MOVE: November 14, 2013

Be Prepared to Enjoy the Trails All Year Round

I love to spend time in the woods - running, hiking, snowshoeing, exploring with my family - all year long, but my favorite time is now, during the fall and (especially) winter months. The colorful leaves and brisk temperatures add to its attraction, and can be quite comfortable if you dress properly...but realize that you’re not the only one out there - it’s hunting season, and safety has to come first! With the proper strategy and precautions, you can maximize your enjoyment and ensure a safe and respectful outing for all.

Read on and learn the key ways to dress for activity in the cold as well as the best ways to coexist with the hunters.

Understanding Layers

We've all heard that wearing layers is key, but not layering properly can lead to an uncomfortable experience too.

In colder weather, and especially during days where you expect temperature to vary widely, layering is the way to go. This allows for adding or removing a layer or two to keep up with the changes. It will take some experience before you can consistently dress properly for a set of varying conditions.  Remember: when you leave the house, you want to feel a little cool; you will warm up quickly after you begin moving, and this strategy will minimize sweat buildup.

There are three types of layers. Understanding the purpose of each layer, and how to best combine them, will make your time outdoors more enjoyable...and that’s really what it’s all about!

1. Base Layer

• The purpose of a base layer is  to wick moisture away from your skin to keep you dry and add some minimal insulation properties. Common examples of base layers are “typical” wick-away shirts. They can be tank-tops, short or long sleeves, and it’s best if they are a little snug-fitting.

2. Thermal Layer

• This is the primary insulating layer in your system. Its purpose it to keep the cold away from your base layer and your warmth in. For a thermal layer to work, wind cannot travel through it. Fleece shirts or jackets often provide adequate thermal layers.

3. Wind Blocking Layer

• This is your outer layer. Its job is to prevent air from traveling through your insulation.
• Typical layering options include vests and jackets. Gore-tex or other similar materials, are commonly used because they are highly wind and water resistant, and breathable too!  However, if you’re like me, you may find that when working hard  (i.e., running or hiking uphill)... it may not breathe fast enough, and your sweat will not escape, which can lead to chills. So if there’s no chance of rain, you may consider something else.  Experience is always the best teacher!

Safety! Dress to be seen!

All public areas have different zones for each group to pursue their activities in, which should be clearly marked off. However, you should take the proper precautions too.

> Know local hunting seasons.  Specific dates for hunting seasons vary year to year and also by type of game hunted and weapon used. Small-game seasons (turkey, rabbit) stretch from fall through the end of May; large-game seasons (deer, bear) generally occur October through January. Learn the regulations and hunting seasons for the areas where you will be hiking before you go. See the NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife Guide to Hunting for more information. Hunting on Sunday’s is allowed in some regions.

> Wear the right colors.  Wearing a blaze orange-colored vest, hat, or pack cover is one of the most important things you can do to stay visible to hunters - it's what hunters themselves wear for safety. If you don't have any of these (although you should if you're doing fall/winter hiking) make sure you wear bright colors and steer clear of earth tones;  also, avoid white because it resembles the rear of a white-tailed deer.  It is recommended that you also avoid wearing red or blue during turkey seasons.  Finally, if you hike with a dog, it should also wear blaze orange, and be visible from all sides and it is recommended that pets be leashed at all times while hiking.

> Use extra caution at dawn and dusk. Hunting activity may increase at dawn and dusk, when animals are feeding and visibility is poor. Wear reflective vests or use a headlamp or flashlight for extra visibility.

> Use extra caution near roads and in valleys. Be especially cautious within 1/2-mile of road crossings (both approaching and leaving) and in valley areas.

> Be heard. Make sure you are heard before you are seen by whistling, singing, talking, etc., while you hike.

> Avoid hunter interference. Hikers should be aware that interference or harassment of hunters in the lawful pursuit of game is a violation of law in many states. This includes interference or tampering with dogs used in the pursuit of game where allowed by law. Sportsmen are partners in conservation—encounters between hunters and hikers are opportunities to raise the awareness of both groups.

Now go out and explore and enjoy your ability to move!

Always Believe,

~Joe G

Joe Galioto is a Certified Personal Trainer, Endurance Athlete and 30x ultra-marathoner.  Contact Joe at jgalioto@pro-activity.com