The foundation of your layering system starts with the right base layers. Opt for lightweight and moisture-wicking wool base layers that provide excellent insulation and help regulate your body temperature. These base layers trap air close to your skin, keeping you warm in chilly conditions and cool when the temperature rises. They also have the added benefit of naturally resisting odors, ensuring freshness throughout your adventures.
Mid-layers serve as the insulation layer, providing additional warmth and heat retention. Choose wool mid-layers, such as wool sweaters or fleeces, that offer excellent insulation properties while allowing for breathability. These mid-layers can be easily added or removed based on the temperature and activity level, allowing you to adapt to changing conditions.
The outer layer is your first line of defense against wind, rain, and snow. Invest in a high-quality wool jacket, anorak, pants or cape that is windproof, water-resistant, and breathable. This outer layer will provide protection from the elements while allowing moisture to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout your outdoor adventures.
One of the key advantages of wool gear is its ability to regulate body temperature. Adjusting your layering system based on your activity level and the outside temperature is crucial. During high-intensity activities, consider removing a layer to prevent overheating. When taking a break or in colder conditions, add a layer to retain heat. Listen to your body and fine-tune your layering system accordingly to maintain optimal comfort.
Mastering the art of layering with wool gear is the secret to staying comfortable in the great outdoors. By utilizing base layers, mid-layers, and outer layers strategically, you can regulate your body temperature and protect against the elements. Remember to adjust your layers based on activity level and weather conditions to optimize your comfort and enhance your outdoor adventures. With wool gear as your ally, you'll be well-prepared for any outdoor excursion.
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When I found out that I would be participating in Alone, a History Channel show where contestants are left to fend for themselves in the wilderness, I knew that I needed as much natural fiber clothing as possible, including wool and animal furs such as my trusty reindeer parka. Previously, I had mostly sourced my wool garments from thrift stores and bargain bins, but the extreme conditions I would be facing in the Arctic called for something more fitting to the task ahead.
Enter Micklagaard, a family-run company based in Sweden that creates exceptional wool garments. Let me tell you a little bit about why I love wool:
When it comes to temperature regulation, wool is unparalleled. Its natural ability to insulate by trapping air pockets within its fibers keeps you warm in cold conditions, while in warm conditions, it is able to absorb and release moisture, helping to keep your body at a comfortable temperature. These same properties also allow wool to maintain its insulating abilities even when wet, making it an ideal material for outdoor enthusiasts.
As I trekked through the Arctic wilderness in search of sustenance, I was constantly on the lookout for tracks and signs of potential game. With survival dependent on my ability to procure food from the land, I needed to be ready at any moment to go into "hunting mode." Wool garments were essential to my success, as they are quiet and resistant to snagging and ripping. Unlike synthetic fibers that create a scratchy sound when rubbing against each other, wool moves silently, allowing me to move undetected.
Returning to my shelter after a long day of hunting, trapping, and gathering, one of the first things I would do was start a fire to warm up. The fire was often very close to me, as I cooked my food, dried my clothes, and snuggled close to the flames. Synthetic fibers, like those in my sleeping bag, are easily damaged by embers from the fire. However, I never had to worry about my wool clothing, as it is naturally fire-resistant, allowing me to cook, work, and sleep without fear of damaging my clothes.
Another advantage of wool that is often overlooked in extreme conditions is its antibacterial properties. Wool helps to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria, making it a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts who don't have the luxury of frequent showers.
As a participant in Season 7 of Alone and Alone Frozen, I have experienced some of the harshest conditions imaginable. With the goal of surviving 100 days in the Arctic wilderness with only 10 items, choosing the right gear was essential. Micklagaard's wool products, including my Anorak Abisko and Harma Professional Pants, played a crucial role in helping me survive for 89 days in some of the most extreme winter conditions.
