Guide for Beginners on How to Select an Apiarist Suit!
If you're new to beekeeping, you might be unsure about what type of apiarist suit you'll require in order to keep yourself safe while working with bees. There are a few things to consider while deciding, including the fabric type, suit style, and suit size. This blog has everything you'll need from head to toe.
We'll go through the different fit options, as well as different sizes and material benefits, in this section.
Is it essential to wear an Apiarist suit?
Honey bees are usually calm and will avoid stinging if they can. Whether or not you need an Apiarist suit is debatable. However, most newcomers, if not all of them, require an Apiarist suit. That is how we see it.
Beekeeping is a new hobby. Wearing a bee costume boosts your self-esteem and provides inner serenity. A calm beekeeper is less likely to be stung. That is the simplest yet honest answer for it. If you're cool, your bees will be too.
Hat and veil
When choosing head protection, there are a few things to consider. The first thing to think about is whether or not you want your hat and veil to be attached. The type of headgear you choose is also important.
The three sorts of veils that may be worn are the round veil, fencing veil, and square veil. The fencing veil, which is the most popular by professional beekeepers, is often used. The rectangular veil is less popular, yet it also provides effective concealment. The best visibility is provided by the OZ Armour fencing veil.
There are a number of things to consider before taking action. Veils and fences, for example, might have distracting lines that prevent you from seeing. It depends on the beekeeper's temperament if a diversion is acceptable.
Separated vs. attached hat and veil
The apparent advantage of having a veil that is separated from the rest of your dress is that it may be replaced if damaged. You can also pick a hat that you enjoy. If you don't want the bees to enter your bonnet, check for holes in it. This can leave a few gaps for insects to get inside, especially if you're not wearing a veil or headwear with your bonnet.
With a hat and veil, the seal appears to be more at ease. There are fewer things to be concerned about, making it the most popular choice for newcomers. If you're not a fan of bees, this is the way to go.
Round vs fencing vs square veil
The most frequent veil worn by beekeepers is the round veil. It's less invasive than the fencing veil and provides clearer sight lines. The round veils are also simpler to put on and remove.
The fencing veil is the most common type of veil worn by professional beekeepers. It provides greater protection than a round veil, but putting it on and taking it off may be more difficult. The fencing veils have distracting patterns that might prevent you from seeing.
The square veil, which is less popular than the fencing veil, may provide good protection. It's similar to the fencing veil but lacks distracting lines. The square veil is also much easier to put on and take off.
Quality of veil
The quality of the veil should be taken into account. The higher the quality, the more costly the veil will be. However, the better the quality, the longer it will last. As a rule of thumb, the finer the mesh is, the easier it is to see through.
Jacket
You may select between a torso-only or full-body suit when picking out an Apiarist outfit. A jacket will only cover your upper torso, while a complete Apiarist suit will cover your entire body.
The most crucial aspect to consider when selecting a jacket is the fabric type. The most common materials are nylon, cotton, and polycotton blends. Another form of ventilated mesh is aerated mesh, which is also known as vented or perforated mesh.
Nylon
The most common fabric for beekeeping jackets is nylon. It's lightweight, long-lasting, and simple to clean. Nylon is also less likely to tear than other materials.
Polycotton or Cotton
Cotton is a breathable, pleasant-to-wear material made of natural fibers. Cotton is also simple to maintain. However, cotton isn't as durable as nylon and is more prone to rip. Polycotton is a combination of polyester and cotton. Polycotton is better resistant to wear than cotton but not quite as robust as nylon.
Ventilated or aerated mesh
A form of textiles with pores is known as ventilated or aerated mesh. This fabric has a lot of holes, making it extremely breathable and keeping you cool while working with bees. Cleaning Ventilated or Aerated Mesh Is Simple
Ventilated Apiarist suits may be used by beekeepers who work in areas with extreme heat.
Zipper vs. velcro vs. strings
The sort of closure on your Apiarist suit is determined by personal preference.
Zipper
The most common type of closing for beekeeping jackets is a zipper. A zip fastens firmly and is simple to use. Because it prevents any holes, a zipper will offer better protection.
Velcro
Velcro is another popular kind of closure for beekeeping jackets. It's simple to use and provides a good seal.
Strings
The least used closure type among beekeeping jackets is strings. Strings are more difficult to work with than zippers or velcro and do not provide a tight seal.
Colour
Beekeepers are generally thought to wear only white. However, you may actually wear any light-colored clothing. Green or blue are examples of darker hues that may be worn. It's easier to see the bees if you wear darker colors.
The most significant detail to grasp is that bees are drawn to dark hues. You should exercise extreme caution around the bees if you're wearing a black Apiarist suit. We offer pink, khaki, and white bee suits at OZ Armour.
Size
As a general guideline, wear an Apiarist suit one size larger than normal. Don't be concerned about going overboard. Many beekeepers buy their suits two sizes bigger! OZ Armour sells sizes ranging from XS to 8XL.
Gloves
Gloves are an essential component of a beekeeper's outfit. Gloves protect your hands from stings while also making it easier to handle the bees.
Wearing gloves is vital for two reasons. First, they will protect your hands from stings. Second, you won't crush bees while handling them if you wear gloves.
Gloves come in two varieties: leather and Ventilated Mesh.
3 Layer Mesh Ventilated Cow Hide Gloves
The 3-layer mesh ventilated cowhide gloves provide excellent sting protection. The three layers of mesh allow for ventilation, keeping your hands cool. Leather that is also water resistant and puncture proof
Cowhide Ventilated Gloves
Our cowhide ventilated gloves offer excellent protection from stings. The ventilated mesh on the back of the hand provides ventilation to keep your hands cool. The cowhide leather offers durability and protection from punctures.
Extra Strength Professional Quality Gloves
These gloves are made from a thicker cloth that provides enhanced sting protection. These gloves are also less prone to break apart.
Children Cowhide Ventilated Gloves
Our children's gloves are made of a less durable and puncture-resistant material than our adult gloves. The back of the hand features a ventilated mesh that allows heat to escape. Leather with cowhide provides durability and protection against punctures.
Ankle Protector
Ankle protectors are thick coverings that encircle the ankles. Bee stings to the ankles can be reduced by wearing ankle protectors. Ankle protectors made of sturdy, long-lasting material are available from OZ Armour. The ankle protection is simple to put on and remove.
Happy Beekeeping NewBee!
The type of bee costume you choose will be determined by your environment, personality, and priorities, as well as finances. There are a few things to think about, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In the end, the ideal bee costume is one that allows you to feel at ease and self-assured while around bees. Thank you for taking the time to read this!