Toasty Test

A couple of upcoming outings will put some new warm gear to the test. Fishing tomorrow with Dad and Jon Ray on the Manistee river. Supposed to be a little warm-up, but still topping out in the low 30's with some wind in the forecast. Then on Monday evening, some duck hunting on Walpole Island, ON. Forecast calls for a high of 16 and "blustery".

This will be a great opportunity to try out the Columbia Scrape insulated neoprene boots and Gallatin wool jacket. Thus far I've worn the jacket a little bit and it's been surprisingly warm and windproof. Seems to have all the classic characteristics of wool. But the true test is a full day out on the river and sundown in a duck blind. My last trip duck hunting was a 45 degree day, but once that sun went down it got cold FAST. And when you're just sitting, things chill quickly. For extra insurance, I added a pair of $6 wool insoles to the boots. They seem even more comfortable than before, and warmer.

Early indications seem good, but we'll see. I do know that being cold saps the fun out of virtually anything. I think these two key additions will be most helpful.

-Sean-