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Which Material Provides Warmth Even When Wet? (No, It’s Not Fleece!)

Keeping ourselves warm during cold days is important and is by far a crucial part of our survival instinct as a living being. Over the years, a wide range of materials has been discovered to keep us warm. Both organic and man-made materials have become available for us to use for this purpose. You may often encounter them not only in clothing but also inside our homes. In this regard, it is but important to determine which of these materials provide warmth even when we’re wet.

Insulator And What We Know About It

Cotton, Wool, Fleece, Silk – these are some of the familiar materials that are used to keep you warm during the cold days and nights. The fancy term given to them are “insulators.” They have different properties and qualities that provide warmth.

However, there may be a time that you get curious as to which among these materials can provide warmth even when wet. Providing warmth is a given for these materials but can they still hold up to their purpose when exposed to water?

We will try to answer that question for you in a little while. For now, let us learn more about insulators and what they do.

Realted:Everything You Need to Know About Finding and Purifying Water in the Wilderness

The flow of heat is always constant. It flows from a higher temperature to a lower temperature. The job of an insulator is to block the flow of heat from a hotter object to colder ones. This simple process is the fact that you’re kept warm using materials such as cotton and silk which are some of the known insulating materials in clothing.

When broken down, small particles in objects are always moving and are held together by bonds. Small particles of an insulator have very intrepid bonds and they do not move around quickly.

This makes minimal heat transfer from one particle to another, thus making an insulator able to minimize or block the transfer of heat to colder objects.

A simple example is seen in winter clothing with insulating materials to it. Heat is kept inside thus keeping you warm.

We have named some of the best insulators or materials that keep you warm earlier. However, which of them can still have significant insulating capabilities even when exposed to water?

We have found out that the answer to that curious question is wool. Let’s learn more about wool and what makes it such a great insulating material even when we’re wet.

What Is Wool And Can It Keep You Warm Even When Wet?

Wool is an amazing fiber that is obtained from sheep and other animals. It is used in clothing, blankets, rugs, upholstery and many others. The use of wool for different purposes dates back many years ago.

Wool is also known to be the best insulator. As such, it is the best material to provide warmth. But there is more to it than that, aside from providing heat during a cold day. It also cools you down during warm days.

The surprising secret to this is with the wool’s ability to attract water or moisture called hygroscopy. Due to this, it cools the temperature down.

It sucks up the moisture without making you feel wet. And having that ability also allows it to be fire resistant. When exposed or lit with fire, it can self-extinguish. Wool is also known to be a very durable and flexible material.

Aside from being flame-resistant, it is also odour-resistant. It repels mold and mildew and is a renewable product as well. More importantly, wool fiber also has a hydrophobic capability.

The exterior of the wool fiber repels water making it the best material to provide warm even when exposed to water.

Watch this video to see how wool is made.

Wool As A Practical And Useful Fiber

Wool is also considered to be an efficient fiber. It’s easy to clean because the dirt would just usually sit on the surface of the fiber and can be removed that swiftly.

In this case, there is no need for you to perform some heavy washing or laundry. Wool is armed with a natural anti-allergenic feature that allows it not to collect static that attracts dust and dirt.

As such, wool is ideal for those who are veering away from dust or house mites. Today, many users who struggle from asthma or eczema are preferring to buy wool duvets, pillows, and beddings to alleviate their condition.

Meanwhile, wool is difficult to challenge when it comes to its sustainability. It is because it grows as the hair on goats, sheeps, llamas, and rabbits and that it occurs naturally and is also renewable.

Hen wool finally dies down, it is rendered as a bio-degradable soil component, gradually releasing its nutrients in it. Ironically, when you buy a wool blanket, the fabric lasts that long that you can even hand it down to your grand daughters, I kid you not!

Final Thoughts

It is a given that there are many ways to keep yourself warm and that you can find reliable materials to serve this need. However, by using wool as a material to provide warmth, it not only does a fantastic job but offers a lot more too. And as it can aid us even when we’re wet or exposed to water, this fiber is a plus!

Did this article satisfy your curiosity over which material can provide warmth even when wet? Do you have other ideas or suggestions regarding this topic? If you want to share your thoughts with us, you can leave your comments below. We hope to hear from you soon!

More Hunting Gear & Resources

What Is One Advantage Of Hunting From An Elevated Stand

If you’re a seasoned bowhunter who aims for a white-tailed deer or a firearm hunter who guns for a black bear, you must know by now how advantageous it is when you’re hunting from an elevated stand. But for those who are just beginning to set up this kind of strategy, they might not be that equipped yet in regards to the one advantage of hunting from an elevated stand or even exposed to its other benefits. This article will serve as a response to that query: what is one advantage of hunting from an elevated stand.

