I’ve been doing longer inspections lately and started wondering how much protective clothing weight and ventilation really affects beekeeper fatigue and stress levels.
Great question, Raheel.
It gets pretty warm in my neck of the woods. I persevered with tri-layered vent gear for years. They’re marketed as the best protection from stings. I found them very uncomfortable in summer and at the end of an inspection, I was drenched and dehydrated.
A few years ago, I tried my first single layer Lyson jacket and never looked back. They’re way cooler and more comfortable. I can’t say I’ve noticed more stings, though I work bees bare handed, so I’m more likely to be stung on my hands. If you get stung a lot, swap your queen with gentle stock.
Mike