Dressing for your sled dog tour

Are you worried about how to dress for the winter conditions in Northern Sweden? Don't worry. You can borrow everything from us!

How to dress for Arctic climate?

The best way to keep warm is to dress in layers with the appropriate material. (Avoid cotton as it retains moisture, making you wet and cold. It's also very slow to dry).

If you have concerns about going on an overnight sleddog tour please e-mail us your questions or give us a call. Contact us

First Layer: underwear and long underwear

No cotton! Use synthetic material like polypropylene, polyester capilene or silk.

The first layer, or wicking layer next to the skin, is the foundation of the system. This consists of long underwear with properties that transport moisture away from the skin so it can be absorbed by the next layer of clothing. To provide adequate insulation, this layer must fit snugly, without restricting your movements.

Mid-layer: turtleneck, pullover, shirt, sweaters and pants, bulky jacket

NB. No cotton! Choose Polypropylene, polyester or wool.

This part, meant to absorb moisture and insulate, can be made up of multiple layers. Shirts, sweaters, pile/fleece pullovers, pile/fleece pants, etc., can all be added to absorb moisture that the wicking layer moves away from the skin, and to provide insulation. Anything that covers the neck and throat will keep you warmer. Just remember that each layer added must fit easily over the previous one without restricting arm or leg movement. It’s important not to impair blood circulation. Finally, add a bulky jacket or liner that fits easily over all of the above.

Outer layer: the shell

Often called the shell layer, this part of your outfit provides insulation, but its main function is to repel the elements (wind, rain, sleet and snow). It should be waterproof (not just water resistant) but should let moisture evaporate from your body. A jacket with a hood, pull over pants (preferably with leg zippers), gloves/mittens, and gaiters make up this layer. They must all fit easily over the other layers (including the jacket or liner). Be sure that all zippers have flaps that snap over them to keep the elements out.

For your extremities: socks, gloves and hats

Again, no cotton!

Layer your socks, with a thin silk-weight sock under a micro-fleece sock. They should fit comfortably without restricting circulation. Be sure to bring extra pairs and never wear the same pair twice without washing them first. Plan to change socks as soon you feel wet to keep your feet warm and dry.

Start with a thin pair of polypropylene or silk glove liners, then add warm, waterproof and windproof gloves or mittens. Mittens allow each finger to contribute to warming its neighbour. Layering the two pairs of gloves means you can remove the outer glove or mitten for added dexterity without exposing skin to the elements. Hand warmer packets that fit inside your gloves work very well and are effective for a few hours.

A silk or polypropylene balaclava underneath your hat will protect exposed areas from the elements, including your neck and throat, chin, mouth and nose if necessary. The eye area is covered by your goggles, making you impervious to the colder temperatures. Fleece neck gaiters are popular as well as a thin neoprene mask that attaches with Velcro behind the neck and shields the chin, mouth and nose.

Avoid frost bite

Damp is the biggest danger when it comes to frost bite. For example, it is more dangerous to expose wet feet to 0 degrees than dry feet to -10 degrees. So to avoid frost bite, keep dry! Always ask your guide if you feel uncertain about your clothing or equipment.