SHIRTS
The outer shirt of jacket should be of a
material that will stop wind and shed snow. Some slick synthetics work well.
PANTS
As with shirts, the outer pair of pants
should shed snow and block wind. Some types of ski-pants do both well. The
problem with wind-resistant synthetic outer layers (save the most expensive,
such as Gore-Tex) is that if they keep moisture out, then they'll keep it
in, too. So perspiration, wicked away from the skin by the polypro/wool
inner layers, cannot escape. At the outer layer, where it's coldest, that
moisture comes close to freezing (if it doesn't in fact), and (either way)
progressively blocks subsequent perspiration from escaping. Result: Damp
clear through. If one cannot afford the $80-400 per garment for Gore-Tex,
next best is to go with a blend of synthetics and natural fibers that'll cut
the wind and let moisture pass in both directions. I prefer
60%-synthetic-to-40%-natural blend, but 65%-35 %has proponents. If one is
properly layered, it's perfectly feasible to be comfy while the outer
surface is at or below freezing. Vapor pressure will force perspiration to
the outer surface of the outer garment, where it freezes and can be brushed
off. Snow from the outside won't melt, and it too can (and must) be brushed
away. When this is so, it doesn't really matter what the material is, so
long as snow doesn't adhere when brushed, and moisture passes through. I
have been perfectly happy in outer shells of 50%-50%.
The problem with ski-pants is that they are
cut fashionably tight, whereas baggy is warmer. Again, treated "wetlock"
fabrics popular for insulated skiing overpants won't let moisture escape. I
go with $35 army surplus baggy wool pants, and wear home-made 65%-35%
overpants (straight cut leg, draw-string waist, ankle ties (usually left
untied and just tucked into Sorrels (or gaiters when the snow is deep))).
GROUND CLOTHS AND PADS
Standing all day long is uncomfortable, but
sitting on snow just gets your highly vascular (big muscle) bottom wet,
making you cold in a hurry. Rock may be dry, but it sucks heat even faster.
I paid $6 for the cheapest closed-cell foam pad that I could find, and cut
it into 2 by 2 foot squares. Everybody carries a square on the outside of
the pack, so we can flop down anywhere and sit dry and insulated during
breaks on the trail. "Don't leave home without it."
Winter Camping
Below is a list of items I picked up from a
winter camp awareness program done by the O-A in San Francisco. This list is
about 15 years old, please keep that in mind (newer material are available).
I have added some comments at the end and have used this with our scouts
when we go camping in the mountains in the Winter. Hope this helps!
Chris Haggerty
RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR KEEPING WARM IN
THE SACK
REMEMBER: The sleeping bag doesn't heat you,
you heat it. So use this rule, "Thickness is warmth", to keep this heat. If
you're cold, add some more insulation (blankets, clothes, more newspaper).
DO NOT SLEEP IN BOTTOM OF BAG: Your breath
contains water. If you close your bag with your head inside, then this water
sticks to the bag. Wear a hat to keep your head warm.
CHANGE CLOTHES: NEVER sleep in wet clothes.
Even perspiration will chill you at night.
EAT A CANDY BAR: This increases your
metabolism (moves your blood faster) and it helps keep you warm.
GO TO THE BATHROOM BEFORE BED: This saves you
a middle of the night trip in the cold.
DO NOT DRY "WET" CLOTHES IN BAG: Moisture
will travel from wet clothes to sleeping bag.
PUT TOMORROW'S CLOTHES UNDER BAG:
This heats
up clothes for tomorrow's cold morning and also provides more insulation.
FLUFF UP YOUR BAG: Always fluff up bag before
using to create the thickness important in keeping warm.
MOST IMPORTANT, KEEP IT DRY: Keep all your
sleeping gear dry and follow these rules, and winter camp should prove to be
a rewarding experience.