In conclusion, I can't recommend Micklagaard's wool products enough. Whether you're facing extreme winter conditions or just looking for high-quality, versatile gear for your next outdoor adventure, I highly recommend giving them a try. In fact, I am not the only contestant on Alone to choose Miclaggaard clothing fact, when I returned to Alone Frozen, my fellow contestants were all clamoring to get their hands on the wool pants that had served me so well.
Joe, myself, Amós, and Woniya all chose to bring Micklagaard pants on Alone Frozen. Now that is a good endorsement! The word is out, and every season more Alone contestants choose to wear Micklagaard’s amazing wool clothing.
]]>In this post, we'll explore how to choose the right wool hunting pants made from Wadmal fabric for different hunting environments.
For mid-season hunting, look for wool hunting pants made from Wadmal fabric that provide both insulation and breathability, with features such as reinforced knees and cargo pockets that come in handy when trekking through rough terrain.
When choosing wool hunting pants made from Wadmal fabric, consider the fit and features. Look for pants with a comfortable, adjustable waistband, comfort in the crotch area, and articulated knees to provide freedom of movement. Additionally, wool hunting pants made from Wadmal fabric with cargo pockets and reinforced knees can be useful for carrying gear and protecting against wear and tear.
At Micklagaard, we offer a wide range of wool hunting pants made from Made in Sweden Wadmal fabric suitable for different hunting environments for both men and women. Our wool hunting pants provide exceptional warmth, durability, and wind resistance, making them an excellent choice for your next hunting adventure.
When choosing the right pair of wool hunting pants made from Wadmal fabric, it's important to consider the various features and fit that will provide maximum comfort and protection.
Whether you're hunting in early or late season, or in rugged mountain terrain, our high-quality wool hunting pants made from Wadmal fabric will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable.
So, whether you're a male or female hunter, trust in Micklagaard to provide you with the best wool hunting pants for your needs.
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Moose hunting is a popular and challenging activity for hunters around the world. These majestic animals can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and are known for their elusive behavior. Hunting moose requires patience, skill, and the right gear. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips on how to hunt moose and how wool hunting gear can help you during your hunting day.
Before you set out on your moose hunting trip, it’s important to know the moose’s habitat and behavior. Moose are typically found in wooded areas near water sources such as lakes and rivers. They are active during the early morning and late afternoon hours and tend to rest during the middle of the day. Moose are also known to be very sensitive to human activity and can easily detect hunters who are not careful.
To hunt moose effectively, you need the right equipment. A high-powered rifle with a scope is essential, as moose are large animals that require a powerful shot to take down. You’ll also need binoculars to scan the area and locate moose, as well as a good set of hunting boots for traversing the rough terrain. Additionally, wool hunting gear is a great choice for keeping you warm and dry during your hunt.
Wadmal hunting gear is an excellent choice for staying warm and dry during moose hunting, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures can be colder. Wadmal is an insulating material that can trap air and create a layer of warmth around the body. It is also naturally moisture-wicking, meaning it can absorb and release moisture without feeling wet. This makes it ideal for staying dry and comfortable during long periods of hunting in damp or rainy conditions. Wadmal clothing is also quiet, which is important when hunting moose, as they have excellent hearing and can detect even the slightest noise. Additionally, Wadmal is durable and can withstand rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for any hunting adventure.
When hunting moose, it’s important to plan your approach carefully. Moose are easily spooked, so it’s important to be quiet and avoid sudden movements. You should also try to stay downwind of the moose to avoid being detected by their sense of smell. When you do spot a moose, take your time to carefully line up your shot and make sure you have a clear shot at the animal.
Canada: Canada is known for its abundant moose population, and moose hunting is a popular activity in many provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
United States: Moose hunting is legal in several states, including Alaska, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Minnesota. Moose hunting regulations and requirements vary by state.
Sweden: Moose hunting is a popular activity in Sweden, with an estimated population of around 300,000 moose. Hunters are required to obtain a license and follow strict regulations regarding hunting methods and bag limits.
