What to Wear in Winter

Many people travel to the Arctic in summer on an expedition ship. Temperatures are usually above freezing and may even reach 20°C (68°F) on a warm day, depending on where you go. Due to sudden changes in temperature, dressing in layers is key. But in summer, you won‘t usually have to bring your warmest gear. Things are different in winter, though. Traveling to the Arctic in winter is really cold. Temperatures below -40°C (-40°F) are to be expected, with high wind chills. Only the best gear is suitable for these conditions. While every person is different, we have put together a list of things, we are usually packing for winter trips to the Arctic.

Temperatures in winter are generally very cold, especially on windy days. However, there is a big difference between „-50°C cold“ (-56°F) and „-10°C cold“ (14°F). Dressing in layers is the ideal solution for these challenging conditions. Temperature and wind are not the only factors to consider. Especially when traveling north for wildlife photography, there will be periods of hiking/snow shoeing/moving around and periods of just sitting still for hours. Again, layers are the solution.

The biggest problem in Arctic temperatures is usually not being too cold, since you can easily address this by adding an additional layer or two. It is rather breaking sweat. When you work out with your heavy gear, you will overheat quickly. Having wet clothes is one of the most dangerous situations in the cold. Having multiple layers that you can put on or off as needed are the most effective way of preventing getting wet.

Our gear usually consist of the following:

Merino wool long sleeve shirt (e.g. Icebreaker). We always use these as a base layer since they are wicking away moisture quickly and offer good smell protection.

Heavy fleece jacket (e.g. Mammut). To add additional warmth.

If it’s really cold, an additional layer (e.g. a light down jacket or a soft shell jacket) might help. Just remember so size them so they fit over your other layers.

Our favorite parka is the Quartz Vostok. But a Canada Goose Expedition parka or Snow Mantra parka will be just as good. Again, remember to fit this outermost layer with everything underneath that you plan to wear.

Merino wool leggings (e.g. Icebreaker). They are our go-to base layer.

If it’s really cold, an additional layer, e.g. Haglöfs fleece pants, might be a good idea.

Our favorite ski pants are from FXR. But any bib style well insulated ski/snowboard pants will do.

Wool ski socks (e.g. Falke). We usually wear just one layer of socks. It’s better to have some room in your boots to wiggle your toes than do constrict your blood flow with too many too tight layers.

Our favorite winter boots are the Baffin Apex. They are rated to -100°C, which obviously is nonsense. But they are still very warm. Remember to size them up at least one size. You will have room to put on foot warmers and still be able to move your toes.

We usually wear thin liner gloves and heavy mitts. The liners provide some protection when using your camera. And the mitts will provide warmth when waiting/walking/driving/etc. We can recommend the products of Heat Company, but others will be fine, too. Again, the mitts have to be big enough to fit your hands AND liners AND possibly hand warmers.

Especially on a windy day, every inch of your skin has to be covered to prevent frost bite. We usually bring a few buffs since these can be used as scarves, face protection or hat. For really cold days, we also bring a windproof balaclava and a toque or trapper hat.

On a warmer day, sunglasses might be OK. But usually, ski goggles are a better bet. First, they will cover your skin better than sunglasses. Second, they will fog up less than sunglasses. But they will fog up and freeze eventually. So, bringing an extra pair of goggles is always a good idea.

Battery powered and/or chemical hand and foot warmers are always a good idea. Just check with you airline, if batteries and hand/foot warmers are allowed in either your checked or carry on bags. One thought about battery vs. chemical: If the battery fails, you’re out of luck. If a chemical warmer fails, you just open the next.

Pro tip 1: There’s nothing more uncomfortable (and even dangerous) as getting wet. Therefore, make sure not to break sweat. And if you do, try to dry your stuff as soon as possible. This is especially important with your boots. The liners of these boots are usually removable. And since even on a cold day, your feet tend to sweat a little, these liners can get damp pretty quickly. Always remove the liners to let them dry, even over lunch, if possible.

Pro tip 2: There's nothing best strategy to get warm again is to start moving. We have found, that collecting firewood gets you warmer quicker than the actual fire. Or just go for a walk. Or jump up and down in your spot.

Pro tip 3: You will usually be traveling the Arctic with guides that know the area well. If you really get cold, let them know. Being cold is nothing to be ashamed of.

Pro tip 4: If possible, bring an extra pair of socks and two good size plastic bags. Even at -40°C there can be slush or water under the ice. If you happen to get your feet wet, a dry pair of socks will be priceless. Put on the try socks, slip into the plastic bags and then into the (wet) boots. It will still be cold, but at least your feet will be dry.

Pro tip 5: Know your limits. No photo or experience is worth risking your health. If you do not feel well, if you are cold, if you feel like staying at your lodge/tent instead of venturing out in a blizzard - do so.

Generally speaking, we found the cold to be less intimidating than anticipated. It’s usually a dry cold that you can dress for pretty easily. But it’s a good idea to be prepared.