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Icetrek Polar Expeditions and Equipment

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24.01.2022 Technology on expeditions (2/2) The technology that is required can vary from expedition to expedition, depending on location, time of year, length of trip, etc. Having said this, the tech that would be found in our sleds on the majority of expeditions would be as follows: Mobile phone:... Used primarily for communication (when connected to Iridium GO modem), also used for entertainment (ebooks, audio books, music, TV shows, movies, etc.), as well as for taking photos. Iridium GO modem:Allows satellite connection and email with photos capability on a mobile phone, predominantly used for updating the daily blog and replying to emails, and talking to loved ones. Equiped with an SOS button for triggering an emergency response. Battery pack + cables: Required to keep phones, cameras and other devices charged, our go-to is the Anker PowerCore 20,000mAh or Silicon Power C20QC. YB3 tracker: Used for tracking and uploading positions to the expedition blog. Also does emailing via an app and capable of triggering emergency response. Heavier than the InReach but vastly superior battery and screen life. @garmin eTrex 30x GPS: Used for navigation, plotting routes, and finding the exact Geographic North Pole! Iridium Extreme satellite phone: Safety back up in case of mobile/Iridium GO failure. Camera: Used for capturing memories to share with others when we get home. Solar panel: Used to charge battery packs and devices on Antarctic expeditions, we use Anker PowerPort Solar but with some modifications. Have you got any brand/model recommendations for us? Anything you think we’re missing? We are always on the look out for the best tech for extreme conditions!

23.01.2022 We are offering a new trip to Antarctica, particularly suited to those with a penchant for small groups, remote locations and photography.

22.01.2022 Just a reminder that there’s only three days left of our 25% off sale! Follow the link to the online store to see what’s in stock https://icetrek.com/equipment/shop Also, did you know that we sell T-Shirts? Yep! They’re 100% organic cotton and come in a range of colours and sizes, and of course have our funky logo on the front!... If you’d like 25% off, enter code YESYOUMAY at checkout

22.01.2022 Our hands are one of the most valuable tools we have, not just in polar expeditions but in life! The success of an expedition can often hinge on having warm and protected hands, as we rely heavily on them to complete necessary tasks such as setting up the tent, eating, cooking, dressing, toileting, repairing equipment etc. Thus, our mittens are one of the most precious bits of gear that we have on an expedition. The Icetrek Kelvin polar mittens, are specifically designed wi...th polar conditions in mind. They are comprised of a warm, thick fleece inner mitt, and a durable polyamide outer shell with a grippy and reinforced palm and thumb. The unique Pull Loop is what makes the Kelvin mittens come into their own in the polar world. Attached to the inner mitt, the Pull Loop makes it easy to get your mitts on when it's super cold and eliminates bunching of the inner when you slide damp sticky hands into the mitt. Those who spend time in cold places know that the first mitten is usually fine, it’s getting the second one on that causes issues. The Pull Loop completely removes this problem by being long, accessible, and requiring zero dexterity to slide mittens on fast and effectively. Hands down the best mitt there is! Pair them with a adjustable neck lanyard, and you’ve got yourself the best extreme cold hand system on Earth! You can find the Kelvin polar mittens in the Icetrek online store https://icetrek.com/equipment/shop

21.01.2022 What we’d rather be doing! Even though trips haven’t been running, we’ve still been busy! We have been working hard, planning new trips, developing new equipment, and ensuring that we’re ready for adventure once we’ve crossed the Covid crack!

20.01.2022 Ruff Ruff A fur ruff is an essential item that has been used for generations by polar aboriginals and explorers to keep their faces protected against cold and wind. Many lay people assume that a ruff is just a signature piece worn by modern adventurers to complete the explorer look. Equally, many polar adventurers don’t quite get the geometry right and sport ruffs that are too short, poorly placed or made from inappropriate fur, ultimately providing little protection for the...Continue reading

20.01.2022 Baffin boots are our go-to polar boot for expeditions, and the boot we recommend to all our clients. When used in conjunction with Icetrek Flexi bindings, Baffin boots offer the perfect balance of comfort, warmth and practicality, crucial criteria when selecting expedition equipment. For many of us, our boots have been sitting unused in the shed, or in the back of the cupboard for quite some time now. Fingers crossed we can dust them off and get back out there soon! Where will your boots be taking you next?

