Winter Equine Camping
very real dangers of hypothermia all equipment must be absolutely top quality and in perfect working order. For personal equipment the most important would be a VERY high quality sleeping bag made of modern waterproof yet breathable materials that has a comfort rating of zero degrees Fahrenheit. Not only will this make your trip a lot more comfortable under normal circumstances, but it could literally become a lifesaver if you must use it as an emergency shelter in severe conditions.”
What about clothing?
“Second on my list would be high quality riding clothes. Your clothes will be used not only for insulation to retain body heat but to also repel snow and rain. Starting at the top, where as much as 20% of all body heat is lost through your uncovered head. Wear either a wide brimmed wool/fur hat or a knit stocking type cap under your riding helmet. Wear a polypropylene type undershirt under your riding shirt and then top this off with a water-repelling long coat such as an insulated slicker or best of all an oilskin duster. Pants should also be of a non-absorbent or water shedding material. Cotton pants (blue jeans) are definitely out since once they become wet they will not dry quickly and will actually wick heat away from your body. Here again your oilskin coat will protect your legs as will the wearing of chaps. Your footwear in cold weather also becomes very important. Select heavy insulated socks or two pairs of lighter socks and then consider the purchase of "pac" type boots that have rubber bottom and leather uppers. This style of boot usually has a thick felt insulating liner that will keep your feet both dry and warm. The secret to staying warm and dry in cold/wet weather is to have several light layers of clothing that you can add or remove as necessary to adjust your temperature not just a heavy coat.”
Anything else?
“Yes, is very important to carry a quality emergency kit which includes at a minimum a first aid kit, fire starting material, a signaling device, high energy food bars and a flashlight.”
What about the type of horses or mules to bring? Do you have any preferences?
“I think it is good to know that a healthy, fit, and well fed unclipped horse/mule can tolerate the cold weather in fine shape. As long as you can keep them well fed (mine had
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