A basic guide on how to dress for the extreme cold (-40C/-40F)
How do I stay warm in -30C and colder weather in the Yukon?
With the recent cold snap in the Yukon I felt like it was a good time to share how I’m able to get out and enjoy the weather without freezing. This weather is no joke, you can get frostbite in 15 min or less but it can be beautiful if you know how to endure it. This is what I wear for low intensity activities like walking, light hikes, shooting the northern lights, etc. I actually find I can get too hot in this if I’m doing things at a higher intensity.
In the cold you want to avoid getting sweaty so sometimes that means you might need unzip to let some heat out or even slow down your pace. Whatever do you, do NOT wear cotton. When cotton gets wet it gets cold and will take forever to dry — wools and synthetic materials are the way to go.
📍 Cold Weather Tip:
Always keep these layers with you if you’re driving in the north. Hypothermia and frostbite can get you in minutes so I’ve also always been told growing up to keep my warm layers with me even if you aren’t wearing them! Be safe out there ❤️
Let’s get into it — a basic guide of what I wear in -40C/-40F:
📍 Base Layer:
A thick merino wool base layer to add warmth and wick away sweat. Kari Traa is by far my favourite base layers made for women because of the fit.
Rose Half Zip Baselayer Top - 100% Merino Wool from Kari Traa - this base layer not only fits great but looks good too. I love the high neck and half zip so that you can zip it down if your warm
Rose High Waisted Baselayer Pants - 100% Merino Wool from Kari Traa - I have battled to find the baselayer bottom that fits just right but I have finally found it. It’s high-waisted and fits curves so it won’t fall down when you bend over or move around which is super annoying when you are wearing a bunch of layers and can’t reach it.
For Men: Icebreaker , Smartwool
📍 Socks:
Some thick merino wool socks are the way to go. Toe warmers are always a good addition.
📍 Down Pants:
Your legs tend to get neglected, you need a layer of insulation to stay warm. I prefer down for these types of conditions.
Women's Ghost Whisperer™ Pant from Mountain Hardware or Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Pants- I have the Stetchdown Pants but it seems like they are discontinuing it?? Not sure why because it’s amazing so the Whisper would be a good alternative. I put these on when I want to be extra warm and cozy.
📍 Fleece:
Add a layer of insulation with a thick fitted fleece.
📍 Balaclava:
This is often the step people forget but it’s so important to protect the skin on you face and to help you breath in the cold. I prefer them over neck warmers because they aren’t constantly falling down and battling with your hair.
📍 Toque/ Beanie:
Add a layer of insulation to your head. Go for thicker warmer materials like wool.
📍 Snow Pants:
I went for some typical lightly insulated waterproof snow pants for skiing. This layers adds more insulation and breaks the wind
📍 Down Parka:
This is the show stopper. This jacket I’ve had for a long time and it’s like wearing a sleeping bag with a 800 down fill that retains it’s loft well. It’s designed for challenging environments like Mt. Everest or the Antarctic. I really like it’s hood and high neck, it really helps protect you for the elements. Alternatively, an expedition style parka like a Canada Goose would work really well as well.
📍 Glover liners:
Adding a thin layer synthetic glove brings surprising amount extra warmth and allows you to take off your mitts when needed and avoid freezing your hands as quickly.
📍 Gore-Tex Mittens:
Insulated and waterproof mitts is the secret to warm hands. I’ve had the mountain hardware mitts for a long time and they still hold up.
📍 Winter boots:
This year I decided to get a pair of Fubuki boots after never being quite satisfied with my winter boots and I haven’t looked back since. They are incredibly light, warm and waterproof as well as have great grip. They are rated for -30C but I find I can push them even further. If you are going to be standing a lot, adding some toe warmers wouldn’t hurt.
