If you have booked a holiday to Lapland this year, you will no doubt
now be starting to think about what you actually need to be taking.
With temperatures that can go as low as a bone aching -30ºC, the correct
clothing is a must.
If your holiday company does not provide outer clothing, look for a
good quality childrens ski clothing that will provide a waterproof,
windproof yet breathable barrier to protect from the cold, snow and
windy conditions. This outer layer does not need to be thick like a
duvet, modern insulation materials means you can get great warmth from a
reasonably light weight, thin jacket as the warmth has already been
generated by the body and the other layers. Big, thick jackets tend to
be too heavy and restrictive and not allow moisture to wick away which
in turns actually chills the body.
Thick ski socks are ideal as they are long and provide extra warmth
up the legs and also protects them from rubbing on snow boots.
Waterproof, insulated snow boots are essential so do not scrimp on these
as cold toes make miserable children. Snow boots must be waterproof
not just resistant and you will need thick insulated soles to ensure
there is a thermal barrier between your feet and the snow and ice. The
boots tend to be bigger and heavier but when you are in thick snow you
will be grateful you chose them! Ideally you want 2.5mm frost plugs
with a thermal rating from the manufacturer assuring you they have been
tested in arctic conditions.
The next important items are the thermals, base layer (next to the
skin) and fleece for added warmth. The base layer is the thermal that
is closest to the skin and should be as tight fitting as possible
without being restrictive. The next layer should be fleece, if it is
really cold a micro fleece (thinner) and then a thicker 200g fleece
jacket (in a slightly bigger size) on top will be enough to really keep
the warmth in. The Kozikidz Micro fleece top & bottom set
is our best seller for Lapland as it protects the legs too. Avoid
cotton as it simply soaks up moisture rather than wicking it away from
the skin and out through the jacket.
Ideally you will have 2 pairs of skiing mittens
(mittens are warmer than gloves) and ensure they are again waterproof.
To protect little hands further, a thermal glove liner with provide the
thermal barrier that is essential to prevent heat loss. Chemical hand
warmers are great either in the gap between the liner and mitten or in
coat pockets. These stay warm for up to 8 hours, perfect for when you
are queueing or on sleigh rides!
Snow sun tan lotion, lip salves and wrap around sunglasses or goggles are also needed for the glare off the snow can be very strong
for eyes and also can cause skin burn.
Finally, as we all know, most of our heat is lost through our heads
so a thick hat is obvious but feedback from experienced parents tell us
that Ear Flap design hats are the best at protecting ears from the cold
icy winds. Balaclavas and neck warmers are perfect in conjunction with
hats as these can easily be pulled up over the chin and the nose to
prevent early frost bite.
All items can be bought at Little Skiers and a summary packing list can found here
by Tess Bradshaw
Little Skiers
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