IMPORTANT STUFF TO KEEP IN MIND
1. Clothing does not make you warm; it is your body processes that keep you warm. Clothing merely provides the insulation to preserve your warmth.
2. Layered thickness is warmth.
3. Keep your torso warm so that it can send heat to the extremities.
4. Avoid sweating by ventilation.
5. Keep rain and wind out of your insulation.
6. Use your head. Keep it covered when you're cold; remove cap as you warm up to avoid sweating.
7. Strain one muscle against another to maintain metabolism.
8. Wool clothing is best but needs wind protection, synthetics are next best. Down is OK as long as it stays dry, cotton is a poor choice.
9. If your feet are cold, put a hat on.
10. Remember the word "COLD" -
Keep your clothing Clean
Avoid Overheating
Wear clothing Loose & in Layers
Keep it Dry
RECOMMENDED CLOTHING FOR TWO DAY WINTER CAMP
In addition or in substitution to what you
would normally bring to camp, bring:
2 shirts (wool, best, or flannel)
2 pairs wool or synthetic pants: (Strongly
recommend against cotton pants like jeans. They absorb moisture like a
sponge).
fishnet, thermal or polypropylene underwear
boots (WATERPROOFED)
2 pairs of heavy socks (wool recommended)
2 pairs lighter socks (polypropylene is best)
Windbreaker (as is or part of heavier jacket)
balaclava or stocking cap (wool is best)
parka or heavy jacket
mittens, (WOOL, gloves not recommended except
as extra pair)
extra shoes
It is always best to stay dry when camping in
the snow, but you can expect to get wet and should be prepared. Boots or
other shoes which are not waterproof will normally start getting the feet
wet and cold after less than 15 minutes in the snow (depending on
temperature, the colder it is, the longer the feet stay dry). Low top shoes
will not keep the snow out of the shoes. Gaiters can be made from plastic
bags and a strong tape like duck tape. Do not cover the bottom of you shoes
with plastic, doing so will cause you to lose almost all of your traction
(and you will fall down!).
Unless your parents are planning to buy some
of the items on this list anyway, do not run out and start spending lots of
money on cloths and equipment. If all your pants are jeans, for example,
bring three or four pairs and change frequently. If you are in doubt or have
questions, call one of the troop leaders for advice.
WINTER CAMPING
This is what I pass out to my Scouts about a
month before our winter camporee. That gives us a couple of meetings or more
to discuss cold weather survival skills, and a chance to inform parents of
the dangers of cold weather camping when one is not fully prepared.
Brian J. Murrey - Assistant Scoutmaster and
Outdoors Activities Planner
PLANNING FOR WINTER CAMPING
Most of this information can be found in the
Boy Scout Handbook. If you are going to be doing a lot of outdoor
activities, this book is an invaluable source of know-how and advice.
"One has to lie deep in the snow to learn how
warm and protective it is. A den in the snow confines the body heat like a
blanket or overcoat. It is a snug place, no matter how hard the wind may
howl. One who holes up in the snow understands better the mysteries of the
woods in the winter. He knows why the severe weather grouse squirm their way
under soft snow and be quiet. He understands why deer bury themselves in
drifts, lying a half day or more with just their heads sticking out. He
learns something of the comfort of the bear in hibernation."
William O. Douglas, 1950
MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT WINTER CAMPING
Myth #1: Leather hiking boots will keep your
feet warm. - FALSE
- The sung fit of most leather hiking boots
can limit the circulation of blood in the foot. Especially with thick socks
on. Overboots cut generously enough to hold your foot and shoe are much more
effective. The cloth stitching in leather boots can also wick moisture into
the shoe. Nothing is worse that wet feet in cold winter.
Myth #2: Waterproof clothing is ideal for
cold weather camping. - FALSE
- To keep warm, in the cold, your clothing
must allow body moisture to escape. Moisture that is trapped too close to
the body can wick heat away through evaporation. It is better to layer your
clothing on in cold weather. Wool, Gor Tex, and polypropylene garments work
nice in the cold. Always wear insulated underwear.