20.01.2022 Yet another unfortunate prediction for the flagship species of the Arctic Recent research has predicted that localised extinctions will be effective by 2040, just 20 years from now, and sadly this is a conservative estimate. This will effect the polar community; both those who live in the Northern most regions, and those who choose to adventure in the Arctic.... Decreasing sea ice is pushing bears into populated areas, meaning an increase in human-bear conflicts. As we know, the combination of people and hungry, desperate polar bears is not a good one, and does not result in a happy ending, no matter the outcome. Unlike other species, polar bears cannot be saved by relocation or breeding programs, the only thing that can save them is protection of their habitat by tackling climate change on a global scale. A mammoth task, one that can easily overwhelm an individual, but one that must be at the forefront of our minds. The little things do count! Make those everyday swaps that may seem insignificant. Call people out on their laziness. Stand up and be an advocate for the planet. https://www.theguardian.com//most-polar-bears-to-disappear

17.01.2022 Technology on expeditions (1/2) Technology is of paramount importance on polar expeditions, predominantly due to its ability to keep us safe and communicate should we need assistance. Technology on expeditions can also play a crucial role in: ... updating support operators with position and health reports automated tracking efficiency (accurate weather, access to information that aids decision making) emotional wellbeing (communicating with loved ones) comfort (music/entertainment) capturing the experience (photos, videos, blogging, etc.) and for us and many others, running a business! (social media, marketing, addressing inquiries, equipment sales, etc.) Technology can be thought of in many different ways. To many people, the term ‘technology’ might simply mean electronic gadgets. However, another aspect of technology is that of materials; most commonly fabrics (e.g. Goretex), metals and plastics (the UHMW polyethylene used in our Flexi bindings). Technology might also refer to a specific component or feature of an item, such as the twist or hinge locks that you might use to adjust a ski pole, or the valve on a sleeping mat. Thinking about our reliance on technology, and the integral part it plays in modern day expeditions, truly sheds light on just how trying and treacherous the pioneering journeys of early polar explorers would have been. In our next post you’ll find a breakdown of the essential tech we take with us on our expeditions. What must-have technology do you take on your trips?

17.01.2022 Every adventure is different, and many expeditions these days combine modes of travel! For example: Skiing and riding Skiing and kiting... Kayaking and skiing Sailing and skiing The options are endless (but skiing is a must have for us ). What’s your dream adventure combo?

15.01.2022 TENT BAGS When travelling in a polar environment, it is crucial to maximise efficiency and minimise time spent undertaking tasks that require dexterity. So why then, would you fully pack up your tent (take out poles, fold up each segment, roll everything up, and then spend 10 minutes trying to fit it into a tiny bag!) at the start of the day, just to do it all in reverse at the end of the day!? ... Our tent bags are designed to make the tent packing and unpacking process as quick as possible, allowing a reduction in set up/pack down time of around 80%, meaning you can spend more time moving towards your end goal, or relaxing and recuperating in the warmth of your sleeping bag Simply leave your poles installed, fold them in thirds, roll the whole thing up in a long cigar and stow it in the bag. Stash the bag under the sled cover or strap it to the top. No mess, no fuss. Then, at the end of the day when you’re tired, cold and needing refuge, grab out your tent bag, reverse the process and the tent will be up in minutes The tent bags are available in two different fabrics, 70 denier ripstop nylon for those looking for the lightest option, and 300 denier polyester for bomb proof durability There are a number of features which make these bags the perfect accessory to any expedition: A half-length two-way YKK zipper makes stuffing easy and a convenient handle at mid-point makes carrying a breeze. A pull-strap at the end of the bag allows quick removal of the tent from the bag. The polyester model is perfect for doubling as a ski/pole bag when you’re travelling. The lightweight nylon model weighs just 185g To check out our full range of cargo and travel bags head to the Icetrek store https://icetrek.com/equipment/shop

15.01.2022 Did you know we're on Insta? If you're a fan of freezing, frigid, frosty photos of frozen places, follow along! https://www.instagram.com/p/CDZ7iWJBizr/

