Hello all, so after years of dreaming and planning, I finally decided that this is the year for my son and I to go on our first safari. Now all the anticipation and planning for our trip this June. We are going to Sebra in Namibia and one of the first items is boots and clothes. I’m looking for recommendations on boots and clothes to wear for our hunt. We have mostly Sitka and Kuiu for our Weatern hunts but just wondering what most people wear. Thanks for the help!!!

ddj

Hunting clothes in Africa is generally pretty easy. Neutral colors. Boots depend on the terrain.

For me, I use Carhart jeans (they come in green or brown and either will work). I use TAG for shirts; their dye colors aren't that consistent, but that doesn't matter either. My favorite boots are Courtney's but I'm flat footed and they just fit me. I've hunted in Russell's and Merrell's as well and they were good. Russell's are not an option for you due to your time frame.

I would take two pair of boots and generally not the same boots. That way if you get a hot spot, you won't have the same hot spot the next day, but that's not a problem if your boots are fully broken in. Last trip, I took two pair of Courtney's.

Clothes are easy. Just think green or brown. Focus on the boots.

Lavaca nailed it. Don’t take clothes made of synthetic materials. The ironing method will melt them.

Pack a jacket for mornings and evenings on the back of the truck. Terrain can matter for boots. I took the wrong ones. I also have Courtney boots, but took Browning kangaroo bird shooting boots. My Courtney boots never seem to stay tied. Gaiters if wearing shorts, which could help my Courtney issue. Despite a pile of “hunting” boots, I picked up an $80 pair of Keen boots at Academy and they seem to work well.

Have a great time.

Pith helmet is a must.

Check this list:

http://forums.accuratereloadin...22101325/m/869101261

Wear or carry on your hunting boots and one pair of hunting clothes.

I’ve been to Namibia during June on 3 different trips. One thing to keep in mind, it can get surprisingly cold. On one trip the temps reached the low 20’s F. I have a pic of my son pulling ice out of a water trough at noon. On another trip, we had one morning that was cloudy and about 28 F with winds at 20 to 30 mph. That made for a very chilly ride in back of the hunting truck.

We also had sunny days in the high 70’s, but the temps cooled down quickly once the sun goes down. If you are riding in the back of the truck, bring a jacket for afternoon hunts.

As the previous posters have mentioned, bring boots that are already broken in. Depending on your hunt you may be walking a lot.

I’ve never had problems with synthetic clothing. I’ve done some late season hunts in October and November, and the synthetic clothing was perfect.

I have been to Namibia in June.

Take a jacket, you will need it in the morning. After a couple hours you will not need it again for the day.

Look at what you have.
The following is in addition to what you wear for the flight. I tend to dress like a regular tourist. These clothing are washed and pressed at camp for your return flight home.

For hunting
1. Good pair of worn shoes, something you can wear all day. I like Keen & Merrill's hiking boots.
2. 3 Pair of medium or heavy socks. Usually you return to camp for lunch and take a 2 hour break, I change socks at that time.
3. 2 Pair of wrangler black or dark blue jeans
4. 2 Shirts, Green, Grey, Brown, Tan solid or checkered will work. If you watch enough African videos you will find that anything from White to Black has been worn.
5. 1 jacket
6. Hat or Cap of your choice.
7. 2 to 3 under garments, shorts/t-shirts
8. sleep wear
9. Shower slippers. they work as going to the fire pit.
10. gloves if you have issues with the chilly mornings.

You can use all the same clothing and boots you use to hunt in the states. Just pack for temps in the morning as low as 30 and could get to 80 on a hot day in june. Layers are best and just go have fun dont make it harder then it is with over thinking you need special gear to hunt namibia

Camo is generally not an option in Africa....reserved for military folks.

Sounds like a fashion show..I wear Wranglers, brown kiki Long sleeve shirts, tennis (walking shoes0 that are mesh and dry out quickly from a wade in the water..thick socks, a med Jaket for morning drives to the hunting area..Don't wear anything white or camo..band aids and chamois skin patches.Baseball cap.Much of this stuff can be left in camp for the staff and is appreciated, such as the tennis shoes, caps whatever..If in a bug Tetsi fly, mosque area take some black electricians tape to tape cuffs and ankles and bug spray. thelist goes on..

Your outfitter should provide you with a list...

I will second those who've noted the surprisingly cold weather one can encounter once the sun goes down.

Bring layers, so you can put them on and peel them off as needed.

And make sure your outermost layer is very warm!

quote:

Pith helmet is a must.

A, NOOOOOOOOO! As far as boots, I have eight pair of Courtneys and have worn them on a dozen or so African hunts. Good boots, but today I prefer my Kenetrek high top Ridge Runners. Just make sure that your boots are thorn proof or somewhat so. Namibia is also famously rocky and you'll want something with ankle support for sure. I'm also a huge KUIU fan, but leave them home and go with some of the recommendations above. Jeans, cargo pants and shorts, short sleeve and long sleeve shirts that won't be ruined by their primitive or modern irons. And yes, a coat is a must, along with some gloves for cold mornings and even a neck gaiter would be useful. A vest like a your KUIU or Sitka would be a good idea and likely won't need to be washed during your hunt, so you might take it. Sun glasses, ball caps, etc. for sure. Good luck and have a great time!

