Recommendations For
Winter Visitors
Wool and its
synthetic substitutes such as pile are the preferred materials for inner
clothing. "Cotton kills" is the simple motto of most winter mountaineers. While
wool wicks moisture away from the body , cotton absorbs it and, thus feels cold
and clammy; wind and wet cotton can quickly lead to hypothermia. Easily removed
layers of clothing make it possible to maintain steady body heat in varying
degrees of effort and temperatures. Windproof outer clothing, such as a hooded
parka and windpants, should be a basic part of everyone`s
equipment.
Since much of one`s heat
loss is through the head, warm wool caps or balaclavas are recommended. This
headgear should be wearable under a climbing helmet. Face protection against
the high winds is a necessity above timberline (masks and balaclava are best)
and frequently welcome anywhere in the Park. A second pair of sunglasses
capable of dealing with bright snow conditions is good
insurance.
Wool mittens are warmer than
gloves, and windproof shells over these assure added warmth. A spare pair of
mittens should be carried in one`s daypack. Proper footgear can be of
life-and-death importance. Some prefer double boots; some like single boots
with insulated gaiters or overboots; while others swear by rubber-soled pacs
with felt liners. The latter are among the warmest of footgear and well liked
by snowshoers and as camp footwear by cross country-skiers. Rubber-soled pacs
with felt liners and U.S. surplus moonboots or "Mickey-Mouse" boots are not
rigid enough to be safely fitted with crampons.
Acceptable Boots for Winter Technical climbing:
- Rigid soled double climbing
boots made of leather or plastic.
- Pac lined boots with felt liners
and rigid vibram soles.
Supergaiters; are not an
accepted substitute for boots listed above. All boots should be adequately
waterproofed and further protected by snowproof gaiters reaching to just below
the knee. Remembering that heat loss comes from the body and not from the
footgear, one should allow for plenty of insulation around the foot (at least
two pairs of heavy wool socks in mountain boots and cross country boots) and a
slightly loose fit so as not to interfere with blood circulation. Spare socks
are a must.
Many like to carry a down
jacket or parka for use around camp, for emergency bivouacs and to wear in
extreme cold. However, since rain is a possibility in Maine at any time of the
year, and because wet down offers little in the way of protection, one is
better off relying on wool or synthetic pile for all-around use since the
latter materials are little affected by water and will keep one warm even when
wet. Supplement these basics suggestions as needed, with a light woolen shirt
or sweater, trousers, etc., remembering that the weight and bulk of clothing
will quickly fill the pack and leave little room for food and essential
gear.
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