In our discussion, we’ll also briefly cover what an elevated stand is. In the latter part, we’ll be disclosing the types of elevated stand that you could rely on while hunting and the safety that should come along with them.

More…

Quick NavigationWhat is an elevated stand?So, what is that one advantage of hunting from an elevated stand?Other known advantages of an elevated stand Different types of elevated stands 1.) Hang-on stands (portable tree stand)2.) Climbing stands (portable tree stand)3.) Ladder stands 4.) Tower stands Safety precautions to remember when using an elevated stand Final thoughts

What is an elevated stand?

An elevated stand is the primary hunting choice for most marksmen especially those who are using bows and arrows. This strategically-placed stand is also being used by hunters who prefer the use of firearms.

Perhaps the most common form of an elevated stand is the tree stand. It’s a platform in which you can dock on an elevated part of tree. Virtually every hunter sits on this platform as this can better their shooting and hunting accuracy.

So, what is that one advantage of hunting from an elevated stand?

Unanimously, an elevated stand should give you that improved and better field of vision. This is due to the fact that you’re placed above the ground, giving you a sight that is not hindered by obstructions like logs or thick bushes. And because of this, you’ll be able to spot your targets that easily, without having to deal with other predicaments along the way.

Other known advantages of an elevated stand

Using an elevated stand will give you a vantage point from wandering animals. In this regard, they’ll have difficulty in spotting as you can literally escape these animals’ normal field vision.
The land animals won’t be able to detect your scent as your place is elevated. Applying the same point, these animals won’t be able to see your movements.
When at an elevated stand, the other hunters will be able to see without having to search for you aggressively. On the other hand, these same hunters will be able to avoid their shots away from you.
Elevated stands are very much known to be an excellent backstops. Whether you’re using bullets or arrows, these stands should be able to procure reliable backstops. This is best applicable whenever you’re shooting at a downward angle.
Elevated stands improve your sight-seeing skill. This in turn should enhance your overall hunting experience too.

Different types of elevated stands

1.) Hang-on stands (portable tree stand)

You can watch this video to check on how to hang a tree stand.

2.)Climbing stands (portable tree stand)

Here’s a video clip on how to use a climbing tree stand.

3.) Ladder stands

Watch this clip to learn on how to hang a ladder stand.

4.)Tower stands

This video clip should be able to give you an idea on how a tower stand looks.

Safety precautions to remember when using an elevated stand

The following recommendations should be able to aid you in using your elevated stands safely and more effectively:

When purchasing a commercial elevated stand, ensure that it is manufactured, certified, and tested by and to industry standards.
The elevated stands’ manufacturer’s instruction should all be read and understood. If there’s an included video, watch it thoroughly before using the stand.
You should only use your tree stand in daytime.
Take time as you practice with your tree stand and FAS at a ground level. Make sure that you include all the safety devices that were included with your purchased stand. As you get better with your practice, aim for a higher goal.
Attach your FAS to the designated tree at a ground level. Also, keep it attached throughout your hunt.
Whenever you decide to climb into or out of a tree stand, the three points of contact with your hands and feet should be used accordingly.
A firm hold on the climbing system should be kept as you enter or leave the platform. Meanwhile, don’t let go of it until you’re certain that you’re secure.
Before embarking into using your tree stand, an ample amount of sleep should be achieved.
Secure a signaling device like a whistle, radio or a smartphone so you could communicate with someone whenever there is a problem.
Take your time when installing your elevated stand. Also, plan your every move when you use it. Drastic moves may result to injuries.
Do not leave your stand attached to a tree for more than two weeks as this could become wobbly and eventually malfunction.
Do not exceed the weight limit of your stand. Your total weight should equate your body weight plus your accompanying device.
When climbing the stand, don’t carry anything with your hands or even on your back. You may use a haul line instead.
All your hunting equipment should be raised and lowered on the opposite side of your tree from your climbing route.
Make sure that you use a fall-arrest system when your feet are off the ground. This can help you whenever there is an accidental fall from your tree stand.

Final thoughts

Now that all the advantages of using an elevated stand while hunting are unveiled, it’s crucial that you take into consideration the recommended tips that you need to observe and practice as these could save you from accidental injuries. And whenever you’re in a doubt of when installing, it wouldn’t hurt when you ask someone for help

You can share us your experiences on using your elevated stands by simply sounding them on the comment section below. Be safe and have fun!

How to choose the Best Climbing Sticks – Top Climbing Stick Reviewed on the Market

If there’s one thing that most stand hunters can agree on, it’s the fact that climbing sticks are an awesome way to access your stand. Of course, as with any piece of gear there’s plenty of brand loyalists noise to filter outs. Instead of relying on hearsay, let’s take a look at what makes a climbing stick stand out, and then we’ll show you five of the best climbing sticks on the market.

