Dressing Tips for the Arctic
Dressing appropriately for Lapland is crucial, as the weather can be quite harsh, especially in the winter months. Here are some dressing tips to help you stay warm and comfortable
Layer Up!
Layering is key to staying warm. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add a middle layer for insulation, like fleece or wool, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Best are down jackets.
Layers can also allow to add or remove them if necessary.
Opt for insulated pants or snow pants to keep your legs warm and dry. Look for pants that are waterproof and windproof, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities.
Thermal underwear is also good to consider for keeping your legs and torso warm. Choose thermal underwear made from moisture-wicking material to keep you dry.
Don't forget to pack warm accessories like hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal socks. Heat escapes from your head and extremities, so keeping them covered is crucial for staying warm.
Invest in a pair of insulated and waterproof boots with good traction. Look for boots with thick insulation to keep your feet warm in sub-zero temperatures. Make sure they are comfortable and allow you to wear thick socks. Also take a look if the boots have an inside layer that you can take out and dry in case your feet get wet. Boots with this inside layer also tend to be warmer.
Average temperature in the winter is -10°C, however a lot of the times temperatures can go down to -20°C or even to -30°C.
When it's this cold outside, staying warm is far more important than looking fashionable. Bundling up in a puffy jacket and thermal layers might not win you any style points, but it's essential for keeping the cold at bay. Prioritizing function over fashion ensures you're protected against the harsh elements, because at these temperatures, comfort and safety come first.
Having weather apropriate clothing also ensures that you can enjoy and partake in the activities a 100%.
Function over Fashion at -30°C
Some brands we would recommend and some budget friendly tips.
Brands that have clothes, we have found sufficient for this type of weather.
Clothing:
Top brands: The North Face, Dope, Helly Hansen(N), Fjällräven(S), Halti(FIN),
More budget friendly brands: Quechua, Wedze.
Boots:
Top brands: Sorell, Moon Boots, Baffin,
Budget friendly tip 1: Buy rubber boots in the local shops, they tend to be significantly cheaper and most of the times better. Sadly finding smaller sizes for women/children might be challenging, however is better to have a slightly bigger boot, cause air is also insulating or you can fit in a thick sock.
Budget friendly tip 2: Before you leave you can try to sell the clothes to second hand shops or you can ask your tour provider if they know someone who might need it.