What to wear for dog sledding largely depends on the temperature and how long you will be out. The most important rule is to dress in warm, layered clothing that keeps you dry. This guide will give you the best tips on what dog sledding gear you need to stay safe and happy while mushing.
Why Proper Clothing Matters for Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is an exciting winter sport. However, it happens in very cold places. You need the right clothes to enjoy the ride. If you are too cold, you cannot have fun. If you get wet, you will get even colder fast. This sport involves both sitting still and working hard. When you sit, you get cold. When you run or help push, you heat up quickly. Good clothes help you manage these changes. They trap heat when you are still. They also let sweat escape when you are active. This balance is key to enjoying cold weather dog sledding attire.
The Core Concept: Layering for Winter Sledding
The secret to staying warm in the cold is layering for winter sledding. You should plan for three main layers. Each layer has a specific job. Think of it like building a cozy, warm wall around your body.
The Base Layer: Wicking Away the Sweat
The base layer touches your skin directly. Its main job is to move sweat away from your body. If sweat stays on your skin, you will freeze. Choose materials that dry fast.
- Good Choices: Merino wool is excellent. It stays warm even when damp. Synthetic materials like polyester or polypropylene are also very good. They wick moisture well.
- Avoid: Never wear cotton as a base layer. Cotton soaks up sweat and stays wet. Wet cotton means you will get very cold, very fast. This is a major safety issue when arctic sledding clothing is needed.
The Mid Layer: Trapping the Heat
The middle layer is all about insulation. This layer traps the air warmed by your body. The more air it traps, the warmer you stay. You might need one or two mid layers depending on how cold it is.
- Fleece Jackets and Pants: These are light and warm. They trap a lot of air for their weight.
- Down or Synthetic Vests/Jackets: If it is extremely cold, a thicker mid-layer is smart. Synthetic fills work well even if they get a little damp. Down is very warm but loses its heat if it gets wet.
This mushing outfit needs flexibility. If you get too hot, you can take off the mid layer easily.
The Outer Layer: Protection from the Elements
The outer layer is your shield. It needs to block wind and water. This layer stops cold air from stealing your body heat. It must also keep snow and ice out.
- Jacket: Look for a shell jacket that is completely windproof. It should also be waterproof or highly water-resistant. The best dog sledding jacket balances warmth and breathability. Many mushers prefer a shell jacket over a heavily padded one, relying on the mid-layers for heat.
- Pants: Waterproof dog sledding pants are essential. You sit on a sled or stand in deep snow. Your legs will get wet if your pants are not tough. Look for bib-style pants or high-waisted snow pants. They should have vents you can open if you heat up.
Specific Gear for Extremities: Hands and Feet
Your hands and feet get cold first. Protecting them is vital for safety and comfort. This is where quality dog sledding boots and gloves make a huge difference.
Feet: Keeping Toes Warm
Your feet are often cold because they do not move much while sitting on the sled runner.
- Socks: Start with a thin, synthetic or wool liner sock. Then, add a thick, heavy wool sock on top. This follows the layering rule—two thinner layers are usually warmer and better at moving sweat than one very thick layer.
- Boots: You need serious winter boots. They should be rated for very low temperatures, perhaps -20°F or lower, especially if you are what to wear for sub zero sledding.
- Height: Boots should be tall enough to keep snow out when you step into it.
- Fit: Do not wear boots too tightly. Tight boots cut off blood flow. Poor circulation makes your feet colder, no matter how good your boots are. Leave space for your thick socks.
Hands: Warmth and Grip
Your hands need warmth, but you also need to hold the sled bars securely.
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Gloves vs. Mittens: Mittens are generally warmer than gloves because your fingers share heat. For dog sledding, many mushers prefer a two-part system:
- Liner Gloves: Thin, touch-screen compatible gloves you wear underneath for dexterity. You can use these for quick tasks without exposing your full hand to the cold.
- Outer Mittens: Large, heavily insulated, and waterproof mittens. These are your main defense against the cold.
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Wrist Cinch: Make sure your outer gloves or mittens have good wrist straps or cinches. This keeps snow from flying up your sleeve if you fall or lean over the sled.
Head, Neck, and Face Protection
A lot of heat escapes through your head. Protecting your face is also crucial when cold wind hits you at speed.
The Head
- Hat: A thick wool or fleece beanie that covers your ears is a must. If you wear a helmet (often required when standing on the sled), ensure your hat fits comfortably underneath.
- Balaclava: This piece of gear covers your whole head, neck, and face, leaving only holes for your eyes and mouth. A good mushing outfit always includes a quality balaclava. It protects your skin from frostbite on windy days.
The Neck
- Neck Gaiter or Buff: This is better than a scarf. It stays put and keeps the gap between your jacket and your face covered. Pull it up over your nose and mouth when the wind picks up. Choose one made of fleece or wool.
Eye Protection
- Goggles or Sunglasses: Snow glare is intense. You need protection.
- Goggles: Best for very windy or snowy conditions. They offer full coverage.
- Sunglasses: Good for clear, cold days. Make sure they are polarized to cut glare from the snow.
Essential Extras: The Details That Matter
Beyond the main clothing layers, a few small items make a huge difference in your comfort level during a long day of dog sledding gear use.
Hand Warmers
These small chemical packs are lifesavers. Carry several pairs. Stick them inside your mittens or place them over the back of your hands (where major blood vessels are close to the surface). They provide hours of targeted heat.