Product Name	Price	Score
Summit Treestands The Vine Climbing Stick, 23′, Tan	$$$	95/100	View Product
Muddy Pro Sticks (4-Pack), Black	$$$$	92/100	View Product
Lone Wolf 4 – Pc. Climbing Stick	$$$$	90/100	View Product
Guide Gear 20′ Climbing Sticks	$$	87/100	View Product
Ameristep Aluminum Rapid Rails	$$$	83/100	View Product

Top Climbing Sticks Reviewed On The Market

We’ve examined some of the best climbing sticks available. Take a look, one of them is sure to meet the needs of almost any hunter, and we’ll break down the pros and cons for you.

Summit Treestands The Vine Climbing Stick

This climbing stick set from Summit comes with a truly unique and innovative design. It’s designed to resemble vines, which helps it blend in with the natural flora of the area you’re hunting in.

It also features some uniquely designed steps which will allow you to climb much more easily and safely than many of the other options on the market. They also feature a dual-post stability due to their design, which gives confidence to even the most anxious climber.

Of course, this comes at some cost: they’re a bit heavy and they’ll cost you more than some of the other options on this list. They’re also only rated for 260lbs, which is a bit less than you’d ideally want.

If you’re looking for a permanent, stable setup, then the Vine might be exactly what you’re looking for, but most outdoorsmen will find it too cumbersome to set up for temporary hunts.

Pros

Unique, camouflaged design
Extra stable
Holds 260lbs
Easily attached
Designed with safety in mind

Cons

Heavy
Expensive

Muddy Pro Stick (4-Pack), Black

Muddy climbing sticks have acquired quite a reputation in the field, and their Pro Sticks are some of the best. They come with a lightweight construction, with each stick weighing around 2.5lbs and they’re made of aluminum which is sure to last.

The steps here are of a unique design, having protrusions on each side of the stick to allow you a stable platform to climb with.

The locking system is also quite novel, the rope cam mechanism allows you to quietly attach and remove the sticks since there’s no ratchets or buckles involved. It’s also quite safe due to the way the mechanism is constructed.

While attaching and removing them is relatively quiet, some users have reported that the steps themselves have a bit of creak. You can minimize this by moving slowly while climbing, but it’s a concern for heavier people.

The only other concern with these climbing sticks is that the rope that comes with them is only about 20”, which means you’ll have to modify them if you’re in an area with a lot of large trees.

Pros

Super durable construction
Rope cam system
Lightweight
Modular to work on crooked trees
Double steps

Cons

Not suited for larger trees
Steps can creak

Lone Wolf Climbing Sticks

Lone Wolf climbing sticks are a popular brand among experts. It’s easy to see why with this model, as they are lightweight and sturdy, and easily attached.

The steps, while they come in odd numbers, are also reversible which allows them to be versatile while still keeping them lightweight and allowing you to pack them quite easily. They come with a ratcheting strap, which makes them a little bit noisy to set up but they’re surprisingly quiet on the climb.

The weight rating for these climbing sticks is 350lbs, making them suitable for pretty much anyone who would consider using them. Even better, they’re specifically designed to be used with Lone Wolf’s impressive hang on stands, making getting in and out easy.

They’re some of the best around, but you’ll be paying a premium for the cost.

Pros

Can hold up to 350lbs
Specially made stands available
Reversible steps
Lightweight
Easy, secure setup

Cons

Expensive
Odd number of steps can still be disconcerting

Guide Gear 20′ tree Climbing Sticks

These Guide Gear climbing sticks are pretty impressive, considering the low cost. If you’re in an area where the trees tend to be straight, you’re definitely in luck.

There are bound to be some drawbacks with any cheaper product, however, and this shows here. Fortunately, you won’t be cut out in quality. Instead, you’ll have to deal with the fact that these sets are pretty heavy. There are five sections which come in at about 23lbs for the whole set.

They also need to be attached end-to-end, which means that moving around troublesome branches can range from difficult to impossible when you’re setting them up.

The basics are all there, however, and they’re definitely one of the best options around for those of us who can utilize them to their full extent.

For a dedicated setup on private land, they make an amazing and cheap alternative to the more expensive, if somewhat more versatile, options available.

Pros

20’ in height
Durable construction
Angled steps for safety
300lb weight capacity
Low price

Cons

Need to be attached end to end and contact the ground
Heavy

Ameristep Aluminum Rapid Rails Tree Climbing Sticks

The Ameristep Rapid Rails climbing sticks have a unique design which makes them particularly useful if it’s hard to find a tree without outreaching limbs in your favorite stomping grounds. They also forgo having to count steps, incorporating a ladder design which makes them intuitive to place.

The main issue that many hunters might find with them is that it can be hard to get a good amount of height with only one set. Fortunately, the design comes in three packs and they’re made of aluminum which will allow you to carry a good amount of them.

They have a pretty impressive weight capacity as well, they’re rated for 300lbs.

