Taking Proper Care Of Upland Hunting Gear

by Tracy Breen

Now that hunting season is over, it is sadly time to pack away the shotgun, hunting gear, and clothes  and start dreaming about next fall. Before all the gear gets stored away, Brent Pike of Pyke Gear believes all hunters should clean up all their gear and clothing before they store it for the season. “We are all guilty of throwing our clothing and gear in a corner of the basement when hunting season is over and leaving it there until next season,” Pike said. “Hunting clothes and most of our gear is extremely expensive. By taking care of it properly, we can greatly extend the life of our gear. Below are a few tips for hunters to help them get the most out of their gear.”

Upland Hunting Boot Care

Footwear takes a beating throughout the hunting season. Boots typically get wet, dry out, and then get wet again. Most boots come with a waterproof membrane that is built inside the boot but that doesn’t mean they are bomb proof. It is best once hunting season is over to wash hunting boots and get all the dirt and debris off the boots. Once the boots are clean, it is best to apply a waterproofing gel or spray that waterproofs the boots and conditions the leather. Boots that are properly cared for will last years longer than those that are not reconditioned and waterproofed. If leather boots are simply thrown in the closet after hunting season, there is a good chance as the leather dries, it will start to crack.  Cracks lead to spots that leak in the boots, spending 30 minutes washing and applying a waterproofing spray or gel on boots after season is well worth the investment.

Storing Upland Hunting Clothing

Water-resistant breathable shirts, pullovers and pants are the go to hunting garment of most bird hunters. For instance, the garments we make at Pyke Gear are made of breathable, lightweight fabrics that are designed to last for years. To ensure the garments last for years, Brent Pyke says they need to be properly cared for after season. “I always recommend that hunters wash their hunting clothing in a detergent designed for breathable clothing as soon as hunting season is over. Nikwax and Atsko Sportwash are two companies that make great clothing wash that won’t leave residue on the fabrics after the wash so the clothing stays breathable,” Pike said. “Once the clothing is washed, I reapply a waterproofing layer on all my clothing. I typically use Nikwax. Once the clothing is dry and I am done taking care of the garment, I store it in a tote out in my basement or garage where sunlight can’t reach the garment. UV light can reduce the life of a garment. By cleaning and storing my clothing this way, my clothes are ready for hunting season months in advance.”

Clean Out The Upland Vest

Right after hunting season closes is a great time to clean out the upland hunting vest, replenish the dog’s first aid kit, and clean the shotgun. “It is very easy to put all of these