Mertarvik, AK
Gear Library
Below are recommendations based on what we've found to work well. LKSD does not endorse any brand or company in particular. Please purchase from the retailer of your choosing.
Wind-Resistant
Wind makes us feel colder because it removes heat molecules from our skin. So, the stronger the wind, the colder we could potentially feel.
Water-Resistant
Usually water-resistant clothing is also wind-resistant as well. As the name implies, this fabric protects against rain and snow.
Layering Your Clothes
Wearing multiple layers will keep you warmer than one single thick layer of clothing because warm air gets trapped between the layers, thereby acting as an insulator.
Jackets
Interchange Jackets are a good 3-in-1 summer/ fall option. The outer shell is windproof which serves as an important barrier against the wind; some jackets will even have a waterproof shell. The internal zip-in can be worn separately or together with the shell for full protection and warmth.
Rain jackets are always in style and double as a barrier against the wind.
Medium-weight jackets are good for the transition between seasons.
For heavy winter coats we recommend getting a down-filled coat if you can. Fur collars around your hood helps catch snow and keeps your head warmer better than coats without fur.
Shoes
Boots come in different sizes, colors, textures and offer different functions depending on the season. Many teachers have a “go to” pair of boots they wear in the summer/ fall that are durable and offer a degree of warmth.
XtraTuf, Muck, and Bogs are some examples of brands we wear year- round.
Some brands, such as Attibas, have stowable spike cleats to support during icy conditions.
Gloves
We recommend having a thin pair of gloves that you keep on- hand for airplanes or boat rides.
Pants
Generally speaking, everyone wears jeans on a day-to-day basis.
Rain pants are great for when you go on boat rides or on a walk through your community. Plus, they double as a barrier against wind.
Snow pants are essential for cold weather and when you’re traveling. If you’re not familiar with cold weather clothing, we recommend you go to stores in person to try on the various pieces of winter gear you need. Many teachers like to go into Anchorage for the Thanksgiving weekend, which is a great time to shop.
Dressing for Winter
We often get a lot of questions about how to dress during winter. In short, the answer comes down to: wear layers!
Ginny is wearing a headband, high necked sweater, winter coat, and heavy winter gloves to keep the winter wind at bay.
All Things Snowpants
Watch as some of our teachers explain how and when to wear snowpants
