There are few things more rewarding than beekeeping, however for many people just starting out, it may be a bit uncomfortable on those first few inspections and that may be due to bee suits. Bee suits are meant to be a second layer of skin that act as protection when beekeeping, but many first time beekeepers make it a lot easier for bees to sting them. We operate Safta Bee, and manufacture beekeeping suits and gloves, as well as provide beekeeping services and products. We understand that many beginners make the same mistakes when it comes to the bee keeper outfit, and we understand that from experience.
Knowing what these mistakes are, can be extremely helpful and will protect you from many stings while giving you greater confidence when working with your bees.
1- Choosing the Wrong Size
A common error for novices purchasing bee keeper suits is that they are not paying attention to the fit. A bee keeper outfit that is too tight can make stings more likely as the fabric is pressed to the skin. Alternatively, if the suit is too baggy, the extra fabric can create pockets where bees can get stuck or crawl in.
The perfect bee keeper outfit will have a snug fit, but will also allow for sufficient freedom of movement.
2- Ignoring Weak Points
When beginning, many new beekeepers assume that different parts of the suit provide the same protection. However, the elbows, knees, thighs, and back, for example, are more silly to be stung because of movement and compression.
Bee keeper outfit that are not designed well, and that lack reinforced areas, tend to allow for multiple stings in the same spot. This frustrates many new beekeepers and leads to them quitting.
3- Not Properly Sealing The Suit
Bees can get into your suit through little openings, like around the zippers, cuffs, or at the bottom of the pants. Newcomers don't always realize how fast a bee can make it through a gap.
A sealed bee keeper outfit should be equipped with wrist and ankle zippers, and strong closures.
4- Wrong Underclothes
What you wear under your suit is important. If you wear thin clothing it may reduce the protective distance the suit provides. Also, tight underclothes, dark colors, and rough textures irritates bees.
Under a bee keeper outfit, the right underclothes help with comfort and sting resistance while not overheating.
5- Ignoring Ventilation and Heat
Bees respond quickly to overheating and the stress, sweat, and rushed movements it produces. New beekeepers routinely select thick, non-ventilated suits, assuming that heavier equals safer.
With a ventilated bee keeper outfit, the bee keeper remains calm, stress pheromones are reduced, and hive inspections become more tranquil.
6- Assuming Stings Are “Just Part of Learning”
To think that getting stung often is a part of learning is a mistake. Although a beekeeping suit can’t provide a complete guarantee against stings, getting stung over and over again should be seen as a sign of a defective suit, poor design, or faulty suit use.
At Safta Bee, we think that a bee keeper outfit is a provider of comfort, not a punisher. Learning about bees is a fun and interesting process, and should not be a painful ordeal.
How Safta Bee Assists Beginners in Overcoming These Challenges
At Safta Bee, our beekeeping suits, gloves, and protective gear are tailored for both beginners and pros. We merge experience with mindful construction to design suits that:
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Are properly fitted
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Strengthen protective zones
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Retain shape while in motion
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Optimizes safety with comfort
Additionally, we assist beekeeping novices with our products and services so that novices build confidence from day one.
Final Remarks
It's understandable to make mistakes with protective gear when first getting involved in something. Simply picking the correct bee bee keeper outfit, and learning how to properly use it goes a long way.
After all, the whole point of beekeeping is to make it safe and comfortable, and with the correct protective gear, it is exactly that. 🐝