14.01.2022 Introducing the Omni sled harness The Omni is our newest model of harness, and perhaps our best yet! You’ll notice that the Omni doesn’t come in a range of sizes or gender-specific fits, that’s because its unique design makes it fully adjustable. The Omni has six points of adjustment including height and width sizing straps, as well as your standard waist and shoulder cinch straps. ... This harness is a pocket rocket, lightweight and sleek yet strong and supportive. It weighs just 780g! The modular design, and lack of a rigid metal back frame, means that the Omni packs down small and light, saving you precious space and weight in your baggage allowance. In so many ways, the Omni is the ultimate harness: Buying for someone but don’t know their size? No worries, the Omni will fit! Got an adventurous partner who might want to use your harness? Perfect, the Omni will fit both of you! Run an adventure business and want to kit out your clients but don’t know what sizes to buy? All you need is a set of Omni harnesses! Buying for a young person who’s likely to grow? Great, the Omni can grow with them! Going on a long expedition and worried your waistline will shrink? No stress, the Omni will have your back through thick and thin! The Omni features quick release buckles, premium moisture wicking air-mesh lining, stainless steel tow points, and accessory gear loops. The Omni is compatible with Icetrek harness/hauling accessories such as the equaliser, strain reducer and compass mount. Head to the Icetrek online store for info, specs and pricing! https://icetrek.com/equipment/shop

12.01.2022 TENT TIME It’s a given on an expedition, you and your tent are going to be spending a lot of time together. Down time is inevitable, and on those days when you’re hemmed in by a bliz, or have a rest day due to fatigue, injury, and the like, you’ll be faced with hours on end spent sitting in the tent.... For us, tent time is spent reading, writing, resting, doing body maintenance and blister prevention, talking with loved ones, repairing equipment, sharing adventure stories with your tent buddy (and then maybe plugging in your headphones for some ‘quiet time’ after the third hour of listening to them talk about some spiritual experience they had on a mountaineering expedition one time ), of course all with a can of Pringles at the ready! How do you spend your tent time? . . . One must-have piece of gear for tent comfort is the Icetrek Rekliner (or the Icetrek Polar Swag if you’re a bit of a gear freak ). These mattress sleeves convert into comfy chairs, allowing seamless transitions between sleeping and lounging for those long days in the tent. Beating the ‘I don’t wanna get up this morning’ mood is not so hard when you can look forward to reclining with a morning cup of coffee! To check out the Rekliner and the Polar Swag head to the Icetrek online store https://icetrek.com/equipment/shop

11.01.2022 What’s the best thing to do when you’re stuck at home? Plan future adventures of course! We know that due to the uncertainty surrounding the current global situation, it can be hard to fathom signing up for a trip. So, we’ve decided to offer refundable deposits on all 2020 trips booked after the 30th of March. This means that you can book yourself a spot on any of Icetrek’s Australian or Antarctic trips, with the confidence that you won’t lose out if the world is still in m...eltdown mode when adventure time arrives. These images might help you figure out what kind of experience you’re after. Perhaps standing atop Mount Kosciuszko? Polar training in the Australian Alps? A ski expedition to the South Pole? Or maybe epic photography opportunities while you explore the mountains of Antarctica, and hang out with Emperor Penguins? All of these options (and more!) are eligible for refundable deposits. Head to the Icetrek website for more info and inspiration https://icetrek.com Secure yourself a spot on a trip, and isolation will fly by as you spend your days packing, planning and dreaming about your upcoming adventure!

10.01.2022 Looking for an adventure close to home? Well the roof of Australia is open! The Kosciuszko National Park has been given the green light for camping, and it's time to explore our own country! With winter underway, and some good early snow events, it's looking to be a brilliant season for some back country adventuring. Icetrek has a number of experiences available, from day trips through to 7-day fully self sufficient ski tours. Check out our website for dates, prices and booking information. https://icetrek.com/join-a-trip/australia

10.01.2022 Where was this photo taken? This icy landscape might fool you into thinking this is a team setting up camp en route to South Pole, but it’s actually right here in the Snowy Mountains of Australia! This snap was taken on our Australian Alps Winter Advanced trip last year. The Kosciuszko National Park can be a useful training ground offering very testing conditions, despite having to occasionally swap your beanie for a sun hat! ... With restrictions now easing, we’re planning for a full Aussie Alps season next year! We’ve got a range of trips to offer, see the website for dates and booking info (link in bio) @pagodroma

09.01.2022 On an Icetrek-guided North Pole expedition - one of our coldest offerings - we maximise comfort in what is a fundamentally uncomfortable environment. While maintaining the principal objective of moving across the sea ice, staying warm, safe, well fed and well rested are key. On the trail - minimal intervention equipment; high-energy palatable food that’s easy to prepare; pacing that maximises ground covered, minimises sweating and optimises group cohesion; precision sled-pack...ing for balance and accessibility, coaching in venting and layering... In camp - minimum 6 R-Value mattresses; spacious fast-pitch reinforced tents; safe in-tent kitchen; camp seats for resting hard-working backs; adequate stove fuel for warming and drying; extreme-cold sleeping bags; allocating 8 hours for sleep; moisture management; best-practice thin ice and polar bear security... While we design and manufacture extremity wear and equipment for high latitude adventures we also modify existing gear to minimise exposure of vulnerable fingers. Frostbite and other cold ailments don’t just happen, they are a manifestation of poor management and behaviours that can be traced back to expedition planning.

