Finding the Right Gear

Part 1: Outdoor Clothing

Part 1 in the series Finding the Right Gear. Part 2 - Finding the Right Gear - Equipment.

For most female wildlife photographers, finding suitable outdoor gear can, at times, be very frustrating.  Just look in outdoor wear catalogs such as Cabela's or REI's and you'll soon discover that out of all the pages, there might be six pages with apparel designed for women.  And out of those six pages, there might be three or four items designed to fit petite women.  Believe me, this can makes things very difficult.  Over the years, I have been able to locate a few things, such as gloves and hip waders, which are perfect for wildlife photography.

Best Bets

• Gloves (cool weather): Lowepro Photo Gloves - size M (small not available) or Windstopper Gloves (Outdoor Research PS 100).
• Gloves (cold weather): Combination of WindStopper Glove Liners and Cross-country Thinsulate gloves (Yoko or Swix) OR for those who need to change film vs digital card, Glomitts, a combination of gloves and mittens.
• Photo Vests (for traditional wildlife photographers): Vested Interest Vest or the "Naturalist" - available at the Nature Company
• Extra Pocket (for digital wildlife photographers) - LowePro Camera Pocket or Porta Pocket
• Waders: Cabela's neoprene chest waders (petite sizes available) or LaCross hip waders.
• Hiking Boots: Vasque or Lowa are excellent choices.
• Socks - SmartWool are by far my favorite sock for the entire year.
• Vest & Jacket (down to freezing) - Nomar's line of fleece, wind blocker vests and jackets are lightweight and wonderful!
• Coat - Any of the nicer water-proof coats with removable liner and windblocker features are great... don't forget the hood.
• Bug Shirts & Hats - These can really help when you're in a swampy area or in bug-infested areas. Try the new Exofficio BugAway™ Shirt with treated material.

Resources

• Cabela's - They have one of the widest selections of outdoor clothing for women.
• REI-OUTLET - Great source for outdoor clothing and gear.
• Big Pockets - Another source for specialized outdoor clothing

© Copyright 2006 Jan A. Allinder / Lucid Images Wildlife Photography LLC

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