Opening day is close. The rifle's sighted in. The thermos is ready. And your long underwear from 2014 has more holes than your buddy's alibi.
Let's fix that. Here's a simple guide to picking a base layer for hunting, plus how our bamboo long johns fit into a fall kit. No gear-nerd lecture. Just what works on a cold Minnesota morning.
Layering Basics: Base, Mid, Outer
Most hunters dress in three layers. It's not fancy. It works.
- Base layer. This sits against your skin. It should be soft, stretchy, and easy to forget about.
- Mid layer. This is your insulation. Think a hoodie, fleece, or a puffy vest.
- Outer layer. This handles wind, rain, and snow. It's also where your blaze orange goes. Check your state's rules on how much you need, because they vary.
The idea is simple. Add layers when you sit. Peel them off when you walk. You'll shed and add more than you think, so pick pieces that are easy to swap.
Why the Base Layer Matters on a Stand Sit
The walk in is the easy part. You hike, you climb, you warm up. Maybe you sweat a little.
Then you sit. For hours. Not moving, not talking, barely blinking.
That's when your base layer earns its keep. If it's scratchy, bunches at the knees, or rides up, you'll feel every minute of it. And fidgeting in the stand is how you spook the buck you've been watching on camera for a month.
A good base layer stays put and stays comfortable. Then you can focus on the tree line instead of your waistband.
Heading to the ice instead? Same deal. A base layer for ice fishing is about comfort over a long sit, with plenty of getting up and down to check tip-ups. You want something that moves with you.
What to Look for in a Base Layer for Hunting
Here's the short list:
- Soft against skin. You'll wear it from dark to dark. Itchy isn't an option.
- Stretch. Climbing ladder stands, dragging a deer, kneeling on the ice. Stiff fabric fights you the whole way.
- A fit that stays put. No sag at the seat. No riding up at the ankle.
- No chafing. Long walks in cold gear can rub in all the wrong places.
- A fly that works. Nobody wants to undo three layers in a ground blind. Ask anyone who's tried.
- Length that fits. You want it to reach your boots without bunching up.
How Our Bamboo Long Underwear Fits In
Meet the Chill Boys Bamboo Soft Long Underwear. It's our take on a soft, warm winter base layer.
- 95% bamboo viscose, 5% spandex. Soft from the first pull-on. Stretchy enough to climb, crouch, and drag.
- Anti-chafing inner-leg vent. It keeps air moving where the boys need it most.
- Easy-access fly. You don't have to strip down in the deer stand. Your hunting buddies thank you.
- 31-inch inseam, one length, in black. Sizes S to XXL.
- Rated 4.7 stars from 57 reviews.
They're $30.95. That's a lot less than that new trail cam you're eyeing. Your wallet doesn't have to know, and your boys definitely won't tell.
Wear them in the stand, the duck blind, or the ice house. Wear them shoveling the driveway. Wear them on the couch for the Vikings game. We won't judge. That's what bamboo long johns are for.
Build the Rest of Your Kit
Long johns are just one piece. Here's how to round it out with Chill Boys gear.
Underneath: bamboo boxers. Start with a pair of our bamboo boxers. Soft, cool, no ride-up. They play nice under long underwear, so nothing bunches up on the climb.
On your feet: Bamboo Crew Socks. Our Bamboo Crew Socks come in a 2-pack. They're soft and moisture wicking, and they're tall enough to tuck your long johns into. Cold feet end more hunts than bad aim.
Mid layer: Chill Time Plush Pullover Hoodie. Throw the Chill Time Plush Pullover Hoodie over your base layer for the drive and the walk in. It's soft and comfortable, and good for the cabin after.
Then add your outer shell and your blaze orange, and you're set. Packing for camp? Our deer hunting trip checklist covers the rest.
Bonus: you get free US shipping on orders of $40 or more. Long johns and a pair of socks will get you there.
What to Wear Deer Hunting: Quick Recap
- Soft, stretchy base layer (top and bottom)
- Comfortable underwear that doesn't ride up
- Socks you can tuck your base layer into
- A warm mid layer you can add or remove
- A wind and water resistant outer layer
- Blaze orange, according to your local regulations
- Hat and gloves (your ears will thank you)
Spending more time in the cold this winter? Check out our posts on the best men's gear for winter camping and picking bamboo underwear for winter.
FAQ
What is the best base layer for hunting?
The best one is the one you forget you're wearing. Look for something soft, stretchy, and well fitted that won't chafe on the walk in. Our Bamboo Soft Long Underwear checks those boxes, with an anti-chafing inner-leg vent and an easy-access fly.
Can I wear bamboo long underwear for ice fishing?
Yes. It works as a base layer for ice fishing, under your bibs or snow pants. The stretch helps when you're up and down checking lines all day.
How do bamboo long johns fit?
They have a close, stretchy fit and a 31-inch inseam in one length. Sizes run S to XXL. If you're between sizes, check the size chart on the product page.
Do I still need blaze orange?
Probably. Most states have blaze orange rules for firearms deer season, but they differ. Check your state's hunting regulations before you head out.
Stay warm, stay patient, and good luck out there. The buck's out there. So is the couch, when you're done.