Field Gear
(Suggested Items)
Note: You can spend a lot of money on field gear but you do not need to. This is a list of the essentials that you will need with explanation.
Rubber Boots
If you plan to use them in the future it is recommended that you purchase a good pair of insolated boots (800g or more), make sure they are absolutely waterproof and that they reach your mid calf or higher. You can get an inexpensive pair that is a little large so that you can wear several pairs of socks. If you buy a low quality pair of boots, then bring two pairs because they often wear out and spring leaks.
Jackets
It is best to dress in layers. A waterproof shell (gortex or similar) can be worn over top of a warmer jacket on cold days or by its self on a warm day. For example, I have a water proof jacket that I almost always where, a fleece jacket that I wear underneath, and a fleece vest that I wear over the fleece jacket but under the rainproof jacket. On really cold days I have a sweater that I also wear. With the three layered jackets I can mix up what I wear depending on the weather.
Rain Proof Jacket
It should be large enough to be worn over a winter jacket. Do not get a poncho because your arms will get wet.
Warm Winter Jacket (or equivalent under layers)
It will be in the low 20's and 30's in August. It will be in the high 30's and low 40's much of the summer. This may not seem too cold but when you are sitting in one place during a light rain for many hours you will be happy to have a warm jacket.
Light Jacket (or a thin layer)
For the occasional nice day.
Water Proof Pants
They do not need to be expensive. A pair that is not lined is recommended because they will dry quickly. It is easier to wear long underwear and a thick pair of pants for warmth. Make sure that they have good stitching and that they are truly waterproof. If you bring two pairs you will be prepared when they rip, which they most likely will.
Long Underwear
You will want material that wicks the water away so that if you work up a sweat walking you are not cold and wet the rest of the day. You will want long underwear pants. For your upper body some people prefer long or short sleeve shirts/underwear. The thickness of the material will vary depending on the person but you will want something wick away to keep you upper body dry. Some people overheat and get uncomfortable with thick upper body long underwear, while others find them very comfortable.
Thick Comfortable Socks
You will want comfortable socks that keep your feet warm. You will find that one good pair is much better than tying to put on multiple pairs. I suggest a material that wicks the water away so that if you work up a sweat walking you are not cold and wet the rest of the day and in case you spring a small leak in your boots or step in deep water. You want to make sure they also fit well with your boots. Rubber boots in particular have very little give/flexibility and the fit may depend a lot on the types of socks you are waring.
Head Warmer: Hat and Scarf
The best way to keep your feet warm when you're working is to wear a good hat. You lose most of your body heat through your head and neck. Thus, a good hat is essential. A scarf or equivalent is also a must. Make sure that you have a waterproof hat or hood. A hat with a big brim will also keep the sun off your face.
Fingerless & Regular Gloves
You will want to keep your hands warm while taking measurements. Some days will be colder and wetter than others, and on some days you will need more finger dexterity. Remember, gloves get wet so it is good to always have a second pair that is dry. On cold days you may want a thin pair of glove liners to wear under the fingerless gloves; this will keep your hand warmer yet still allow dexterity of your fingers. Find what is comfortable for you. Numb fingers are less dexterous than fingers with some covering, but few people can function properly with ski gloves, thus it is important to find the happy median that works for you. You may find a ski glove or even mitten works great for your left hand but that you need more freedom for your right hand. Rubber gloves for dishwashing also work on really wet days.
Backpack / Book bag
This will be used to carry your scarf, extra gloves, hat, binoculars, camera, lunch, water, and field equipment.
Lightweight Pants and Long-Sleeve Shirts
You will want a pair of lightweight clothing that will be cool to work in but also able to stop mosquitoes from biting you. In Atqasuk it can get as warm as the mid 70's, but during these days people generally wear long sleeves and head nets to protect against mosquitoes.
Head Net
An absolute must for Atqasuk. Try several different types and decide for yourself, which is most comfortable. Black netting is strongly recommended.
Sunglasses
The sun is low on the horizon and there is often a glare.
Warm Clothes
You will probably find it best to dress in layers. It is good to have an extra layer of clothes in your backpack for when the weather changes. You will spend a lot of time walking and sitting on your knees. You will generally have long underwear on, thus make sure your clothes are comfortable. Expect them to get dirty and abraded.
Knife/Leatherman etc.
You will be amazed how many times you may need a Swiss-Army-type knife while working in the field.
Hiking Boots
There are some dry areas where you can hike. The field sites also have boardwalks making it possible to take off your rubber boots and wear something more comfortable while working. In town hiking boots are generally desirable because it is often muddy. There is no pavement only gravel.
Alarm clock
You will want an alarm clock for your room.
Sun protection
While the sun is low on the horizon and of relatively low intensity you will be outside for many hours and will want sunscreen for your face and hands and chapstick with SPF.
Optional
Workout Clothes
There is a gym in Barrow with weights, basketball, stair machine, swimming pool etc. You may also want a swimsuit for a plunge in the ocean if you are really daring. You will need sneakers (not hiking boots) to enter.
Sandals
I find it nice to have a pair of sandals by the door so that when I take off my rubber boots I can slip on sandals and walk around the lab etc comfortably. Sandals are nice because they give your feet a chance to breath through the thick socks. Similarly, you may want sandals or slippers to use in the bathroom at night.
Thermos Flask
It is nice to drink something warm when you are cold.
Camera and Binoculars
There are lots of animals and plants to see and photograph.
Fishing Gear
There are fish if you are interested, but it is not great fishing.
Walkman and Boom Box
You may want to listen to music while working particularly when the mosquitoes are bad and you are working alone. A boom box may be nice to listen to in your room or in the lab.
Books
Many people take novels to read in the evenings.
Nice Clothes
It would be good to have a nice outfit to go to seminars in town, church, or out for dinner. There are also dances in Barrow, similar to a dance club in the lower 48. One summer George Winston came to Barrow and several people went to the concert.
General Comments
Fleece or wool is much better than cotton. The biggest problem you will encounter is the balance between working up a sweat walking out to the field site and staying warm while working. We will need to work every day regardless of the weather conditions so make sure you are prepared and comfortable. The project will provide bug repellent and kneepads.
Everything you think you will need for the summer you should take with you (batteries, toothpaste, etc). There are stores in Barrow but they are often expensive and the selection can be very limited. There are laundry facilities in Barrow and Atqasuk.
Barrow does not sell alcohol. It is legal to possess it but you must bring it in yourself. We do not encourage this and it will not be allowed in the lab. Alcohol is illegal and not allowed in Atqasuk.
Field clothing is not always easy to find particularly when looking for warm gear during the summer. Military surplus stores, sporting goods stores (Dunham’s, MC Sports etc), and farm related stores (Quality Farm and Fleet) are often more economical than true outdoors stores (Gander Mountain, Dicks).
There are also many catalogs that you can order equipment from such as REI, Cabela's, Mountain Gear and Campmor. There is a wide range in pricing and quality in many of the items you will need. Everyone seems to have his or her own opinion, thus there is no universal advice to give, but the cost is not always related to the quality. If you have the time and are willing to send merchandise back, it is usually worth the extra effort to order equipment from a catalog for both quality and considerable savings.