Myth #3: Winter camping does not require much
preparation. - FALSE
- Arctic conditions exist when the wind is
blowing and the temperature drops below 20 degrees F. There are only seven
states in the U.S. that do not experience arctic weather. Indiana is not one
of them.. It is very important to prepare and even over prepare. I've never
heard anyone complain about being too warm or having too many dry clothes on
a winter campout.
Myth #4: Mental attitude has little to do
with winter camping. - FALSE
- A positive mental attitude is the most
important ingredient in the success of cold weather camping trips. The
demands of winter will drain your energy and you'll have to rely on yourself
to keep your spirits high.
Myth #5: In cold weather, tasks can be done
just as quickly as in warm weather. - FALSE
- Every effort in cold weather takes longer
to complete. Be sure to bring some winter patience with you when you camp in
the cold.
CONSERVING BODY HEAT - THE PRIME OBJECTIVE
There are three ways to lose body heat.
Keeping them in mind will help you be much more aware of what you are or
could be doing to keep your body warm.
RADIATION
The emission of body, especially from the
skin areas exposed to the elements. A good set of gloves, hat, and scarf can
help best in keeping bare skin to a minimum.
CONDUCTION
The absorption of cold by the body when
sitting or laying on cold ground, or handling cold objects such as metal
cooking utensils and metal canteens. This is why a decent sleeping pad is
required for cold weather camping. The same goes for wearing gloves. A camp
stool is a must on a winter camping trip. Try not to sit on the ground.
CONVECTION
The loss of body heat due to wind blowing
across unprotected body parts. This situation can also be reduced by keeping
bare skin covered with hats, scarves, and gloves. It is important to keep
exposure to a minimum, ESPECIALLY in a windy situation. Convection heat loss
can reduce body heat the fastest. Wet clothing will accelerate this process,
making staying dry even more important.
OTHER CONCERNS
Tent Placement.
Whenever possible, place your tent in a
location that will catch the sunrise in the morning. This will aid in
melting off any ice and evaporating any frost or dew that may have formed
during the night. This will also warm your tent as you awaken in the
morning. Cold air sinks. Try to place your campsite on slightly higher
ground than the rest of your surroundings. Try to choose a protected site if
it is snowing or the wind is blowing.
Water Consumption In Cold Weather.
Dehydration can seriously impair the body's
ability to produce heat. Drink fluids as often as possible during the day
and keep a water bottle or canteen with you at night.
Cooking In Cold Weather.
Cooking in cold weather will take about twice
as long as normal. Always use a lid on any pots that you are cooking in.
This will help to hold in the heat and decrease the overall heating time.
Make sure you start hot cleaning water before you start cooking. The pots
and utensils must still be cleaned. Try to keep your menu to good one-pot
meals. Things like stews, chili, and hot beans stick to your ribs, lessen
the cleaning time, and provide good sources of energy and fuel for your
internal furnace. A good high-calorie snack before bedtime will also keep
you warm all night. Stay away from an overabundance of sugar, cheese is a
good high-calorie bedtime snack.
Sleeping Tip
DO NOT sleep with your mouth and nose in your
sleeping bag. The moisture of your breath will condense in the bag, and
cause it to become wet and ineffective as an insulator.
Buddy System.
Buddies can help each other pack for a trek, look after one another in the
woods, and watch for symptoms of frostbite, hypothermia, and exhaustion.
Checklist.
Make a checklist of everything you need before you start to pack. Then check
each item off as you pack it. This way you will not forget anything.
Keeping Warm.
Keeping warm is the most important part of cold weather camping. Use the
C-O-L-D method to assure staying warm.
- C - Clean
Since insulation is only effective when heat is trapped by dead air spaces,
keep your insulating layers clean and fluffy. Dirt, grime, and perspiration
can mat down those air spaces and reduce the warmth of a garment.
