Our excellent method for dressing in cold conditions is hardly rocket science, nor does it involve the use of some ground breaking new technology. It is in fact far more simple than those and yet can easily be overlooked or forgotten, especially by visitors new to cold, winter or Nordic environments. The 'multi-layer principle' can help you avoid being uncomfortable and enable you to take the most from your next winter holiday.
The Multi-layer Principle (1 to 4)
For us to be able to enjoy spending time outdoors and function properly in the Nordic climates we need to understand our body's ability to regulate its own temperature. As a species, homo-sapiens are very well adapted to regulating body temperature, however we are in fact designed to live in warm climates functioning best in a temperature around 27'C (the tropics). This means that elsewhere in the world we need clothing and equipment to keep us dry, warm and safe.
How you combine the clothing you choose to wear is very important. The clothing you select should allow for good mobility, ventilation and be neither too tight nor too loose. We always recommend to Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions clients who are visiting the colder Nordic regions to employ the layering technique. Being able to add or take off layers when appropriate, thus regulating your body temperature, is vital to not only our enjoyment level in the outdoors, but this can even effect our very survival. Each layer you wear plays its own specific role in the layering technique and we have outlined these below in a clearer format for you to follow.
(When enjoying a static winter activity such as photography class on one of our Swedish Lapland trips, choose a thick mid-layer and consider the addition of a back up layer or a thick down jacket). Click image to enlarge.
1. Base layer
Your base layer should be close fitting and either a wicking synthetic material or Marino wool. We advise our clients to avoid cotton base layers altogether and this extends to sock and underwear. Base layers play a vital role in transporting moisture away from the skin and keeping you dry and warm. If the base layer you are wearing is not well fitted the functionality of the garment will be compromised totally.
(In sub-zero, arctic conditions the use of the multi-layering principle proves vital for temperature regulation). Click image to enlarge.
2. Mid layer
Your mid layer should be heavier item of clothing, perhaps a fleece, good woollen jumper or light down jacket. It should continue to help transport moisture away from the body yet play the additional role of mitigating against heat-loss. The air between your mid layer and your base layer provides vital insulation, along with the air within the garment's fibres. If temperatures are very low or your activity is static, a thicker layer with more air is needed. When considering your mid layer, think about your activity levels - for instance if you are going to be sat on a snowmobile or on the back of a dog-sled travelling motionless through flat terrain, perhaps consider a thinker garment.
3. Outer layer
The outer layer should be both windproof and waterproof, providing good breathability. The outer layer plays the vital role of keeping the colder outside air away from your core, yet simultaneously trapping the warmer air from your body within your layered system. It is important you choose a breathable fabric for your outer layer as all the moisture being pulled away from your body by the base and mid layer will need to also escape. Failure to allow for this moisture to escape will result in the build-up of excess which will eventually make you cold. We recommend clients wear their outer layer when active, it should protect not only the core but extremities such as your head, throat, wrists, waist and ankles. The best outer layers allow the user micro management of body temperature, users have the ability to open the up the neck, sleeves and cuffs for additional ventilation with access via chucky zippers - perfect while wearing gloves.
Gore-Tex or an equivalent is often recommended in outdoor shops. In extremely cold temperatures however remember that a modern membranes ability to breathe can become compromised. If you are visiting a very cold, dry climate we would recommend tightly woven cotton garments which have been waxed for water and wind repellency.
(Smocks often have high collars protecting the neck and face as well as a draw cord around the waist which helps trap air close to your core - excellent choices in harsher arctic conditions). Click to enlarge.
4. Down Jacket or additional back-up layer
A thick, well insulated down jacket should be put on when resting - a good example would be when stopping for lunch on the summit of a peak, or when arriving at a possible camp site and or whilst setting up your camp. Once you stop, access your body's heat level, if you're already sweating allow your body to cool a little and then add you additional layer. Depending on the weather conditions when you stop, they can be worn either under your outer layer or over the top, and should be roomy. Depending on the overall temperature of your trip, you can assess whether a down jacket is needed versus an additional warm layer such as a good woollen sweater.
Employ this simple but sensible principle and you will be able to enjoy your winter vacations as much as your summer holidays. You will find that a night out under the night sky watching the Northern Lights dance above can be something to savour. The cold will no longer be able to detract from the joy of the natural spectacle above, that special moment you have waited to see for so long.
(Northern Lights viewing whilst at Aurora Safari Camp in Swedish Lapland - truly a bucket-list experience. Speak to us today and start planning your winter holiday of a life-time.). Click image to enlarge.
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