Photojournalist looking for suggestions....

[thibs]

Hello all,

 

Getting ready for my first winter in northwestern alaska this december. Hoping to find some suggestions on places for clothing and reliable brands to withstand -30F - 0F. As I live in Texas it's needless to say my experience with this gear is nill. Thanks for any help!

Edited November 29, 2006 by thibs

[Figger_Eight]

There's this company in Seattle called Feathered Friends I'd suggest

[wfinley]

Brands like FF rock but are too expensive and not bomber enough for everyday usage; I'm assuming you'll be working somewhere on the slope - if so you'll want:

 

- Big fat Sorrels or Bunny Boots for your feet

- A gigantic jacket with a fur lined hood

- Giant coveralls

 

The best place to get these are in anchorage on your way up North. Go to 6th Avenue Outfitters, B&J Commercial or Eagle Outfitters. Tell the sales guys where you'll be living and they'll set you up.

 

As a side note - North Face sells a fat polar jacket with a fur hood. I've seen them at Costco in the past.

[thibs]

thank you both for the suggestions. I actually just came across 6th Avenue Outfitters a second ago. To give you some background I'll be living on an island in northwestern alaska no climbing, but some hiking once on the mainland in open terrain, heavy winds, moisture, etc...otherwise just daily island living and shooting. Thanks again, I'll keep checking the post if anything else comes to mind. Take care!

[wfinley]

Where will you be? Little Diomede?

 

I have a question for you; how will you keep your camera / batteries warm?

[thibs]

I'll be on shish, looking into how to keep the camera warm. As for batteries, bringing up a good number keeping them close to the body until needed. Word has it that while the cold definitely lowers the battery's ability to supply power, it still holds a charge but must be rewarmed....we'll see. I have a coworker that spent sometime out your way when the temps were around 35 below and came back impressed with how hardy the new digitals are. Not sure that I'll see that low of temps this time of year but trying to take every precaution.

 

While I have you, I was originally looking at northern outfitters gear. What are your thoughts on their insulated liners and soft shell parka combination? Starting to feel like I've gone head first down the rabbit hole with all the gear choices. Think the biggest think I'm lost on is finding suitable pants. Would you suggest insulated pants with some sort of bib layer, or just a an insulated pant with layers beneath it?

 

Thanks alot man for the help, it's greatly appreciated.

[wfinley]

I really couldn't tell you about specific brands for the environment you're going to. I've been to alot of cold places but I've always worn expensive climbing garments.

 

However... here's what I wear for winter trips up here:

 

Base: Patagonia Mid-weight Polypro

Mid Btm: Patagonia Tights

Mid Top: Cheap strechy fleece (cheap b/c I always seem to lose them)

Outer Btm; Gortex Bibs

Outer Top: Gortex Top

Insulated Btm: Integral Designs Denali Pants

Insulated Top; FF Rock & Ice Parka

Feet: Scarpa Invernos

Hands: Gloves sized one size too large for extra warmth

Head: Nice hat and balaclava

 

If I were you I'd hit 6th Avenue, B&J (corner of C and Northern Lights) and the Army Navy Store (corner of 4th and C) and listen to everyone's speal and then make your decision.

 

If you're looking for lighter stuff for hiking AMH will sell you a good down coat and some lightweight boots. Likewise Barney's (northern lights & spenard) carries some good boots that are popular with sheep hunters up north.

 

[thibs]

Wow man,this was far more than I'd expected. Thanks for taking the time out to help. I really appreciate it. I'll probably be taking your advice and hitting the stores you mentioned. Feel better about getting the clothes in person than over the net. Thanks ever so much. Hope all is well.