In order to spend time and function outdoors in a winter climate, it is necessary to understand the human body’s ability to regulate its own temperature. Because our bodies are naturally suited for a more tropical climate, we need clothing and equipment to keep us dry, warm and safe.
The clothes you choose and how you combine them are both very important. The garments should be designed to allow good mobility and ventilation. The air inside the garment is a key ingredient in the insulation since air conducts the cold poorly. Clothing, gloves and shoes that fit too tightly allow less space for air, and therefore are not good insulators. (On the other hand, if you are wearing very loose clothing it is difficult for your body to warm up the air inside.).
One excellent method for dressing in cold conditions is the multi-layer principle. This principle makes it possible to adapt to the cold, wind and rain. The multi-layer principle divides clothing into four layers, each with its own purpose:

BASE LAYER – WICKS MOISTURE AWAY FROM THE SKIN
Moisture conducts the cold and lowers your body temperature. The base layer should transport moisture away from the skin and keep you dry and warm. In order to function well, the base layer should be rather close to the body. Good base layer materials include synthetics or wool, but cotton should be avoided. The no-cotton rule also applies to underwear, socks and bras.

MIDDLE LAYER – ABSORBS AND WICKS AWAY MOISTURE AND PROVIDES INSULATION
The second layer should continue to transport moisture away from the base layer while at the same time ensuring there is no unnecessary heat loss. The air in the middle layer provides insulation and if temperatures are very low or your activity is stationary, a thicker layer with more air is needed. Fleece or wool sweaters make good middle layers, and it is a good idea to have zippers or other openings that can be opened to release excess heat.

OUTER LAYER – PROTECTS AGAINST WIND, RAIN AND WEAR AND PROVIDES INSULATION
The third layer is a wind and water resistant shell that simultaneously keeps the cold out and the heat from the inner layers in. It also integrates with the other layers by releasing moisture. The outer layer is worn when you are active and it should protect sensitive areas such as your head, throat, wrists, waist and ankles. It should be possible not only to open the neck, sleeves and ventilation openings to release damp heat, but also to open zippers and make other adjustments while wearing gloves.

REINFORCEMENT LAYER – GIVES ADDED PROTECTION WHEN SITTING STILL
Reinforcement garments are put on when resting in the sled or when it is time to set up camp. They can be worn both on top of and under a shell garment; an extra sweater or a thermal jacket/trousers with down or synthetic padding are excellent for this purpose. Pull-over garments should be roomy so they are easy to pull over your clothes. They should be stored in the pack where they are easily accessible so you really will put them on when you take a break.
It is easy to assume that dogsledding is synonymous with extreme cold, but as you exercise you will get warm and if your overdressed you will get sweaty. Multiple layer is the best way to adjust your clothing to the amount of physical exercise. 

BOOTS AND SOCKS
Your boots should have high shaft to avoid snow from entering. Make sure you have enough space so that you can move your toes even when wearing a thick sock, which means about 10-15 millimetres from the toe to the shoe. It is also important for the boots to sit snugly around the heel. You can also use an extra sole for better insulation. Invest in quality socks made from wool or a wool/synthetic blend. Bring several pairs and change your socks during the day.

HEAD AND HANDS

Make sure to bring a hat. If its snowing use ski googles and make sure to protect your eyes against the sun. Snow reflecting the sunrays could be hazardous for your eyes. Even sunscreen is important to bring especially during the later parts of winter. Make sure that you bring five-finger gloves for precision but also mittens for extra warmth.

DID YOU KNOW THAT… 

Women get cold easier than men, in particular in their hands and feet. This is due to the fact that men normally have more muscle mass than women, which provides better blood circulation and generates more body heat. But when women and men suffer from cold fingers and toes, both should add a warm layer – to their upper body! When too much energy is being used to keep the heart, liver and other important organs warm, the supply of blood to the more peripheral parts of the body shuts down. If the core of the upper body is warm, there is more heat left over for the fingers and toes.