by Ty Hinds

When you think about whitetail hunting, the first images that come to mind might be chilly mornings and frosty breaths, but that wasn't the case on my recent trip to Texas. This early-season whitetail hunt was anything but cold—it was a scorcher, with temperatures climbing to 92 degrees in the afternoon, not to mention the humidity that seemed to cling to everything.

whitetail hunting in texas

Under these conditions, I needed gear that wouldn't weigh me down or add to the discomfort. Here’s how the BlackOvis gear I used made a difference in the heat. This combined with LOTS of water in the blind and a hand towel kept me comfortable. Well, most of the time. 

Cottonwood Creek Pant
When temperatures soar, choosing the right pant is crucial. The Cottonwood Creek Pant delivered exactly what I needed: lightweight, breathable fabric that kept me cool even during the hottest part of the day. It’s made with highly breathable material that allows for good airflow. The pants articulated knees and comfortable fit made it easy to move quietly through the brush, whether I was setting up in the blind or sneaking closer to a promising spot.

Venture 150 Merino Short Sleeve
Merino wool is known for its natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties, making the Venture 150 Merino Short Sleeve perfect for this hunt. It kept me cool and comfortable by regulating my body temperature and allowing for air circulation, even under the hot Texas sun. Plus, merino wool's odor-resistant properties meant I didn’t have to worry too much about body odor and stinking up the blind! 

Venture Merino Boxer
Comfort starts with the base layers, and the Venture Merino Boxer was my go-to. Made from the same lightweight merino wool as the Venture top, it was perfect for keeping things cool down under, and the moisture-wicking properties kept me mostly dry despite the intense humidity. This was a game-changer for staying comfortable during long sits in the blind.

Shred Lightweight Sock
Your choice of socks matters a lot, especially when temperatures climb and sweat becomes a factor. The Shred Lightweight Sock was ideal for this hunt. Its breathable design and moisture management features kept my feet from getting overly sweaty, which prevented blisters and ensured I stayed comfortable throughout the day.

Hades 1000 Lumen Headlamp
While most of the focus was on staying cool during the day, navigating in low light and staying as quiet as possible was crucial  The Hades 1000 Lumen Headlamp was perfect for early mornings and late evenings. Its bright, adjustable light helped me safely navigate the trail to and from my blind, and the removable and rechargeable battery is a bonus for convenience.

Final Thoughts:
If you’re heading out for an early-season whitetail hunt in a warm climate, having the right gear is essential. The BlackOvis products I brought with me helped me beat the heat, stay comfortable, and stay focused on the hunt. When every ounce of sweat matters, gear that keeps you cool and dry isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.