Why an Arctic collection at Decathlon ? A real challenge for our team?
When trekking, the climatic conditions encountered vary according to the activities and locations, which may require specific clothing lines. A challenge? Yes, it takes years to develop such equipment. Collaboration with adventurers was fundamental, as we didn't have all the knowledge, experience and ideas to tackle all the necessities of Arctic exploration and make the outfit as comfortable as possible.
Why should warmth stay inside? Overalls (waterproof, windproof) + down pants = Ideal protection
This MODULAR 3in1 SALOPETTE combines a very warm layer (PANT down jacket) with a highly protective layer (SALOPETTE windproof - blizzard & waterproof).
Warmth stays inside, as we make the most of the multi-layer system (several layers of clothing, each with a different function, which can be superimposed):
- Protective layer against wind, rain and snow
- Warmth layer to combat the cold
- Moisture-transferring underlayer.
Have you ever heard of the multi-layer system? It's not complicated and it's very important
It comes to us from the northern countries: Canada, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Iceland. Multi-layering" is a way of dressing used by locals to stay comfortable outdoors during their activities, whatever the weather. The system involves the use of several layers of clothing, all of which perform different functions. Clearly, this technique is indispensable for perfectly thermoregulating your body during rest and, above all, exertion.
How do my arctic down jacket pants keep me warm?
Removable, voluminous down-filled pants end at the ankles. The knees have a pocket for removable foam for added comfort. It can easily accompany you on bivouacs and even into your sleeping bag. That's what it's designed for, too, as an ideal warmth complement.
Can you really hike in these overalls?
We've chosen a minimalist design for these unisex dungarees to ensure that they remain practical and easy on your stride. The cut has been carefully crafted to be loose enough to accommodate an inner insulating layer and guarantee maximum freedom of movement. Our collaboration with our partner explorers has clearly helped us in the design of these dungarees.
Aren't these 3in1 modular overalls too hot?
Zippers that open in both directions on the sides can be used to release some of the excess heat during what can be an intense ski-to-toe effort, with or without a pulka. These down pants are 100% removable and very warm, so you don't always have to wear them under your waterproof overalls. On the contrary, at the height of the day or the effort, hiking without them will be much more pleasant.
How can I prevent snow from entering my ankles?
Our dungarees feature elasticated gaiters at the bottom of the legs to cover shoes or boots. In the event of a fall or contact with fresh snow, the hermeticity of the gaiters prevents snow from entering.
They talk about waterproofing, but what good is the water repellency of my overalls?
A fabric's water repellency is its ability to let water slide off its surface, without absorbing it. Artic 900 overalls are equipped with water-repellent components that prolong their resistance to bad weather (humidity, snow, light rain). This technical solution enables you to stay dry for longer on your practice field, while retaining maximum warmth. To remain effective, this treatment must be renewed regularly with products sold in our stores.
Water often gets in through the seams. Do my overalls have taped seams?
Yes, in addition to waterproof fabric (8,000 schmerber), we reinforce the overalls' waterproofing with waterproof seams. These are waterproof adhesive strips applied to the seams inside the garment to make it perfectly watertight. These watertight seams are present on the areas most exposed to snow, generally the buttocks, and on all the most exposed seams necessary for the assembly of all parts.
How can I be sure that my equipment is strong enough?
We know how tough a day's trekking in the Arctic can be, and how aggressive the vegetation can be. That's why we take particular care in selecting all the components that make up our products to guarantee the best possible resistance to friction. The most stressed areas identified by our partner adventurers have been reinforced with an ultra-resistant component in the knees, buttocks and lower legs.
Arctic adventure pocket system
Two gusseted leg pockets, roomy enough for a map or gloves, for example.
Two additional waist pockets, one on the outside and one on the inside, both with zippers.
A mini breast pocket for added protection.
Easy to use, even outside in the cold!
The long, waterproof, two-way side zippers evacuate excess heat and make it easy to put on or take off the overalls without removing boots or skis. It has a fold-down seat function that's handy when it's cold, so the position of the shoulder straps means you can open the rear section for a quicker toilet break.
Durability of down-filled pants
To avoid damage to the main component, the down pants should be worn under the overalls to avoid contact with vegetation.
How is the impermeability of our components measured?
We measure a fabric's resistance to water pressure expressed in mm water column (test based on ISO 811). The higher the pressure, the more waterproof the fabric. The main component of our jacket has a waterproof rating of 8,000 schmerber, i.e. it withstands the pressure exerted by 8,000 mm of water. This corresponds to the equivalent of 100l of water / m2 / hour for 3 hours, the equivalent of a mountain thunderstorm.
How is the recommended temperature measured? In the laboratory, following a rigorous protocol.
We tested the thermal neutrality T1 (neither hot nor cold) of this outfit (modular jacket + overalls) in the laboratory. These results were obtained in accordance with the ISO 11079 standard. We applied the following conditions: an intensity of use corresponding to the metabolism of a slow hike (4km/h) in snow, with a 10kg load on the back.
Classification of reference temperatures used in our laboratory tests
T1 - Thermal neutrality or Thermo-Neutral equilibrium is a safe temperature that can be tolerated over a very long period (neither hot nor cold).
T2 - Thermal cold equilibrium is a safe temperature that can be tolerated over a long period with the body slightly cooled, with a sensation of cold, particularly in the extremities.
T3 and T4 are limit temperatures. They do not represent comfort, but rather the possibility of use over a short period of time.
When you're pulling a pulka or a sled, what temperatures can you expect to withstand with this equipment?
Pulling weight on the snow is easier than carrying it on your back (it almost divides the felt weight by 3), but it won't be effortless! And a lot of heat! These results, obtained in the laboratory and during field trials in the coldest places on the planet, suggest temperatures of: T1= -25°C T2 = -33°C for a light load of 10 kg (Km/h) and for a heavier load > 30 kg T2 = -40°C (4km/h) or even higher if the effort is very intense.
Can you pull a pulka or a sled with this equipment? But what is a pulka?
For the Nordic hiker, the pulka replaces a large backpack. It is mainly used for Nordic raids (from a few days to several weeks). This means of transport allows you to carry all your equipment: tent, sleeping bag, personal belongings, etc.
Please note that all temperatures given are for guidance only. They are an aid to choice, not an absolute truth.
Because even though our equipment is field-tested in the coldest places on the planet, and our laboratory tests provide a high level of objectivity, each individual is different, as are his or her experiences and feelings. In extreme conditions, it's important to bear in mind that these temperatures are only indicative. Each individual must adapt his or her equipment to his or her own needs, so as to guarantee his or her own safety.