RESEARCH & INNOVATION
WHAT TO WEAR , UP THERE
Before she headed to the research vessel Polarstern to study how ice “ breathes ” from the ocean to the atmosphere , we talked to Scripps Institution of Oceanography PhD student Emelia Chamberlain about what ’ s needed on an Arctic expedition :
Layers and Layers “ It ’ s all about layering to prevent overheating . When we ’ re working on the ice , we need protection from the cold , but also from overheating , which seems counterintuitive . When taking ice cores or sampling water , you can end up sweating , which will increase your chances of getting too cold later because it will freeze . We plan for three layers of clothing : an underlayer of moisture-wicking thermals , a mid-layer with sweat pants or thermal leggings and a wool sweater or puffy jacket , and then a third layer of snow pants and a big outdoor jacket .”
Double Gloves “ You bring two pairs into the field , so you can wear one and keep another tucked under your jacket to warm near your body . When your fingers get cold , you switch them out and put the others back to reheat .”
Filled Pockets “ Out on the ice , the warmth of your body is the most important source of heat . So your pockets are often stuffed with things — like batteries , a camera , and a water bottle — all right next to your body so they don ’ t freeze .”
Emelia Chamberlain , PhD student , Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Safety Equipment “ Head lamps are mandatory for winter months of 24- hour darkness . Same with a signal whistle in case you get separated . Available on board the vessel are special survival suits , for when weather conditions are harsh . These suits are bright red , so it ’ s easier to see someone hurt or lost from the ship .”
Eyewear “ I wear glasses , so I have to be careful — the plastic can get cold and break . I prefer to use big ski goggles for protection from sunlight and its reflection off the snow ; they also keep my glasses warm .”
Face Coverings “ I ’ m a big fan of scarves and neck gaiters — I find that if my neck is warm , the rest of me will follow .”
Boots “ You don ’ t want your boots too tight because it ’ s dangerous to cut off circulation , bringing greater risk for frostbite . Multiple socks are fine , but you need air in your boots to stay warm .”
Comfort Items Chamberlain also brought plenty of audiobooks , downloaded movies , and research papers to review in her downtime , as well as stuffed animals from her nieces and nephews . What ’ s one thing you ’ d make sure to bring for several months at the North Pole ? Tell us — tritonmag @ ucsd . edu
Read more about the expeditions aboard Polarstern at tritonmag . com / upthere
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