Why should Decathlon have an Arctic collection? A real challenge for our teams?
When trekking, the climatic conditions encountered vary according to the trekking activity and location, which may require a specific line of clothing.
This is a challenge! Because it takes years to develop this type of equipment. Working with adventurers was a key part of the project. We didn't have all the knowledge, experience and ideas needed to deal with all the tiny details, which are an essential part of Arctic exploration. What's more, the collection had to be as comfortable as possible.
Why must the heat stay inside ? Salopettes (waterproof, windproof) padded pant = Ideal protection
MODULAR 3-in-1 SALOPETTES: it is the combination of a very warm layer (padded PANT) + a hyper protective layer (windproof SALOPETTE - winter storm & waterproof).
Warm inside! Because we make the most of the multilayer system* several layers of clothing, each with their own function, that are worn one on top of the other
- A protective layer against wind, rain and snow
- heat layer to fight against the cold
- under-layer that transfers moisture
Have you already heard about the multi-layer system? it isn't complicated and it’s very important
It has come here from Northern countries: Canada, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Iceland. The MULTI-LAYER system is a way of dressing used by the locals to stay comfortable outdoors during their activities regardless of the temperature. The system means using several layers of clothing that all have different functions. Clearly, this technique is essential to perfectly regulate the temperature of your body when at rest, and especially when making a physical effort.
How does my Arctic PADDED pant keep me warm?
Removable padded trousers with voluminous fill ending at the ankles. The knees have a pocket in which you can add removable foam pads for more comfort.
They can easily keep you company in bivouac and even in your sleeping bag. They were also designed as a supplement for ideal warmth.
Can you really hike in these salopettes?
We decided on a minimalist design for these unisex salopettes to offer you trousers that remain practical and help your stride
The cut of these trousers has been carefully developed and is generous enough to wear an insulating inner layer with maximum freedom of movement.
Our collaboration with our partner explorers has clearly helped us in designing these salopettes.
Are these 3-in-1 modular salopettes too warm?
The two-way side zips can be used to let out excess heat during activity which can be intense skiing with or without a sled.
This padded pant is 100% removable and very warm. It doesn't always have to be worn under the waterproof salopettes. Quite the contrary, in the middle of the day or when engaged in a physical effort or hiking, it is more comfortable not to wear it.
How to prevent snow from getting inside at the ankles?
Our salopettes have elasticated gaiters at the ankles that cover the shoes or boots. If you fall or are in contact with fresh snow, the seal created by the gaiter keeps the snow out.
We're talking about waterproofing, but what is the water-repellent property of my salopettes for?
The water-repellent property of a fabric is its capacity to make water run off its surface without absorbing it.
The Arctic 900 salopettes have water repellent components that prolong their resistance to the weather (moisture, snow, rain). This technical solution keeps you dry for longer at your trekking location by retaining as much heat as possible. To remain effective, this treatment must be restored regularly using the products sold in our stores.
Water often gets in through the seams. Do my salopettes have taped seams?
Yes. As well as having a waterproof fabric (8000 schmerber), we enhance the waterproofing of the salopettes with TAPED SEAMS. These are waterproof, adhesive strips taped to the inside seams of the garment to make it perfectly watertight. These taped seams are present on the areas most exposed to the snow, e.g. the seat and all the seams most exposed to the snow and those needed to assemble all the parts.
How can I be sure my gear is strong enough?
We know how demanding a day of Arctic Trekking can be when the vegetation is thorny. That’s why we take particular care in choosing all the elements that make up our products to guarantee the best possible resistance to friction.
Our adventure partners identified the most used areas and the knees, buttocks and lower legs have been reinforced with an ultra-resistant material.
Pocket design specific to Arctic adventure
Two roomy bellows pockets on the legs for a map or gloves for example.
Two extra pockets at the waist, one outer and one inner, both with zip
A small chest pocket for added protection
Easy to use, even outside in the cold!
The long, two-way waterproof side zips get rid of excess heat and let you take the salopettes on and off easily without taking off your shoes or skis
They have a folding seat feature which is practical in the cold and the braces have a rear opening position for quick bathroom breaks
Durability of the PADDED pant
To prevent deterioration of the main component, padded trousers should be worn underneath the salopettes to avoid contact with vegetation.
To understand, how is the water resistance of our component measured?
We measure a fabric's resistance to water pressure, expressed in terms of the height of a water column in mm (based on the ISO 811 standard). The higher the water pressure, the more waterproof the fabric. The main component of our jacket has a waterproof rating of 8000 schmerber, i.e. it can withstand the pressure exerted by an 8000 mm column of water. This is equivalent to 100L/m2/hour of water for 3 hours, i.e. a mountain storm.
How is recommended temperature measured? in a laboratory following a rigorous protocol
We tested the thermo-neutral T1 (neither hot or cold) temperature in a laboratory. of this SET (Modular jacket + Salopettes)
These results were obtained in line with the ISO 11079 standard, in conditions of activity intensity equivalent to the metabolism of a slow hike (4 km/hr) in snow with a back load of 10 kg.
Reference temperature categories used in our laboratory tests
T1-The temperature of thermal neutrality or Thermo-Neutral equilibrium is a safe temperature, which can be tolerated over a very long period (the tester feels neither hot nor cold)
T2-the cold equilibrium thermal temperature is a safe temperature, which can be tolerated over a long period & cools the body slightly, with a feeling of being cold especially in the hands and feet)
T3 & T4 are limit temperature ratings: although the person isn't comfortable, the product can be used for a short period
When we pull a pulka, or a sled, what temperatures can we hope to withstand with this set?
Pulling weight along snow is much easier than carrying it on your back (it reduces the weight’s by two thirds), it won't happen without effort! or a lot of heat!
These results were obtained in the laboratory and during field tests in the coldest places on earth with temperatures in T1 = -25°C; T2 = -33°C for a small load of 10 kg. (km/hr) and for a larger load > 30 kg T2 = -40°C (4 km/hr) and beyond if the strain is very intense
Can you pull a pulka or 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 (lasting a few days to a few weeks). You can carry all your equipment with this means of transport: tent, duvet, personal belongings.
Please note that all temperatures stated are indicative. They act as a guide not an absolute truth
Yes, even though our equipment is subjected to field tests in the coldest places on earth. Our standardised laboratory tests have a high level of objectivation, however every person is different, as is their experience and feeling. In extreme conditions, it's important to keep in mind that these temperatures are indicative. Each individual should adapt their equipment to their own needs to guarantee their own safety.