09.01.2022 Icy adventure faces

09.01.2022 Grateful for time spent in Antarctica this time last year, with IPGA Master Polar Guide José Naranjo José has a wealth of experience guiding expeditions throughout Greenland, the Canadian High Arctic and to the South Pole. A native of Spain with a perfect command of English, he brings a latin flair to our trips together with his trademark calm and compassionate demeanour. José is principal guide on our Chinese South Pole and Emperor penguin trips out of Cape Town. No doub...t Antarctica is a very different place this year, compared to last. Although COVID-19 has been a blow to the tourism industry, we can celebrate the period of rest and quiet for Antarctica and the beautiful species that call it home. See the link below for an interesting article on the impact of Covid on Antarctic tourism, science, and on the continent itself. http://www.bbc.com//20201011-what-will-happen-to-the-7th-c

07.01.2022 Antarctic Wildlife The coast of Antarctica supports an immense amount of wildlife, and in the summer months, the land, sea and sky come alive with the movement and sound of life. The Antarctic coast and sub-Antarctic islands are home to 8 species of penguin and 6 species of seal.... A total of 61 bird species have been recorded in Antarctica, some resident like the penguins, but most migrating down for the warmer months. Similar to the Arctic, the waters surrounding Antarctica, are a temporary home for many cetaceans, 17 species to be exact! Here are some wildlife images from our Antarctic trips.

06.01.2022 We’re dreaming of days like this! Svalbard Expedition, 2018 It’s 30 degrees today here in Australia We can’t wait to get back out on the ice!... Do you like hot weather adventures too, or are you strictly cold climate like us?

04.01.2022 We are very proud to release our new promo film with excerpts from Antarctica, the Arctic Ocean, Greenland and Svalbard. Take your polar ambitions to the ends of the earth by visiting www.icetrek.com. Happy adventures.

03.01.2022 Our preferred style of isolation This pano shot was taken on one of our Svalbard trips last year, what a stunning place to camp! Whilst we were devastated to miss out on our annual Svalbard expeditions this year, it is fantastic to hear that the island has not had a single case of Covid-19!

02.01.2022 2021 North Pole season dates While we know that adventures are on hold for now, there’s no harm in planning the next one! 2021 Last Degree expeditions:... April 6-16, FULL April 16-26 AVAILABLE If you’d like to join us on a trip, head to the Icetrek website to reserve yourself a spot on our April 16-26 expedition.

02.01.2022 Introduction time! Hi I’m Mardi Philips, the daughter of Eric Philips, and I am an aspiring polar guide. I am also the Icetrek ‘social media officer’ (fancy title i know ), and it has been a pleasure taking up the responsibility of giving you an insight into the world of polar adventuring!... A bit about me: I am 24 years old, and live with my partner and my dog in East Gippsland, Victoria. My passion for the outdoors began at a very young age, fueled by an adventure filled childhood of sea kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, bushwalking, etc. (thanks Mum and Dad)! After finishing school I completed my Bachelor of Outdoor Education, and began working in the Outdoor Education industry, sharing my passion with young people! When I am not working, surprise surprise, I like to spend my time adventuring! Whitewater kayaking is a favourite activity of mine, along with rafting and fly fishing, I love being in and on rivers. I visited Antarctica for the first time when I was 12 years old, and returned again just last year, but this time as an assistant guide! My first proper polar experience was a 9 day expedition in Svalbard four years ago, a place which I have visited many times since, and have fallen in love with (seriously, google it, it’s stunning ). During that trip I learned so much from just watching my dad. Adventuring with him in his element - the Arctic environment; a place I’d had a lifetime of vicarious experience in, but had never actually visited- truly solidified my desire to become a polar guide. It has been a long-time goal of mine to ski to the North Pole, but as many of you know, the last two years have not favoured those trying to get to the top of the world!! It’s a work in progress! In the meantime, I will gain as much experience as I can, and turn my focus towards gaining an International Polar Guides Association (IPGA) qualification. Next on my to-do list is a mountaineering course in New Zealand, which will ensure I am up to scratch in areas such as glacier travel and crevasse rescue, essential skills for polar guiding. If anyone has any course recommendations, let me know! Anyway, that’s me! Happy adventuring

