Seeking Clothing Recommendations for a Summer Arctic Trip

I have my camping gear sorted out, but I need some advice on clothing for mid-August in the Arctic. I’m looking for suggestions on base layers, mid-layers, and pants. Additionally, I’ll be doing a lot of photography, so I need gloves that are thin enough for camera work but still provide warmth. TIA

I’m just here to admire other people’s setups, but could you share a link to your photography page? Your trip sounds amazing, and I’d love to see your photos!

Vic said:
I’m just here to admire other people’s setups, but could you share a link to your photography page? Your trip sounds amazing, and I’d love to see your photos!

I’d love to see that too. Might inspire my own adventures!

How about a full bodysuit made of hand warmers?

I was in Nanortalik last August. It had a cool wind but warm sun. The temperature varied a lot, and I’m sure it will be even more variable where you’re going. It’s best to bring several thin layers that you can add or remove as needed, especially if you’ll be moving around a lot.

Blubber might work.

Jordan said:
Blubber might work.

How much blubber would I need?

Teo said:

Jordan said:
Blubber might work.

How much blubber would I need?

About five seals’ worth.

Check out Buffalo clothing from the UK. They’re great for cold climates.

That sounds like an intense adventure. Make sure you’re prepared for the extreme cold with heavy-duty layering, thick gloves, merino wool, a -40F sleeping bag, and sleeping pads with a high R-value.

Zayden said:
That sounds like an intense adventure. Make sure you’re prepared for the extreme cold with heavy-duty layering, thick gloves, merino wool, a -40F sleeping bag, and sleeping pads with a high R-value.

I think an R-value of 7 might not be enough. You might need to stack a couple to stay warm.

@Nico
You could consider the MegaMat 15 LXW with an R-value over 10 for extra insulation.

I recommend Carhartt Yukon Extremes coveralls. They’re excellent. Pair them with a good base and mid-layer, and you’re set. For boots, the Snow Monsters from Baffin are great.

If you let me know your region and gear needs, I could help you get in touch with 4th Element dealers for a good discount.

For extreme cold, I use a setup including UA ColdGear, Patagonia layers, and a Torrid Apex jacket. I pack extra layers like Alpha 120 and MH Stretchdown. For gloves, I stick with Outdoor Research and Black Diamond—they’re great for tech use.

Carinthia makes excellent quality outdoor clothes and sleeping bags. They’re based in Austria and supply to special forces, so their gear is top-notch.

Take a look at Arms of Andes for base layers. They have 420 weight alpaca wool leggings that are outstanding for cold weather: Men's Alpaca Wool Leggings: 420 Midweight | Arms of Andes