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Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 2004-05: VUWAE 49

Quality, suitability and performance of field clothing

Quality, suitability and performance of field clothing

Clothing

The new Canadian goose down blue/black jackets were used by K049 members. The jackets are warm but blowing snow is easily trapped in the zip and Velcro pockets and the artificial fur ruff causing parts of the jackets to freeze solid in the limited warm/drying conditions of the field camp. The outer jacket material is also rough and does not shed snow well. Natural fur would have been a better option for the hood and the pocket closures should be improved for future purchases.

We used both Carhart insulated jackets and bib overalls and the ECW salopetts. The Carhart bibs are significantly warmer than the ECW's but the zips and closures pack blown snow freezing the garmets and making them difficult to dry. A long leg zip option for the bibs was easier to get into with boots on but trapped more snow and was colder in strong winds. The Carhart cotton Duck and ECW outer materials do not shed snow well, get wet and are difficult to dry in the field. The Carhart and Canadian Goose Jackets come only in medium sizes and larger.

Fig. 10: Challenges on Antarctic field clothing

Fig. 10: Challenges on Antarctic field clothing

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Furthermore, there are no women Carhart bibs. It would good, if a few smaller sizes and possibly women Carharts could be purchased

Overall, the Carhart garmets and the ECW's are not very satisfactory active field clothing in locations subject to blowing snow, strong winds and cold conditions. Field camps have limited warm and drying conditions for clothing.

Recommendation:
  • Antarctica NZ should investigate active field clothing that is warmer than the standard ECW's, sheds snow and is semi waterproof for some filed parties working in cold glacial locations.

Boots

Muckluks were commonly used by K049 members often with "Sorel felt' liners. These were the warmest boots available but at times were cold and also froze with blowing snow and limited drying conditions. A "drillers boot" was also trailed with a protected toe and is bulky for the foot size. This boot was colder than the mukluks, regularly required toe warmers in temperatures above −20°C and became very stiff when cold and was difficult to put on even though the boot is a "large fit". This boot would be better in a larger field camp with better drying and warming conditions.