Off to the the CDC to get ECW gear and hopefully a flight!
Here we go! The team is off to the CDC (Clothing Distribution Center) to get our ECW (Extreme Cold Weather) gear. How's that for some acronyms? As soon as we arrive at the CDC, we were greeted by Paul who promptly informed us that our flight has been delayed for about 6 hours. The good news is that we'll still get fitted for our ECW gear. I've been waiting for this! Let's don the gear. But first, let me tell you about the rules for staying warm in Antarctica.
The Weddell seal team. From left to right - Patrick, Kim, Chris, Dr. Burns and me - Alex.
So let's talk cold weather gear. In order to dress properly, I need to first, know the rules for staying warm and second, know what to wear and why. Well, here are the rules.
Rules for staying warm:
Rule 1: Stay dry
Rule 2: Insulate by wearing layers - Or in other words - Stay warm
Rule 3: Protect yourself from the wind
Rule 4: Fuel your body
And here's what to wear and why...
Base (Foundation) Layer
Why you need it: This layer is designed to keep you dry by wicking sweat and moisture away from your body. Base Layer clothing is often made of silk, wool or synthetic (man-made) fibers. No cotton, no cotton, no cotton!! Cotton should not be worn because it absorbs sweat and holds moisture near your body. Something you definitely do not want to happen in Antarctica!
Some of the items included in this layer are:
- Long Underwear Top - light weight
- Long Underwear Bottom - light weight
- Sock Liners
- Glove Liners
- Hat
I don't have my glove liner or hat on in the picture - but they are both part of the base layer.
Alex sporting her base layers clothing - or at least part of it.
Mid Layer and Insulation Layer
Why you need it: The Mid and Insulation Layers serve two main purposes. They absorb moisture from the base layer and transport it to the environment through evaporation. They also provide extra insulation by trapping and preventing body heat from escaping. Layers can be added or removed depending on the weather. So if I get too hot - I can take some of these layers off. And, that's what I feel like doing now - it's getting a bit warm.
Some of the items included in these layers are:
- Fleece Tops
- Fleece Pants
- Gloves/Mittens
- Wool Socks
Let's start adding clothing. Here's Alex in her mid-layer clothing.
Keep those layers coming! Here's Alex in her insulation layer clothing.
Shell (Outer) Layer
Why you need it: The shell/outer layer is the most important layers. It's worn for protection from the harsh environment. Its primary purpose is to provide protection from the wind - but it also adds warmth. Snow Goggles, or other eye protection, are also worn to shield your eyes from the sunlight and the light reflecting off the snow and ice. With all of this clothing on right now, it's hard to believe I'll ever be cold in Antarctica because it sure is warm under all of this!
Some of the items included in this layer are:
- Red Parka
- Wind Pants
- Snow Goggles
- Furback Mittens
- Thermal, Rubber Boots (Bunny Boots)
Last but not least - it's the Extreme Cold Weather gear. But boy is it hot with all of this on - especially in New Zealand.
Everyone is required to wear or have this layer on the plane.
Fuel your Internal Furnace
Why?: Staying warm requires food. As your body digests food, it generates much needed heat and energy. Carbohydrates are excellent “energy foods” and are not only eaten during meals but can also be tucked away in the pockets of Big Red. Just make sure the carbohydrates you take can be eaten frozen - like a chocolate bar. Yum! In the dry and windy Antarctic climate dehydration is a concern - so I'll also need to drink plenty of water!
What's included:
- A healthy diet
- Energy Food - Chocolate Bars are always good! Wink, wink!
- Water
Note - the acronyms CDC and ECW. If you are participating in the 'Lingo' challenge - you've now got some help.