Keep Warm during your Hike
Tips by Stefan Bellika
Keep Warm during your Hike
Keep Warm during your Hike
Few outdoor practitioners are more familiar with cold than a dog sled musher. Our Lundhags friend Stefan Bellika is experienced when it comes to keeping warm, and not only during the winter. Here are his five best tips for staying warm:
1. Cuddle with a Dog
In the dog sledding industry, you often talk about “four dogs night” or “eight dogs night,” depending on how many dogs you have taken with you into the tent when it’s cold. The more dogs, the colder the night. A dog’s body temperature is 1-2 degrees warmer than a human’s, so they can actually provide significant warmth.
2. Stay Dry
Make sure to stay dry. Change into dry clothes if you get wet. Regulate your clothing according to temperature and exertion. The harder you work, the less clothing you need. If you become warm, remove an outer layer so that you don’t sweat.
3. Layer Up
The best way to maintain a good temperature is to dress in layers. Merino wool works best closest to the body. Use just the right number of mid layers, and ensure your outer layer protects against wind and moisture.
4. Keep Moving
If you start to feel cold, move around instead of sitting down and resting. Keep moving to maintain circulation and stay warm.
5. Cook Coffee
Gathering wood, making a fire, and cooking coffee can be just the right activities to create heat. Plus, drinking a hot beverage helps keep you warm.
Stay warm and enjoy your trek!