What should I wear and what kind of equipment do I need during my stay in the winter at Eräkeskus?
To feel more comfortable at low temperatures you will need to create a climate system from multi-layers of clothing (like an onion), particularly if you are sweating from physical exertion (such as Gore-Tex, Texaporematerials).
In cold weather Fleece has proven as clothing, because through its bulk structure it generates insulating air cushions and transports the sweat quickly away from the body.
The clothing of a well-packed "Musher" should consist of:
1st Layer
Directly on the body is a functional thermal underwear made of synthetic fibers,which derives the sweat from the body. Cotton and wool retain moisture andcreate a dry state with a pleasant feeling.
At the feet you wear wool, fleece or thermal socks, preferably two pairs of each other, the second pair should be a number greater than the first.
2nd Layer
About the underwear clothing, a light fleece sweater and a shirt or a fleeceUndershort.
3rd Layer
Thicker sweater or fleece jacket, possibly a second fleece pants
4th Layer
As the "outer skin" a tough, windproof and lined coverall or a windproofinsulated jacket and pants. The important thing is a big hood that can be drawn over the normal cap and additionally protects the face against wind or low temperatures.
There are high demand on the footwear. It should be warm and protected from moisture and still be elastic at -30 degrees. The shoes must have at least a half-high shaft and be waterproof. They may not fit exactly, but should be at least one number too big. The additional air in the shoe is a perfect insulation and allows the necessary warm-up movements of the toes!
A good lining is important to keep the feet warm even when moved only a little. A removable felt liner is practically to completely dry out the shoes at night. Adjustable stem statements prevent snow from entering the shoe. A lace or Velcro closure is preferable to the zipper, because a zipper can't be moved too good at low temperatures.
For the gloves we recommend a light finger-glove (preferably two pairs) to wear under a large, water- and windproof over-glove (mitten).
We provide all participants of an overnight-trip with the 4th Layer as well as boots, sleeping bag and liner for the overnight in the cabins. Hats and gloves are available in a limited number.
The following equipment should be brought along by every guest:
- thermos flask
- sun and / or snow glasses
- Sunscreen (high SPF) and lip protection
- pocket knife
- headlight or pocket lamp with replacement batteries
- jogging pants/t-shirt or similar for evening/night
- 2 pairs of thin gloves made of wool or fleece
- Thick mittens in a larger size to use the small gloves below
- Cap and face protection (face and ears must be covered)
- Slippers or socks for the stays in the lodge and the cabins
- If you need glasses, you should use contacts lenses during the tour if possible., because glasses will get fogged at low temperatures. Additionally you should bring a spare pair of glasses.
- heat bag if needed
- Cold cream or vaseline to protect areas of the face in case of very low temperatures.
Skihelmets can be used when dogsledding. Bring your own one with you, if you want one, as we do not provide them!
Important: all your personal belongings for the overnight-tours of 1 - 4 nights should fit into a small rucksack of 20 - 30 litres volume!
Autumn Weeks / Musherworkshop
In October the weather is often wet and cold, that's why you need good waterproof clothing in this period. Take your rain-trousers, rainjacket and rubberboots with you! Also a good headlight what gives you at least 30 m light, to see the complete dog-team during the afternoon/early-evening training runs is helpful. If yoru rain-clothing is big enough, you can use the same system of severl layers underneath, like in wintertime. Temperatures in October/November can vary a lot. Several pairs of finger-gloves make sense for immediate replacing of those who got wet