Norway: Moose hunting is also a popular activity in Norway, where there is an estimated population of around 120,000 moose. Hunters are required to obtain a license and follow strict regulations regarding hunting methods and bag limits.
Moose hunting can be a challenging but rewarding activity for hunters who are prepared. By knowing the moose’s habitat and behavior, using the right equipment, dressing in Wadmal hunting gear, and planning your approach carefully, you can increase your chances of a successful hunt. So, grab your gear and head out into the wilderness for a thrilling moose hunting adventure!
]]>Not only are their pants elegant, but they are super rich in quality.
Incredibly warm and the best wool pants I have seen in the outdoor world.
They have nailed it!"
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I have been working in the Canadian Boreal forest for 8 years organizing outdoor wilderness events, survival and bushcraft course all over Alberta. Our courses run from 4 -7 days with short intensives.
Winter is our longest and busiest season. We need to have the warmest clothing on the market to keep us warm in very bitter conditions. Often we are dealing with temperatures as low as -25 to -30 and that is without windchill.
Wool is king! There is no other layer or material that will do the job of keeping you warm.
It is not only super warm but very importantly wool is breathable.
Imagine pulling a toboggan carrying all your gear, stoves, tents and food on a 5 day snow trek tour?
Travelling in traditional snowshoes making your way along and across frozen lakes for up to 5-8 hrs a day!
You need to be comfortable - First rule on a survival course!
How to be comfortable - You need to be warm!
Warm but at the same time your body need to breath.
Absorbs the heat our bodies generate because it’s breathable !!!
When you are working hard your body needs to absorb the sweat otherwise the sweat becomes cold.
Wool also doesn’t smell and is fantastic around fire when we’re are working on our bushcraft.
When we take people out on our adventure treks or even a winter survival course we first teach them about wool! How to dress and how layer in wool. This is a must to join us on our courses because we know what works and we know you will suffer is you are cold!
As a woman it’s been impossible to find wool pants made for women.
So we have settled to wearing horrible wool pants that are made for men.
Unflattering, stiff, stuffy, ugly and not made for our bodies and lack the movement that are bodies need to move!
Not only are their pants elegant, but they are super rich in quality.
Incredibly warm and the best wool pants I have seen in the outdoor world.
They have nailed it!
Mmmm the quilted inner layer giving another extra layer of warmth.
On a recent trip in Canada Dec 2022 we endured temps of -38 with windchill. I was able to function very well due my wool pants and not just their warmth but their durability.
A few scenarios on this trip in particular put the pants durability to the test because I needed to work on the ground. Setting items for us to harvest food which had me crawling around on the ground and inside of tangled messes of the bush. A few times they got caught on brambles but my pants just brushed it all off without a second glance and never once got damaged.
Inside the sanctuary of the Boreal forest I could work in the snow on my knees due to the incredible durability of these pants. This is rare. Limbing a tree is another fantastic example of the pants durability. They seem to be unaffected by the elements, work and any kind of terrain.
Another scenario is we worked on the ice. Chiseling into thick ice which is hard hard work and a few times I had to get on my knees to do my job or take a break! I could sit on the ice because my pants were so cosy and warm!
Maybe even take a nap !
Tried and tested in bitter cold temperatures and at the same time a quality that makes them easy to move in. The durability of these pants means a life time investment because of how well they are made and the quality of wool.
I highly highly recommend them, investing in a piece of clothing that part of your survival wardrobe.
The moment you slip into these pants made for women you know you are putting on quality and this is what Micklagaard is about…Genuine high quality wool clothing.
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When I was lucky enough to be selected for season 9 of “Alone” on the History channnel, I knew my clothing choices would be critical to both my safety and success.
I have long been a proponent of wool layers. As both a professional shearer and an outdoorsman, I have a lot experience with both the warmth and strength of natural wool products, and I strongly believe that this natural material is the best choice for cold and wet weather environments.
Season 9 found us on the coast of Labrador, Canada, one of the coldest and wettest locations that the show has ever filmed, and the perfect outer layer needed to wick moisture, block the wind, and provide a strong insulating layer against snow and ice.
