Question: I see lots of different clothes when I go on SIB activities. Do you have any you especially like and would recommend to me?
Answer: Variations of this question are often asked during our activities. Even the “trip leaders” ask this question of others. So the suggestions below are just some opinions and not any formal recommendation.
One day we had a LONG discussion about color. Before I went on a birding tour, the tour company sent a note suggesting “to wear earth tones (save white t-shirts or other bright colors for the evenings) in the field as bright colors can scare some of the more secretive birds.” I generally lean towards earth tones while birding but a more definitive discussion of color is a topic for another day.
Pants
On one of the latest walks, Gina wore a new pair of pants. The “Go There Pants” from Gnara have the unique feature of a zipper not only in the front but also starting in the back. This feature makes for easier stops behind the bushes.
Nancy prefers the “Water-Repellent Comfort Trail Pants, Mid-Rise Straight Legs” from L.L. Bean. Even in one household there are varying opinions….Flo likes Eddie Bauer’s “Women’s Guide Pro Pants“.
Judy and Jennifer both like Columbia Sports pants. Jennifer likes their “Saturday Trail Pants” while Judy likes the “Silver Ridge Convertible Pants”.
Regardless of the preferred pants, all agreed that features considered were light weight for easy drying (and cooler in the summer) and pockets.
Shoes
No surprise that shoes were also discussed. Hiking boots were preferred for long days with both Merrill and Keen being mentioned multiple times. Waterproof for those wet trails and dewy mornings were desirable features. A downside of waterproof boots is that feet can’t breath either so the boots can be warm. A midday change of socks is sometimes desirable.
Tops
Specific recommendations were not found for tops. Comfort, sunscreen and ability to layer were mentioned. Several people have the Columbia Sports long sleeve shirts that button up the front with roll-up sleeves. This provides flexibility in one garment. Another favorite is by Orvis. Both brands are light weight and provide sun protection. I also have several long sleeve tees with hoods that I wear over short sleeve tees in summer. They are light enough weight to be relatively cool and keep the sun and bugs from my skin.
Comfort is the most important feature in any birding clothes. Therefore, what works best for you is a very personal decision.
Submitted by: Judy Morr