What Gear Do I Need to Hunt Upland Birds?

Like every activity, upland bird hunting requires all sorts of specialized gear. In addition to the basics, like a selection of shotguns, chokes, appropriate shells, and gun-carrying cases, hunters should also have a well-designed hunting vest, a lightweight, comfortable pair of boots, and a pair of upland hunting pants. And that’s before you even consider owning an upland hunting dog and all of the hunting dog gear.

But as a hunter, you likely already own a shotgun or two that can get you started upland hunting. So let’s focus on some of the required gear that may differ from gear worn in other types of shooting sports: upland vests, boots, and pants.

The Best Upland Vest

There are all sorts of things you'll want to take with you into the field: shotgun shells, water bottles, snacks, a mini first-aid kit, a compass, your hunting license, and on and on. A well-designed upland hunting vest can carry it all within easy reach, allowing you to spend more time focused on hunting.

The most important feature this vest should have is lots of pockets. Some should zip shut to keep your wallet, hunting license, and car keys secure. Others should be easy to open and access with just one hand. Elastic shell loops are crucial. Enough to carry 10 to 15 rounds should be plenty. And a button-closing front is something else you'll want. It's easy to adjust (and fix) and most buttons won't damage the stock on your gun (a metal zipper will).

You also want a vest with a bird pouch on the back to carry any game you're lucky enough to get. This pouch will get messy, so be sure it opens for easy cleaning. As for the entire vest, be sure it's made of fabric that's also easy to clean as well as rugged enough to stand up to seasons of wear without shredding apart.

When bird hunting, you should wear whatever’s comfortable under your vest. A short- or long-sleeved shooting shirt is the most common choice, but a sun shirt, merino quarter-zip, or fleece hoodie can work too. 

Be Kind To Your Feet: Wear The Right Hunting Boots

When you're in the field, you're on your feet. And your feet take a beating, every step you take. It's important to protect them with a pair of lightweight, comfortable hunting boots.

The Best Exterior For A Hunting Boot

For the outside of your boots, think armor. They should be made of a rugged fabric and/or a high-quality leather. But they should breathe, too, so perspiration can evaporate before it soaks your socks and chills your feet. Something else to keep in mind: Rubber boots, or boots with rubber bottoms, can't, and don't, breathe.

The Right Type of Lining And Hunting Boot Height

On the inside, a bit of lining or padding is nice, but not necessary. Waterproof boots usually have a thin, quilted lining, which is fine. For most of you, insulation won't be an issue. Upland hunting means moving. If you're heading out late in the season, you may want to pick a pair of colder-weather boots. But don't go crazy. Heavily insulated boots are heavy. At the end of the day, you'll notice how this extra weight tires you out. 

As far as height goes, taller boots have their advantages: They rise up under your pants and keep twigs and vines from tugging at and untying your laces (which should be long). Wear shorter boots, and you may find your laces coming undone all the time.

The Best Hunting Boot Sole

Be sure the soles of your hunting boots are aggressive, with a tread that looks like it can bite into the ground and hold on. Mud and rocks can be slick, and a good tread will chew through and give your feet purchase on precarious surfaces.

Why Upland Hunting Pants Are Better Than Jeans

A lot of bird hunters wear jeans, but it’s not recommended. Most bird hunters would leave their Levi's at home if they tried a pair of upland hunting pants. A good pair of upland pants is generously cut, so you can stretch and move in them without any tugging or pinching. They also have deep pockets, so anything stowed in them stays in them all day long.

Upland hunting pants' biggest benefit is their double-lined fronts. They beat back the tangles and brush you'll find yourself pushing through—especially if you chase grouse and woodcock. Double-lined fronts will also keep your pants from tearing and wearing out and your legs from looking like a cat's scratch pole at day's end. 

Their last benefit is their water resistance. If you hunt early in the morning, dew will pick up on your pants. With a double front, this dew won't result in you walking around wet all day. 

Pro Tip: Buy your upland pants an inch short in the legs and a size bigger in the waist. That way, they won't drag through the mud and grime and you'll have extra room to tuck in a heavy, insulated shirt.

Don't Forget The Blaze Orange Clothing

Along with these must-haves, every upland hunter should wear blaze orange. It's a simple way to stay safe, and a lot of states require it (so check your state's regulations). Most hunting vests have some blaze orange on them. To this, add a blaze orange hat and maybe even a shirt—especially if you're on ground that's crowded with other hunters. It's smart insurance, and if it saves you from injury, well worth it.

Camo is a popular print for hunting layers, but it’s not required, and most upland bird-hunting clothing comes in solid khaki colors with those patches of blaze orange for added safety. 

While it’s easy to collect a lot of gear for upland hunting, it is possible to ease into the sport. Pick up a good vest, boots, and pants, and you’ll be well on your way to comfortable and successful upland hunts.