I had long desired a set of Micklagaard trousers and anorak, and this wilderness experience was the perfect excuse. Once I actually got them on and was able to spend sometime outside, I was blown away by the quality of the product. This is clothing that will truly last a lifetime.
I have done a lot of work with wool processing and tailoring myself, so I understand what proper felt is supposed to look and feel like. It should be of consistent thickness. Good quality felt will not “pill” or shed hairs. It shouldn’t itch and should be able to shed water and snow.
This was my first time owning Wadmal fabric, the material used to make Micklagaard clothing, and I was thoroughly impressed with how it exceeded all of my strict criteria for what good wool should do. The finish work is also fantastic. The reindeer leather trim both looks good and does its job of protecting and reinforcing the seams and pockets.
On the Anorak, the large kangaroo pocket becomes a catch-all for so many useful items that you want to carry with you. At various times during my 52 days in Labrador, I used it as a berry and mushroom collecting pouch, a place to hold my mittens when not needed, and as a place to store my spare GoPro and batteries. The pile lined pockets are an additional detail that was greatly appreciated. Sliding your hands into those pockets was like sliding them into warm pillows! The hood, when pulled tight, 2 can block wind and even driving snow. It traps the warmth so well that I often wore my hood without even a hat. Huge zippers along the sides make layering with this anorak so easy, and also help to control your temperature when you are moving through the forest.
The trousers also have so many small and well thought-out touches that I have never found in other outer layers I own. The adjustable waist strap on the back of the trousers came in very handy, as during my stay I lost over 25 kilos. The zippered vents on the thighs were very useful on those days that start cold, but warm up, as when you’re walking through the forest you can quickly vent without having to take the time to remove layers. The fit is very stylish. They are more of a European cut, and have a tailored fit without being too baggy. I am a man that prefers suspenders, and having the suspender buttons was a big benefit for me. The cargo pockets on the thigh are both spacious and secure, and come in handy for storing a pair of glove liners or spare ammo. The buttons and zippers all feel sturdy and are very well stitched to the clothing.
One thing that I really appreciate about wool outer layers such as this, is how effective they are for hunting. Synthetic outers have an annoying tendency to rustle and make noise while walking that is unnatural.
The Micklagard anorak and trousers are whisper quiet, and make moving through the brush quietly that much easier. Overall, I have been thoroughly impressed with Micklagaard products and their customer service. These are clothes you buy once and keep for a lifetime. If you are planning on being out in true wilderness this winter, then get yourself a pair of trousers or anorak, you won’t regret it.
The gear Adam Riley chose:
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Joshua Lisbon studerar pumor. Han använder ullbyxor från Micklagård eftersom ”allt annat går sönder på nolltid.
Joshua tillbringar har det udda arbetet att spåra och studera de här skygga djuren i vildmarken i Montana, USA. Han studerar hur många det finns, hur de använder landskapet och hur de är släkt med varandra.
Det mesta av Joshuas arbete görs under vintern, när snön låter honom spåra de stora katterna kilometer efter kilometer.
De här katterna håller sig i riktigt oländig terräng, högt uppe i bergen. Så Joshua behöver kläder och utrustning som tål stränga väderförhållanden och rent ut sagt fientliga miljöer.
Joshuas kläder fastnar ofta i stenar och grenar som kan riva sönder och punktera även de tåligaste kläderna.
Men inte Micklagårds vadmalsbyxor av ull. ”De fastnar inte i saker, och rivs inte upp. De är väldigt hållbara och tål det mesta”, säger Joshua.
Många friluftskläder är tillverkade av plast. Och om du kommer för nära en eld så finns det en risk att du inte längre har några byxor, eftersom de smälter. Men det är ingen risk med ull.
Enligt Joshua är ull ”mer hållbart om du ägnar dig åt friluftsliv".
En annan egenskap som är avgörande för Joshua är att ull är tyst.