Inner Vents and Zippers
When you are jogging up a hill behind the sled, you will sweat. You must be able to cool down quickly without taking off entire layers.
- Pit Zips: Zippers under the arms of your jacket are great for venting heat.
- Leg Vents: Zippers on the side of your snow pants allow you to dump heat from your legs quickly. Use them often!
Keeping Your Gear Dry
Moisture is the enemy. If you sweat too much, your gear will soak through and freeze later.
- Drying: As soon as you are done mushing, get your wet base layers off. Hang them up to dry immediately. Do not leave them balled up in your duffel bag.
- Waterproofing Maintenance: Treat your outer shell and pants regularly with waterproofing spray. This helps them shed snow and ice effectively. This is key for maintaining effective insulated layers for dog sledding.
Specialized Considerations for Different Conditions
The ideal dog sledding attire changes based on the weather report.
Mild Cold (Above 15°F / -9°C)
If the temperature is mild for winter, you can pare back your layers slightly.
- Base: Standard mid-weight merino wool.
- Mid: One fleece layer.
- Outer: A good waterproof/windproof shell.
- Hands/Feet: Standard insulated gloves and medium-weight boots should suffice. You likely won’t need extreme sub-zero rated gear.
Deep Cold (Below 0°F / -18°C)
When facing true arctic conditions, maximum insulation is mandatory. This is when you prepare for what to wear for sub zero sledding.
- Base: Heavyweight wool or dual base layers (thin poly liner plus heavy wool).
- Mid: Two distinct insulating layers—perhaps a thick fleece pullover AND a puffy synthetic vest or jacket.
- Outer: A heavy, insulated parka or a very durable, windproof shell worn over bulky layers.
- Hands/Feet: Use vapor barrier liners inside your boots if extreme cold is expected. Use heavy-duty expedition mittens and carry backup chemical warmers. Your dog sledding boots must have high temperature ratings.
Windy Conditions
Wind multiplies the chilling effect of the cold. This is called wind chill.
- Focus: Prioritize your wind-blocking layers. Ensure your outer shell is totally windproof. Seal all gaps: cinch cuffs, pull your neck gaiter high, and ensure your hat covers your ears completely. Wind resistance is more important than raw bulk in these situations.
Apparel Comparison Table: Layer Choices
This table helps clarify choices for your layering for winter sledding system.
| Layer | Purpose | Best Material Choices | Items to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Wicking Moisture | Merino Wool, Polypropylene | Cotton |
| Mid | Trapping Heat | Fleece, Light Puffy Jacket (Synthetic/Down) | Heavy sweatshirts that restrict movement |
| Outer | Blocking Wind/Water | Durable Nylon Shell, Gore-Tex | Light rain jackets with poor wind resistance |
| Extremities | Protection | Wool/Synthetic Socks, Insulated Mittens | Thin gloves or tight-fitting footwear |
Final Checks Before You Go
Before you head out to the kennel, do a final check of your mushing outfit.
- Are all zippers up? Check your jacket cuffs, neck gaiter, and pant vents. Closed zippers keep warmth in and snow out.
- Is my face covered? Windburn and frostnip happen fast. Pull that neck gaiter or balaclava up!
- Do I have extras? Always pack an extra pair of dry liner gloves or hand warmers in a secure, warm pocket. Losing dexterity because your gloves are damp is dangerous.
- Is my outer shell clean? Dirt and oil break down the waterproofing on your outer layers. A clean shell sheds water better.
Getting the right cold weather dog sledding attire is an investment in your adventure. It allows you to focus on the dogs and the beautiful scenery, not on shivering or sweating uncomfortably. Prepare well, dress smart, and enjoy the ride!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Sledding Clothing
Q: What is the single most important piece of dog sledding gear?
A: While many pieces are important, the single most critical item is a high-quality, moisture-wicking base layer. If your base layer fails to move sweat away from your skin, no amount of outer insulation will keep you truly warm or safe.
Q: Can I use my regular ski clothes for dog sledding?
A: You can use some items, like ski pants, if they are very durable and waterproof. However, ski gear is often designed for downhill skiing where you sit often. Dog sledding involves running, standing, and sudden stops. Your dog sledding gear needs more vents and perhaps more rugged outer shells than standard ski gear. Look specifically for waterproof dog sledding pants designed for high activity.
Q: How important is it to have boots rated for extreme cold?
A: If you plan to be out for hours, especially if you are new and might be standing still more often, it is very important. When what to wear for sub zero sledding, your dog sledding boots and gloves must be rated several degrees colder than the expected temperature. Better too warm than too cold!
Q: Should I wear a heavy coat or rely on thin, insulated layers for dog sledding?
A: Rely on insulated layers for dog sledding. A heavy, bulky coat restricts movement and makes venting heat difficult. A good system uses a thin, wicking base, a warm fleece/puffy mid-layer, and a windproof shell. This allows you to adjust your warmth easily throughout the activity.
Q: Do I need specialized dog sledding boots, or will regular winter boots work?
A: Regular heavy winter boots might work for very short, mild trips. However, for serious arctic sledding clothing, dedicated dog sledding boots are better. They are often taller, less bulky for better fit in bindings (if you are a musher), and rated for colder extremes than average casual winter boots.
Q: What about the wind when I am moving fast?
A: Wind resistance is crucial. If the wind blows right through your clothes, you will freeze quickly. Make sure your mid and outer layers are fully windproof. A good balaclava and a high-collared jacket are key components of your mushing outfit when dealing with speed and wind chill.