First layer - worn next to the skin. Lightweight layer that will wick moisture away from your body to keep you dry. Materials such as: Capilene, polypropylene, fleece-Capilene blend.

Mid-layer - your insulating layer worn over the first layer to trap body heat. May be wool or synthetic and should be medium- to expedition-weight, dependent on how easily you get chilled. Materials such as: Synchilla, fleece, Polartec, synthetic fiber-filled, wool. Note: wool is bulkier and very slow to dry.

Outer layer - A synthetic shell that keeps the heat in. Alaska Discovery will provide heavy-duty rubberized rain coats and pants. For rainy days, this will be your outer layer. If it is cool, but not raining, you will need a wind jacket and wind pants. Many guests opt to bring light-weight raingear (nylon or goretex) instead. This is a great idea, as it will work well as a windbreaker, but may also be worn during very intermittent, light drizzles.

The kinds of clothing we recommend can be purchased at sporting goods stores or through mail order catalogs. You may even find everything you need at discount or used clothing stores. It isn't necessary to spend a lot of money to be comfortable and safe.

Remember, NOTHING MADE OF COTTON or with down filling will keep you warm or dry in wet conditions! Cold, wet, cotton clothing will introduce you to hypothermia, a state of dangerously low body temperature. For warm, sunny days it is fine to have a cotton t-shirt and shorts, but NO COTTON for any article of clothing expected to provide warmth.