December 3, 2000


What's the best waterproof gear available?

I'm going on an icebreaker to Antarctica in January. We'll be going ashore in Zodiacs, with lots of freezing spray soaking us on the way. I've been told to get the best waterproof gear available. I have a very good waterproof coat but need pants, gloves, etc. It won't be real cold (about 30 degrees) but freezing spray will kill you.

— Ralph Gebhard Rubicon, Wisonsin

Well, when things get really wet and cold, and you're doing more sitting than running around, there's only one solution: PVC-coated fabric (i.e., rubber). It won't breathe like Gore-Tex or similar fabrics, but it will keep you completely dry, and won't "wet out" like Gore-Tex can and then freeze. You say you have a good coat, but you still might look into Helly-Hansen's Impertech Jacket ($60), a great piece for this kind of use -— soft and pliable, even when very cold, and completely waterproof. Get the matching bibs for another $60.

Gloves get a bit trickier. For a bargain solution, wear wool or fleece gloves, then get a pair of heavy-duty rubber gardening gloves —- the kind that extend about halfway up your forearm —- and size them to fit over the insulating gloves. Cabela's sells a good pair of Gore-Tex, Thinsulate-lined gloves called the MT-050 glove for $35, which is a great price. I also like SealSkinz waterproof gloves, which go for about $28.

As for boots (assuming you're shopping for those, too), there are two ways to go. One is to get some good-quality rubber Wellies and put in an insulated footbed, then wear heavy wool socks. Or, go with the tried-and-true: A pair of Sorel boots, or equivalent. One recommendation: Sorel's Conquest ($80), a waterproof, insulated boot.

Anyway, that setup should keep you dry. Have a great trip!

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