They might be a bit of a pain to set up, however, as each section will have to be placed individually. It’s really not too bad if you have a partner, however.

Overall, for someone who can’t find straight trees in their hunting grounds and is planning on having to hike them in and out for each hunt they’re a solid choice. They’re definitely some of the best portable climbing sticks around.

Pros

Modular pieces
Lightweight and portable
300lb Weight Capacity
Good for with irregular trunks
Ladder design

Cons

May need more than one set
Each piece needs to be set individually

What to Look For in a Best Climbing Stick

These seemingly simple pieces of gear come in a wide array of different prices and shapes, which can make it hard to settle on just one design. The truth is, there are plenty of inferior products on the market. For starters, you’ll want to look at the following:

How Are You Going to Use Your Tree Stand?

Depending on where you’re hunting, you’ll have to plot out if you’re going to be hiking things out each time. Most people who hunt on public land, for instance, are going to be hiking their stand and sticks out each time they hit the trail.

Those on private land might end up leaving their stands up year round if the property owner is amenable to it. In that case, you may want to use some climbing sticks which are heavy duty and can withstand the weather in the area year round, to minimize your costs you may end up going with something which is more of a pain to bring out the first time since you’ll only have to do it once.

Envisioning your usage before trying to find the right ones for your setup is a good idea and can help you decide on the rest of the properties you may want to go with. For the most part, however, they make a good alternative for those who don’t want to haul a ladder.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity is one of the principle concerns that you should be looking out for. Keep in mind that you’ll also be carrying your gear up, and depending on your style that can range from just a bow and a few arrows to a heavy pack.

Always leave some extra weight capacity, just in case on. While manufacturers are generally honest, at least with reputable brands, you don’t want to be pushing the limit on your climbing sticks at any point.

Material

The material is another key consideration when you’re picking out your climbing sticks. They come in a wide variety of materials, and how you’re using your stand is definitely going to affect which material you decide is the ideal one for your set.

In general, you’re going to want to go with metal. Remember that more hunters are injured or killed each year getting to their stands than by anything else. A good set of climbing sticks needs to be sturdy for this reason.

Aluminum is ideal if you’re have to hike them out to use with a hang-on stand each time you go out, while steel is preferable due to its superior durability for long term set-ups.

You’ll also want to look at the finish . Corrosion can weaken metal over time and you may want to lay down a coat of primer to keep the sticks weatherproof. You can also camouflagethings a bit better if you wish when you go that route.

Number of Steps per Section

Always go for an equal number of steps on each section of your sticks. It might not seem to be an important consideration, but if you’re attaching them to a tree with an irregular trunk you’re might end up in trouble without an even number of steps when you have to place the next step.

This will keep you climbing in a left/right configuration the entire time, and allow a much easier climb.

Attachment Setup

There are a couple of different types of attachment setups that help you attach your ladder to a tree. Most of the better ones will have a strap setup, which is usually intuitive to use.

There are two basic kinds of straps you’ll run into. Pull straps will allow you to pull them tight around the trunk. This setup is inherently a little bit less stable than a ratchet strap, but also goes up more quietly which might be crucial when you’re working on a portable build.

Ratchets make more noise but are generally much more secure. Opt for them in any case when you’re planning on making a semi-permanent attachment to a tree.

Either way, you need to be safe which means you’ll want to wear a harness while you’re going up to prevent injury.

How the sticks fit together is also crucial, especially if your stand is particularly high. Some sets can be built upon almost indefinitely, meaning you can gain more height by stacking more sticks. You’ll probably want to make sure that you can do this if you’re planning on being higher than most hunters.

Height

Most climbing sticks will come in at 14’ or 20’. You’ll almost always want to opt for at least 20’ if you’re hunting with a bow, although those who use stands for rifle hunting may be able to get away with being a little bit lower due to the increased range of their weapons.

Our Recommendation

For our money, there are two different routes you might end up going with climbing sticks.

If you have an established, permanent location for a stand, then you definitely want to go with the Summit Treestands The Vine Climbing Stick. They’ll hold up for a long time, but they’re not something you want to hike out multiple times in a season. They’re also incredibly safe sticks, so you can rely on them.

If you’re hiking your sticks out each time, then Ameristep Aluminum Rapid Rails Ameristep Aluminum Rapid Rails sticks are a great setup. The unique ladder design and quick strapping will allow you to place yourself wherever you might need to be, and they’re very light, which adds to the convenience.

Conclusion

If you’re hunting from a tree stand, then knowing your way around these handy little devices is pretty much essential. Making sure you get the best climbing sticks possible isn’t as hard as you might have thought, however, and there’s certainly something out there for everyone.

Have your favorite brand? Let us know below! We’d love to hear your feedback and your hunting stories (every hunter loves to talk about their adventures, let’s not kid ourselves).