all day including my feet.(nut)
-
Why... here in Wisconsin... it gets to 20 or so and the boys stop wearing shorts and a tank top to high school. :bigsmyl:
Brian's idea of the "Doormat" is right on. In a blind you can wrap yourself in a blanket and wear less, so you can drop the blanket and maneuver to shoot a bit easier.
I am not a fan of underarmor. Ilike things a bit loose and layered when it comes to cold weather gear. My arms do not get cold very easily, so vests play a big role for me.
A nice warm hat will help more than you might realize.
ChuckC
Chuck
-
I wish it was twenty degrees...It will maybe get back up there in four months or so ;*)
I spend a good part of my boring little life on the north side of the Arctic Circle. While I am fortunate to spend alot of that time in the KW, I do have to get out to deal with loads, mechanical issues, wrecks etc, while being constantly prepared to stay alive in an emergency.
Chalk me up as a firm believer in the MM boots.
Put a felt insole on the bottom and change socks at least once a day. Warm them up inside before you put them on or your feet will never generate enough heat to catch up. (Frozen bunny boots are torture!)
They are the one boot that you will consistantly see on the feet of the workers in Prudhoe Bay.
Keep the valve closed and NEVER blow air into them. The valve is to be opened ONLY when flying high altitude!
I have also had very good luck with the Steiger Mukluks and wear them constantly in the truck. Since they are breathable my feet just don't get all sweaty and therfore don't freeze solid when I step out at minus 55 to unload the tanker
When working trapline, varmint hunting, or taking extended journeys on the Snowmachine, the Bunny Boots are the only thing I would depend on, especially if there is a chance to get wet by getting stuck in overflow or dropping through a beaver run.
I laid around on a patch of ice for hours and hours a few years ago with both right leg bones blown out while I awaited a MedEvac. It was windy, wet, and cold and I was covered in frozen slush yet my feet stayed relatively warm.
Just my opinion.
Scotty
-
I always wear a ThermoCare heat wrap around my lower back over my kideys. I get them at Walgreens. Under the usual layers of long underwear and hunting outerwear. I am no longer cold with the ThermoCare, even to below zero, up in the tree.
I have battery heated socks that keeps them from getting the usual cold after two hours in the stand.
-
My 20 degree outfit, in a blind would be as follows:
a silk or polypro undershirt. Cabelas ECWS system, longjohns, shirt, socks, and stocking cap. Wool pants, Woolrich wool shirt, and a Filson single Mackinaw coat. Fingerless wool gloves, and uninsulated boots. If I were in a tree, I would include a Balaclava and maybe my wool boot blankets.
-
Rodger...I concure with the Cabella's ECWS...my wife refers to them as my "second Skin"
It took me about three years to wear out my first pair, and I am talking day in, day out wear that starts in mid September and goes till ice out in late May. I keep em in my pack in the summer also as it gets a mite frisky out in the boats on our cold water. The comfort zone is the best part of them. I can wear them all day while driving (and the KW has got a GREAT heater!) and not overheat, then step out into a blow where the wind chill off the chart.
For those who may be interested in the same comfort range for the "feetsies", here is a link to Steiger Mukluks...they even have a pair of cammo ones this year!
http://www.mukluks.com/
My pair of Arctic Weathermates are entering thier sixth winter and going strong. Not too shabby considering the wear and tear that goes on while cutting wood, truckin, and hunting/trapping in the frozen north. I can wear them inside all day long like a cozy pair of slippers, step out the door at minus 20 and fire up the sled.
A good beaver fur trappers hat keeps the heat in on top.
Toasty is a good thing! :campfire:
My best to all,
Scotty
-
Justin Charles undergarments,800 grm boots,wool fingerless gloves,turtle skin neck gaitor.
-
Make sure you got some wool up on top of your head too. You won't have warm toes and hands without preserving the heat from your head.
I wear 3 thin layers of wool and put some insulated bibs and coat over them. Use wool gloves and socks too. Make sure you have a warm hat and if you STILL get cold use the toe warmers. I have stayed out 6 hours out in 3 degree temps with no worries that way.
You can also put the adhesive warmers for back pain on in REALLY cold weather. Do that under some coveralls and it is like sitting in a sauna even at 0 degrees.
-Charlie
-
Filson Merino Wool long underwear
Long hunter wool shirt
Columbia Gallatin Wool pants
Columbia Gallatin Wool coat
Smart Wool socks
LaCrosse Insulated boots
Wool Stormy Kromer
-
Sitka Gear heavy core bottoms, Traverse pants, a layer of Winona fleece, and then the Celsius bibs on the bottom.
On top, Sitka core shirt, last year's Mountain shirt, Sitka vest, one layer of Winona fleece, and then last year's 90% coat and this year's Celsius coat.
I wear the Sitka beanie and the heavier cap they make. Gloves, but keep hands in pockets with handwarmer until crunch time.
My biggest problem is my feet. Boot-Blankets are still the best I've found. A footwarmer in the boots helps a lot too.