DCS and others raised important issues about it being cold, especially in the morning. That's true anywhere, but it can be really cold in Namibia. So definitely take some warm clothes. I like sweaters because they are quiet, but they do get caught up in thorns, so consider the terrain. I've also used a military surplus field jacket and it worked very well. You can include the liner if you're hunting in Namibia in winter or if you are someplace that's not going to be that cold, you won't need the liner.

As to boots coming untied, I double tie and wear gaiters even with long pants and that solves that problem.

Also, buy good socks and take a blister kit and a roll of duct tape, If you get blisters, those can save a hunt, but the duct tape will destroy the socks so take enough.

Finally, plenty of sun screen and a broad brimmed hat. Protects better than a cap. Cloth hat is better because it is more comfortable and whatever hat you wear, you'll probably sweat it through.

There's a pretty good packing list on this forum in the Africa research forum. Your outfitter will probably provide one as well.

quote:

Originally posted by Biebs:
Camo is generally not an option in Africa....reserved for military folks.

Have wear in on all 7 trips so far with no problems at all. Only hunted SA and nanmibia though

We have had friends hunt with camo.

No problems at all.

The past few hunts I have been wearing UNIONBAY cargo trousers.

Great, as they have plenty of pockets, which I like.

Shirts any short sleeve in suitable colors, cotton.

I never wear boots, I wear walking shoes.

I carry a jacket in the truck for when it gets cold.

quote:

Originally posted by lavaca:
Hunting clothes in Africa is generally pretty easy. Neutral colors. Boots depend on the terrain.

For me, I use Carhart jeans (they come in green or brown and either will work). I use TAG for shirts; their dye colors aren't that consistent, but that doesn't matter either. My favorite boots are Courtney's but I'm flat footed and they just fit me. I've hunted in Russell's and Merrell's as well and they were good. Russell's are not an option for you due to your time frame.

I would take two pair of boots and generally not the same boots. That way if you get a hot spot, you won't have the same hot spot the next day, but that's not a problem if your boots are fully broken in. Last trip, I took two pair of Courtney's.

Clothes are easy. Just think green or brown. Focus on the boots.

I couldn't have said it any better. This is hwat I do as well. My Courtney Selous boots are the most comfortable boots I have ever worn. One more tip: to prevent blisters wear two pairs of socks - Coolmax liners under wool outers.

Have a great hunt!

It might be an idea to take some jel stick on bits.

These are available in pharmacies.

They come in different shapes and thickness.

I use them on my leather slippers.

These almost always have some sharp area.

Cutting one of these to the right shape and sticking on the sharp parts eliminate any discomfort.

I wore LL bean hunting boots water proof and comfortable. Pull over and a shirt under. Pants comfortable slacks. 2 sets are enough.

Trout hunter DJ: I guarantee you you’ll have a great hunt with Jan at Sebra. I’ve hunted FIVE times with Jan and #6 is scheduled for July this year. You’ll also eat like a king- Jan’s wife Mariesje is a true gourmet cook. In term of clothing, I wear 100% cotton Carrhart heavy pants in light green or tan colors. Synthetic fibers will be melted by the hot irons Jan’s maids use. Long sleeved 100% cotton shirts in light green or khaki color work well. LL Bean has a nice long sleeved Safari shirt. You’ll roll them up by noontime as it warms up. My boots are Browning green kangaroo leather. My backup footwear are hiking sneakers- nothing fancy. I’ve published Hunting Reports here on AR- my most recent Report was For my 2019 hunt. PM me if you have any questions.

quote:

The past few hunts I have been wearing UNIONBAY cargo trousers.

Great, as they have plenty of pockets, which I like.

Shirts any short sleeve in suitable colors, cotton.

I never wear boots, I wear walking shoes.

I carry a jacket in the truck for when it gets cold.

Yep. Good advice. I have a pair of Union Bay cargo shorts on right now, as it's 72 degrees and sunny here at home. The only addition to Saeed's list would be some shoe gaiters to keep out the weeds, seeds and other itchy things that could get in your socks. As to the shoes, make sure they're high topped to avoid sprains. Courtneys are fine, if you want to do and feel like you're doing the African thing, but others are just as good. When I have worn my Courtneys I've had to place orthotics in them in order to make them more comfortable. Most PHs that I know don't wear Courtneys. And, for those of us that are susceptible to skin cancers, a broad hat is advisable. I can attest to the skin cancer thing from numerous surgeries regarding the same from years of exposure to the sun.

Boots are the most important. That is true.

I used to wear Eccos all the time and everywhere.

But they failed me on my last safari.

Maybe they changed the design? I don't know. But I gave them away.

Now, I wear Kenetreks.

The best I have tried to date.

quote:

Now, I wear Kenetreks.

The best I have tried to date.

Amen, brother, amen!

Take care of your feet and don't get sunburned. You'll have fun.

