Wearing the right gear while out in the field is imperative to your comfort and safety. If you’re looking for the perfect pair of trousers for shooting, we’ve put together this trousers measurement guide to let you know what you should look out for. Getting your numerical measurements is rather straightforward, but a good pair of hunting trousers does more than just fit well, they should also work well on both your body and the environment. The features listed below are things you should consider when sizing up the measurement and fit of your trousers.
Elasticated Waist
An elasticated waist gives you freedom of movement, which is essential to hunting. You don’t want to be confined by fabric as you twist and turn. An elasticated waist also helps to secure your thermals and shirt, preventing them from coming untucked. When you measure your waist for your trousers, consider a bit of give, and look for trousers that have both an elasticated waist and a secure closure system. Belt loops are also always a plus.
High Back
When you measure your midsection for your trousers, take into consideration that you’ll likely want a pair with a “high back”. A pair of hunting trousers with a high back provides you with protection and warmth over your kidneys and are a good choice for high seat work. If you’re looking for additional warmth, consider a pair with fleece lining, to keep you warm in the autumn and winter, as well as the crisper days of spring and summer. If you enjoy a hunt in the colder months, consider a sturdy dog coat for your canine companion as well.
Knee-Length Zips
When measuring your legs, consider trouser features that you’ll want to have around your knees. A pair of trousers with knee-length zips are easier to pull off, no matter how wet or muddy you get. If you need a quick change, you have the added convenience of not having to pull your shooting boots off when you take off your trousers.
Articulated and Reinforced Knees
Another thing to look for around the knee-area of your trousers are articulated and reinforced knees. An articulated knee refers to trousers designed with extra material in the knee area, which provides you with more mobility while also preventing your trousers from riding up.
As you can see, while measuring yourself for your trousers, you don’t want anything that’s too tight or that fits too snugly. Always look for a little bit of give for mobility, and added space for material that provides reinforcement.
Durability
Our final tip has to do with material. The best material depends on your usual shooting or hunting conditions. Rough terrain – such as heather – requires a tougher fabric. Waterproof material is also recommended for most environments. Different materials might require a tighter or looser optimal fit, so think about that as well while measuring. Finally, we recommend a fabric that is breathable so that you optimize your comfort while out on the field. The last thing you’ll want to do is be distracted from a hunt because your gear is uncomfortable!