Effects of an Arctic Ocean Ski Traverse on the Protective Capabilities of Expedition Footwear.

摘要

A traverse of the Arctic Ocean during a 2000-km unsupported ski expedition provided an opportunity to assess the impact of an extreme cold environment on the protective capabilities of a specialized footwear system (FS). A thermal foot model (TFM) measured thermal resistance (R, m2KW-1) of an FS in new and used conditions. FS consisted of a two-layer sock, a vapor barrier sock, a removable woolen innerboot, a NNN-configured leather/synthetic ski boot, and a waterproof gaiter. When comparing initial total R when dry, the used FS showed an actual increase of 10%. Exposure of the used FS to moisture caused significant reductions in R. Immersing the entire welt of the boot in 8 cm of water for 18 hrs reduced the initial R by a full 34%. Although the used FS had extensive physical wear to the outsole, insole, upper and gaiter, it did not show a reduction in R as a result of the expedition when compared to a new FS. This FS appears to be well chosen as it provided adequate thermal protection to the feet despite exposure to one of the world's most inhospitable climates.