"När byxorna skrapar emot en gren eller mot sig själva så för de inget oväsen”, "De här byxorna är hållbara och brandsäkra, de håller och luktar inte svett. Så jag rekommenderar dem gärna till alla som är seriösa frilufsare och jägare”, säger Joshua.
Joshua använder skräddarsydda Micklagård Hamra Professional vadmalsbyxor. Kolla in dem här: https://micklagaard.com/collections/t....
Joshuas arbete finns att läsa, och du kan se en oändlig ström av vildmarksfotografier på www.mpgranch.com.
]]>Vadmal är ett filtat ulltyg med enastående egenskaper för jakt och fritidskläder.
Vikingarna använde vadmal för att överleva de bistra nordiska vintrarna. Folk på norra halvklotet har använt vadmalskläder ända sedan de började hålla sig med får. Tyskarna kallade det loden och britterna hade sin tweed.
Vad du än kallar dem så är vadmalskläder hållbara och bekväma i alla väder. De är varma och nästan helt vind- och vattentäta. Ändå andas de effektivt ut svett och fukt som produceras av kroppen, som ett modernt membrantyg. Fast bättre.
Faktum är att många syntetiska fibrer försöker härma ullens unika sammansättning. Några har kommit en bra bit på på väg, men kan fortfarande inte mäta sig med ull i fråga om värme, komfort och hållbarhet.
För att förstå alla vadmalen alla unika egenskaper måste du först veta vilka egenskaper ullfibrerna ger ett tyg.
Ull har två enastående men motsägelsefulla egenskaper:
Ull absorberar upp till 35% av sin vikt i vatten innan den är mättad, vilket mycket väl kan vara ett världsrekord för textilier. Bomull kan inte absorbera mer än 18% och nylon är mättat vid 8%. Resultatet är att ull kan absorbera mycket mer fukt innan det kläderna känns våta.
Image by: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0
Vad spelar det då för roll? Jo, förmågan att absorbera fukt är ovärderlig för kläder som ska vara varma. Här är orsaken:
Tyg som mättats av fukt strävar efter att torka. För att kunna dunsta vätskan suger tyget värme från sin omgivning (du) vilket får dig att… frysa. Prova att springa i en bomullströja en varm sommardag så förstår du. Så fort bomullströjan blir fuktig så börjar du frysa, även varmt väder. Det är anledningen till varför det är en stor fördel att bära kläder med hög absorbtionsförmåga, som ull.
Men här är det bästa med ull:
När ull absorberar fukt genererar fibrerna värme på kemisk väg. Vattenmolekylerna vandrar in i fibrerna och alstrar rörelseenergi enligt en välkänd formel:
I normal rumstemperatur och 25% fuktighet kan ett kilo ull absorbera 50 gram vatten. Om du ökar temperaturen med tio grader och luftfuktigheten till 95% kan ullen absorbera ytterligare 270 gram vatten ur luften. Samtidigt alstrar ullen tillräckligt med energi för att smälta ett kilo is.
Faktum är att ull genererar fem gånger mer värme än någon annan textilfiber.
Vadmal är ett ulltyg som har bearbetats till ett tjockare och mer hållbart vattenavstötande tyg.
Om du tittar på en ullfiber i ett mikroskop så ser du att det har mikroskopiska fjällI från roten till spetsen. Dessa kallas epidermisfjäll och ger ullen dess unika förmåga att filta sig själv.
Image by: CSIRO, CC BY 3.0
När ull absorberar fukt sväller fibrerna, vilket gör att fjällen reser på sig. Om du stampar och rullar och knådar textilen i varmt vatten så krokar fjällen i varandra som kardborre. Resultatet är att tyget härdas och armerar sig själv.