Kennetreck boots have been the best for me. I use an ankle high boots and wear gaiters. Carthart jeans and shorts work great. Neutral color cotton long sleeve shirts or short sleeve depending on personal preference. In Namibia a coat for mornings is a must. One thing I learned in countries where malaria is present take some gloves. I was sun sensitive due to the meds I was taking. My hands were burning till I managed to trade one of the trackers for his cotton gloves. Never forgot to bring a pair after that experience.

trouthunterdj,

Brands of clothes aren't particularly important but do buy pants and shirts in earth tones and soft fabric that will not be noisy if you are going through the bush. I like all cotton in long pants and long sleeve shirts. You can always roll up the sleeves if you are too hot or down if your are getting too much sun. Long pants will keep trash out of your socks "Safari clothes" are not necessary.

Boots should be lightweight hikers. I like the models that come up over the ankle for support. Also the soles should be be soft and flat. This will make you less noisy in the bush.

I agree that you should wear something on the trip over that can be used for hunting in case your kit does not arrive with you. Also do not arrive in a brand new full "safari" outfit you'll be a mark in the airport and you'll look like a dork.

Mark

Mark,

Agreed. When hunting leopard, I generally travel in a black shirt. A black shirt works well in a leopard blind.

Wranglers, Carhartt's or Duluth FireHose Flex all work well for long pants.

Medium Height Hikers or trail runners work well for footwear. I used Merrell Moab2's on my last trip. Boots, like would be used for elk or mule deer hunting, are overkill. You do not need or want a taller and heavier boot like that.

quote:

Originally posted by nmhunter4life:
Wranglers, Carhartt's or Duluth FireHose Flex all work well for long pants.

Medium Height Hikers or trail runners work well for footwear. I used Merrell Moab2's on my last trip. Boots, like would be used for elk or mule deer hunting, are overkill. You do not need or want a taller and heavier boot like that.

All good options for pants, make sure they are broken in or take Gold Bond. Take GB anyway.

Make sure your clothes are slightly loose, you will gain weight. As Bud said, Mariesje is a fantastic cook.
Comfortable well fitting boots are key.
Jan is an outstanding PH and person, and you will have fun.
I hunted with him almost 8 years ago and got a very nice leopard and gemsbok, as well as a warthog and a couple of baboons.

I must disagree with UEG and Tim on packing shorts to hunt on Sebra’s properties. I wore shorts on my first trip to Sebra in 2012. After a day in the ever-present thorns, my legs looked like I got in a fight with several of the Leopards that live on Jan’s farm. In addition, the drive out to the bush in early mornings can be colder than my mother-in-law’s kiss. When I hunted there in July 2015 there was ice of the waterholes in the morning. The baboons and guineafowls all disappeared in the cold mornings but magically reappear after the sun comes up after noontime.

Bud, my good friend, you have ever so sensitive legs! Here's mine from a Namibian Mountain Zebra and Damarland dik dik hunt. For the faint of heart, a good warm blanket with you on or in the truck, also helps in the early morning.

I take cotton canvas 5.11 pants. Inexpensive and survives the ironing.
https://www.511tactical.com/51...tiondefault_products


For shirts TAG safari.

Boots I use Russell's but impossible to get in time for your hunt if in 2022. So, get what you are comfortable with.

Here is a pic with my Safari wear.

UEG: Judging by your bloody bare legs it looks like your motto is: “Whip me, beat me, make me cash bad checks”!

quote:

Originally posted by Use Enough Gun:
Bud, my good friend, you have ever so sensitive legs! Here's mine from a Namibian Mountain Zebra and Damarland dik dik hunt. For the faint of heart, a good warm blanket with you on or in the truck, also helps in the early morning.

Bloody hell!

Glad you are not a woman!

You would die a virgin!

quote:

UEG: Judging by your bloody bare legs it looks like your motto is: “Whip me, beat me, make me cash bad checks”!

I've had worse. Nothing to it my friend, nothing to it!

quote:

Bloody hell!

Glad you are not a woman!

You would die a virgin!

Damn, Saeed, you are a funny man! Hey, the legs of an lawyer who spends all day in a suit out of the sun locked in an office. And, a Scandanavian DNA'd, blue eyed, fair skinned one at that. What do you expect?! But, it doesn't stop me from wearing safari shorts and gaiters and enjoying some of that African winter sun.

We were up in the mountains in the Alps.

Some British soldiers were wearing funny clothes with their legs bare.

They had a professional photographer taking pictures of them.

I said “there is a song that goes NICE LEGS, SHAME ABOUT THE FACE”.

“I cannot say that about you lot!”

They all burst out laughing!

I would not use a mesh or tennis shoe style boot. The thorns will easily stick through the mesh. Leather is best.

quote:

Originally posted by Capt.Purvis:
I would not use a mesh or tennis shoe style boot. The thorns will easily stick through the mesh. Leather is best.

I have been wearing normal walking shoes.

Light weight leather with ventilation holes or cloth.

Never had any problems with thorns.

Funny enough I was worried at first, but, it never bothered me.

Thorns can be bad.

On some safaris, I have had to use my Leatherman tool to pull them out of the soles of my boots on a regular basis.

On others, they have been nonexistent.