Can I wear a camouflage hat if it’s legal orange?

What is Legal Orange?

In most states, legal orange refers to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 20471 standard for high-visibility clothing. This standard requires that the garment or accessory be made of a specific shade of orange, known as “blaze orange.” To be considered legal, your hat must meet this standard. In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that all hunters wear high-visibility clothing that meets the ISO 20471 standard during firearms deer hunting seasons.

How to Ensure Your Hat Meets the Standard

To ensure that your camouflage hat meets the ISO 20471 standard, look for the following characteristics: the hat must be made of a material that is highly visible in low-light conditions, such as a bright orange color. The hat must also be worn in a way that allows it to be seen from at least 500 yards away. This can be achieved by wearing the hat on your head, rather than as a hat-band or accessory. Additionally, the hat should have a reflective strip or material to increase its visibility in low-light conditions.

State-Specific Requirements

While the ISO 20471 standard is widely accepted, some states have their own regulations regarding high-visibility clothing. For example, in Michigan, hunters are required to wear a minimum of 500 square inches of hunter orange above the waist, including a hat. In Wisconsin, hunters are required to wear at least 150 square inches of hunter orange above the waist. It is essential to check with your local wildlife agency or department of natural resources to determine what is required in your state.