Ju er du bearbetar tyget desto hårdare binder sig fibrerna i varandra, vilket gör tyget tjockare och starkare, samtidigt som fibrerna arrangerar sig i slumpmässiga mönster. Enligt Norman R. S. Hollies och Martha M Kaessinger ökar isolerförmågan i fuktigt tillstånd tack vare att vattenet dunstar långsammare. Om du bearbetar ulltyg tillräckligt länge så har får du till slut ett mjukt, nästan ogenomträngligt tyg som är helt vind- och vattentätt, som kallas vadmal.
Kring 1990 meddelade svenska militären att de skulle sluta använda vadmal i sina uniformer.
Vi pratar om vadmal i toppklass som impregnerats med silikon för att bli så gott som helt vattentätt.
Det har tillverkats för att tåla år av misshandel, av soldater som ålar sig i leriga skyttevärn och ogästvänlig terräng.
Militären auktionerade ut sitt sista lager av vadmalstyg och Micklagård köpte allt som fanns. Vi har en ladugård med travar och åter travar av vakuumpackad vadmal, som väntar på att sys till kläder för jakt, fiske och friluftsliv.
Det här vadmalstyget är unikt. Det är tillverkat av 80% ull, armerat med 20% extremt hållbara Rayon cellulosafibrer. Det väger 840 gr/kvadratmeter och kommer hålla en livstid. Militärmakten tillverkade det här tyget för att hålla sina soldater varma och skyddade i alla väder. Det går inte ens att riva sönder tyget eftersom trådarna inte ligger i raka linjer.
Arméns vadmalstyg är inte ogenomträngligt, men den ger gott skydd mot knivar och vassa objekt. Precis som ull så är vadmalen flamskyddad och svår att få eld på. Därför användes vadmal länge i brandmansuniformer.
Titt som tätt behöver militärer överaska sina fiender med ett smyganfall. För att inte upptäckas behöver uniformerna vara tysta. Om du gnuggar syntetiska material mot sig själv så frasar det ganska ljudligt, men vadmal är i princip helt tyst. En ovärderlig egenskap för jägare.
Det är svårt att hitta något negativt att säga om vadmal. Det är betydligt tyngre än andra textilier, och vissa gillar inte den gråa färgen.
Det finns många moderna syntetiska tyger på marknaden, och några av dem är mycket funktionella. De är vanligtvis väldigt lätta och kan göras vind- och vattentäta, samtidigt som de har förmåga att andas, precis som vadmal.
Men det finns några viktiga skillnader:
Ingenjörer har försökt utveckla syntetiska fibrer som härmar ullens förmåga att absorbera vatten. Plastfigrer med kapillärhål och mikroskopiska sprickor ökar tygets förmåga att transportera vätska. Men de kan bara absorbera flytande vatten och saknar förmåga att binda vattenånga i själva materialet.
Resultatet är att syntetiska fibrer inte kan alstra värme på kemisk väg.
När du rör på dig gnuggas kläderna mot din kropp, vilket bygger upp statisk elektricitet. Eftersom ull innehåller vatten bygger det inte upp statisk laddning lika enkelt som syntetiska fibrer.
Att tillverka syntetiska fibrer kostar massor av resurser och genererar koldioxidutsläpp. Ull är en helt naturlig och förnyelsebar resurs.
Ull har en mycket energieffektiv sammansättning. Det bryts ner mycket långsamt, tack vare att molekylerna själva inte har något att vinna på att skiljas från varandra. Det betyder att ullfibrer är extremt varaktiga.
Eftersom ullen innehåller så lite energi är den väldigt svår att antända. Syntetiska tyger kan brinna och smälta till kletiga heta droppar som kan skada den som bär kläderna.
ull ska hanteras varsamt. Vadmalskläder behöver sällan tvättas eftersom de stöter bort den mesta smutsen och illaluktande svett.
Eftersom ull bara absorberar vattenånga, så är fukten som går in i fibern praktiskt taget destillerat vatten. Smuts och doftämnen är för stora molekyler för att kunna passera ullfiberns yttre cellager.
