GEARING UP
starting at the top
Every day in the great outdoors, you’ll rely on your mid and outer layer jackets to adjust to shifting temperatures. A single, solid outer layer is your go-to defense, but your mid-layers are where you personalize your comfort—whether you love the insulating warmth of down or the breathable flexibility of fleece.
The real hero of your setup is your base layer top, crafted from specialized fabrics, it regulates your warmth and wicks away moisture to keep you dry.
BASE LAYER
The base layer is worn directly on your skin. Its primary role is to wick moisture (sweat) away from your body and keep you dry. Staying dry is crucial in extreme cold, as moisture can lead to rapid heat loss.
Typically made of moisture-wicking materials like merino wool, synthetic fabrics or silk.
MID LAYER
The mid layer is worn over the base layer and serves to retain body heat by providing insulation. This layer traps warm air close to your body and helps maintain core temperature.
Fleece, down, synthetic insulation or softshell fabrics.
outer layer
The outer layer provides protection from the elements (wind, snow, rain, etc.). It’s the last line of defense against the harsh environmental conditions in Antarctica. The outer layer is usually windproof, waterproof, and highly breathable to prevent overheating while keeping moisture out.
Waterproof and windproof fabrics like Gore-Tex or other durable water-repellent materials. Some outer layers also have insulation, while others are uninsulated and rely on the mid layer for warmth.
bottoms
In the unforgiving Antarctic environment, your pants serve as a two-part defense system. Outer layer pants are your first line of protection, designed to block wind and repel moisture. Beneath them, your thermal inner layers act as an insulating barrier to retain body heat. Together, these layers ensure you stay comfortable and dry by drawing moisture away from the skin, while your mid layers provide extra warmth or breathability as needed.
ice climbing boots
Ice climbing boots are essential to most of your activities while on ice - quite literally, cramp-ons (spikes strapped to your shoes) are non-negotiable when walking on glacial ice. Guides will fit you with crampons depending on your activity.
socks
Inner layer socks work to keep your feet dry by wicking away sweat and trapping warmth to maintain comfort throughout the day.
The outer layer then kicks in with added insulation, protection, and durability, guarding against cold and moisture. Together, they create a powerful sock system designed to keep your feet at their best, no matter the challenge or the weather.
gloves
Inner layer gloves are engineered with moisture-wicking fabrics to pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and cozy by trapping warmth between the layers.
The outer layer delivers unbeatable protection, shielding you from wind, rain, and freezing temperatures while the inner layer ensures consistent comfort by managing moisture. Together, they create the perfect balance of warmth, dryness, and resilience in harsh weather.
other
non - negotiables
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