The Arctic tundra covers an area in the far Northern Hemisphere, including parts of Alaska, Canada and Russia. The tundra's ground is permafrost, meaning it’s permanently frozen. Permafrost makes it impossible for trees and many other plants to grow. Although the landscape is stark and mostly barren, some areas of the Arctic tundra are incredibly beautiful and attract visitors who love the challenge of this rugged terrain.
Basic Clothing Needs
Dressing in layers is best, as they allow breathability and air circulation. Always choose synthetic fibers, because they draw sweat away from the skin and keep you warmer than cotton and other organic materials. An insulated foundation layer, in the form of long johns and a long-sleeved top, is essential.
Visiting in Summer
In summer, temperatures throughout the Arctic tundra oscillate between the 30s and the 50s Fahrenheit. During the warmer days, some of the soil melts, making waterproof boots a priority. Middle insulation layers are the ones you will probably remove when it gets warmer. These layers should ideally be made of polypropylene fleece. The Arctic tundra gets very little precipitation, so there's only a small risk of rain getting your clothes wet. However, your outer layer should still be waterproof in case you fall or make contact with the ice and melted snow.
Visiting in Winter
Very few companies organize tours to the Arctic tundra in the winter. Those that do might only take experienced hikers and explorers. Temperatures can be as low as -30 F. Visitors should buy specialized Arctic equipment, which can run into the thousands of dollars. Although parkas are a good option, insulated snow suits are better, because there’s less of a chance for cold air to get in. A balaclava is better than a hat for protecting the head, face and neck, because a regular hat will allow some heat to escape.
Regardless of the time of the year, you will need thick gloves or mittens to protect your hands -- the risk of frostbite is high in the Arctic tundra. For summer, you might be fine with just fleece or wool gloves. For colder days, you need mittens that are layered so they're waterproof on the outside but have fleece on the inside. Specialized winter mittens sometimes come with an extra piece of material that covers the wrists and parts of the arm to prevent ice from getting inside your sleeves. To protect your feet in winter, wear boots that are made for Arctic weather and able to handle temperatures down to -40 F. A number of outdoor specialty and sporting goods companies make specialized winter boots.
- Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images