This fall, pink hunting gear will appear on the shelves of sporting goods stores in Washington state. Vests, hats, jackets, and anything else that will keep you warm while waiting for a deer to wander past will likely be available not just in classic hunter orange but also in florescent pink.
It’s not just a fashion statement. It’s the law.
Since “hunter orange” was first introduced in Field and Stream in 1960, the color has been embraced as a key part of hunter safety. The first law mandating that hunters wear it, and thus appear more visible to each other to prevent accidents, was passed by Massachusetts in 1961. Today, most states mandate that hunters wear it during at least some seasons.
Although highlighter orange has dominated the hunting world, it’s far from the only color that would ensure hunters don’t blend in with the forest. Another candidate that might be even less visible to deer is the equally unnatural shade of highlighter pink.
Washington specified orange in its hunting laws, and so the addition of pink to the mix required legislation. It was introduced by Repulican state Sen. Lynda Wilson, received unanimous support in the state legislature, and was signed in April by Gov. Jay Inslee.
The new law, which is set to take effect July 1, makes Washington one of 10 states that allow hunters to wear blaze pink to satisfy visibility requirements.
Despite its growing acceptance, florescent pink won’t likely be as popular as blaze orange, which is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of hunting season. Nevertheless, pink joins the hunt.