- O - Overheating
Avoid overheating by adjusting the layers of your clothing to meet the
outside temperature and the exertions of your activities. Excessive sweating
can dampen your garments and cause chilling later on.
- L - Loose Layers
A steady flow of warm blood is essential to keep all parts of your body
heated. Wear several loosely fitting layers of clothing and footgear that
will allow maximum insulation without impeding your circulation.
- D - Dry
Damp clothing and skin can cause your body to cool quickly, possibly leading
to frostbite and hypothermia. Keep dry by avoiding cotton clothes that
absorb moisture. Always brush away snow that is on your clothes before you
enter a heated area. Keep the clothing around your neck loosened so that
body heat and moisture can escape instead of soaking several layers of
clothing.
Clothing.
Footwear.
As with other clothing, the layer system is
also the answer for footwear. Start with a pair of silk, nylon, or thin wool
socks next to your skin. Then layer on several pairs of heavier wool socks.
When and if your feet become damp, change into another pair of dry socks at
the first opportunity. Rubber overboots will protect the feet from water and
will allow more comfortable shoes to be worn within.
Mittens and Gloves.
Mittens allow your fingers to be in direct
contact with each other. They will keep your hands warmer than regular
gloves that cover each finger. Select mittens that are filled with foam
insulation, or pull on wool gloves and cover them with a nylon overmitt.
Long cuffs will keep wind and snow from getting in.
Headgear.
The stocking hat is the warmest thing you can
cover your head with in cold weather. Get one that is large enough to pull
down over your ears. Also ski masks are great in the winter and can help in
keeping your neck and face warm as well. Noses and ears can be very easily
frostbitten, so a scarf can be an invaluable item to have.
Parka and/or Overcoat.
Your coat or parka is the most important
piece of your winter clothing. It needs to be large enough to fit over extra
clothing without cutting off blood flow, and allowing ventilation to keep
moisture away from your body. A large permanently attached hood will prevent
heat loss around your head and neck.
Sleepwear.
Never should you sleep in the same clothes
that you have worn all day. They are damp and will cause you to chill. This
could cause frostbite and hypothermia. It is advised that you bring a thick
pair of sweats and thermal underwear to sleep in. Keep the thermals and
sweats for sleeping in only. Do not wear them during the day, this will keep
them the driest. Also be sure to have a couple of layers of wool or heavy
thick cotton socks on as well. Always sleep with a stocking hat on your
head. Your sleeping bag needs to be a winter rated bag. Typically rated down
to 15 degrees and stuffed with 5 pounds of Holofil, Fiberfil, or other
polyester ticking. It is also a very good idea to have some kind of sleeping
mat to use in the winter. The mat can be a $90 Thermal Rest from Galyans
(Scouts get a %10 discount by showing Scout ID card) or a piece of high
density rubber foam at least one inch thick. In cold weather camping you
never want to sleep on an air mattress or off the ground in a cot. The air
under you will cool you off in no time and this would create a threatening
situation. If you don't have a sleeping mat, bring a spare wool or natural
fiber blanket to use as a ground pad under your sleeping bag. The sleeping
mat is worth it's weight in gold.
Have fun!
Every year, tens of thousands of boys will go
winter camping. Although the threat of danger is always present in a winter
camp, planning and knowledge can overcome this. It is very important that
the Scouts come prepared. If a Scout feels that at this time winter camping
is not for him, then he should not go. There is always next year and the
year after and so on. If a Scout comes to camp and I do not feel that he is
prepared, I will have to ask him to stay behind. Make sure you are ready,
and most of all, SAFE.
Please Read The Website
Disclaimer!
Copyright 1986-2012, The Survival & Self-Reliance Studies Institute (SSRsi), All
Rights Reserved
Site conceptualized, designed, created & maintained by MEG Raven
Snail Mail: SSRsi, PO Box 2572 Dillon, CO. 80435-2572