Häng ut ditt vadmalsplagg på vädring efter du använt det. När du vädrar så sker ett naturligt byte av vattenmolekyler mellan ullfibrerna och den omgivande luften. Vattenmolekylerna tar med sig smuts och luktämnen, vilket gör tyget rent och fritt från dålig lukt.
Om du verkligen måste tvätta dina ullkläder så är det handtvätt i kallt vatten med ulltvättmedel som gäller. Du kan centrifugera tyget försiktigt, men vrid inte ur vattnet. Låt det torka på en välventilerad platt yta. När den är torr är den redo för användning igen.
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“Hello dear Micklagaard friends.
The Hamra trouser arrived and it is PERFECT!!
Thank you for your time and knowledge to make these trousers perfect!!
Here are some pictures of the complete Micklagaard outfit. I am training for Fjällraven Classic with the trouser and anorak and on the back a backpack with 25 kg.
It fits and feels very well in our rainy and windy weather and temperature between 0 and 10C°.
When sitting and waiting (wildlife photographing) I wear the Kebne jacket, Nice warm and silent and enough space to move.
Kind regards;
Evert-Jan and Jolanda van Roekel
Forestry werkers from the Netherlands
Late nights, when most people turn on the TV to escape their daily routine, Matthias Greiner grabs his hunting gear and steals away in the South German moonlight.
His game is Wild boar. A species that is becoming a real problem for farmers all over Europe. They breed like crazy and destroy vast farmlands while digging for food.
Many people think of wild boar as vermin. But for Mr Greiner the boar is a challenging adversary that he respects immensely, and has to work hard to outsmart.
“It requires a completely different technique than hunting for deer or elk. The boar are highly intelligent and can hear and smell you coming from a mile away. To make things even more difficult for the hunters, they typically avoid locations where they have been in danger in the past. And they are only active at night, which means that you have to know where to look for them".
Matthias Greiner has been hunting wild boar for 25 years. He knows from experience how to find the boar and silently sneak close enough to get a clean shot with his rifle.
He describes himself as a dynamic hunter, always moving to position himself optimally. He clearly has a systematic approach to boar hunting, which might stem from the fact that he is a leading engineer at a global German innovation company. He lives and goes hunting just north of Stuttgart.
The Wild boars sense of smell is so sensitive that the animal is used for drug detection in Germany. And their hearing is just as delicate.
It is a highly adaptable species that is found in abundance all over the world. They eat just about anything and grownups weigh in at between 60 and 200 kilograms.
The wild boar has a genetic mutation that protects it from snake venom. Just about it's only natural enemy in Germany is the grey wolf, and yeah, people like Mr Greiner.
"You need to come within 30-50 meters. The way I do it is to reconnaissance by day to find their most recent whereabouts. Since they damage the fields and dig up the ground looking for roots, earthworms and insects, they aren't very difficult to find. At night I return to the scene of the crime. I take special care about the direction of the wind - one little breeze from me towards them and they are gone.
Then I listen for them patiently. To hear them is relatively easy when you approach them with the wind in your face. They are constantly communicating to one another, so they make quite some noise, grunting and squeaking.
When I find them I stalk them carefully, silently sneaking closer and closer until I have a clean shot".
The main challenge facing any wild boar hunter, besides having good wind conditions, is beeing quiet enough not to alarm the boar. According to Matthias Greiner it really comes down to your stalking technique and having clothes that are very silent.
Mr Greiner prefers to hunt in half moonlight or in city lights reflected in the clouds, because otherwise you won't be able to see the boar even from close range. And if the moon is full, the wild boars might be able to see your movements. So, the best weather for wild boar hunting is rain and wind. Those circumstances give you a kind of audio camouflage, concealing your approach.
"You need clothes that are quiet, wind- and waterproof. That is why Micklagaard is one of my preferred brands when it comes to hunting clothes. There are other hunting brands trying to accomplish this using other fabrics, but loden (vadmal) is the best if you ask me. And Micklagaard has the most wind- and waterproof Loden fabric I've found. And it is very warm".