02.01.2022 Arctic wildlife When you think of an adventure to the Arctic, you might think of frigid temperatures, and icy wastelands devoid of life (bar the odd polar bear) but that is certainly not the case! The Arctic is home to a multitude of mammals, including reindeer, seals and wolves, as well as many smaller critters such as the Arctic fox and the Arctic hare.... There are 14 regionally endemic bird species of the Arctic, with more migrating North for the warmer months. Throughout the year, the Arctic Ocean is host to 16 species of cetacean (whales, dolphins and porpoises) There is plenty of wildlife to be seen up North! Here are some animals we’ve spotted on our Arctic trips over the years.

01.01.2022 Our decade-long relationship with Australian company Mont Adventure Equipment is one we cherish very much. As well as using their off-the-shelf down and fleece clothing and base layers, we are also very proud to sport their bespoke shell suits every time we step onto the polar ice. A joint design partnership, these highly-breathable Hydronaute PRO shells have been slowly tweaked over the years to incorporate every feature needed on a long and demanding expedition and we’ve us...ed them on new routes to the South Pole, ski expeditions from North Pole to Canada, across Greenland and on multiple shorter trips. What’s so good about them? Jacket Tilt and volume adjusters on the hood Storm collar Chest pocket and high slash pockets that don’t foul on the harness Long two-way pit zips and two-way main zipper No tape sealing for additional breathability Pants No-bib braces (bibs are silly, adds another layer that needs venting) Full-length two-way side zippers with long slider extensions that hang below the jacket hem for easy access Fly opens from bottom to top, easier to get to No zippers on waist pockets, zips are uncomfortable under a harness belt Vertical-zippered thigh pockets, contents fall into your hand as you unzip Articulated knees with sleeves for knee pads Wide leg bottoms to accommodate thick boots All zippers on these suits are YKK #5 Vislon Standard, not the #3 AquaGuard zippers common on most shell clothing these days, which get very stiff in the cold. Also our zippers have underside flaps so they can be operated unhindered. We designed this suit to vent on the go with polar mitts on, no stopping to struggle with Velcro’d storm flaps. Just like you don’t see Formula One cars on the street you won’t find these shells on a shop stand. They are a flagship product made just for us. Thanks Mont - Aussie ingenuity that takes us to the ends of the earth. www.mont.com.au

01.01.2022 It was disappointing to miss out on our Aussie snow season this year! Luckily it seems that the Australian snow gods held back a bit in our absence, so fingers crossed they’re saving it all up for next year! For those of you looking for a winter adventure close to home, we still have availability on our Australian Alps trips next year! We’ve got experiences to cater for every skill ability, ranging from ski and snowshoe day trips, through to a week long polar training progra...m! Head to https://icetrek.com/join-a-trip/australia for trip details and booking info.

01.01.2022 Our 'Yes You May' sale is up and running! For the whole month of May we are offering 25% off all Icetrek equipment in stock when you use the code: YESYOUMAY This includes: Sleds Bindings... Harnesses Extremity wear Sleep systems Accessories ...many of them hand-made in Australia. Head to the Icetrek online shop to find your next bit of kit! https://icetrek.com/equipment/shop Get in quick as this offer is only while stocks last! Don't forget to enter the code YESYOUMAY at checkout

01.01.2022 Amidst the current fear and chaos gripping the world, it is important to be reminded of the positives, the ‘good news’ stories. Although Icetrek’s Arctic season will not be going ahead this year due to COVID-19, we were delighted to find that Adventfjorden (a small bay on which the arctic town of Longyearbyen is situated) has frozen over! This is the first time in 15 years that temperatures have dropped and remained low enough for the fjord to freeze. The cold temperatures ...and subsequent increase in sea ice is a major win for the polar bears of Svalbard. Polar bears use frozen fjords to hunt seals, and build a reserve of fat for the warmer months. In seeking out the sea ice that provides such vital hunting grounds, they often travel large distances overland. To arrive after such a journey, and find only an expanse of open water and no ability to hunt, can mean the bears life in the balance. The increase of sea ice and frozen fjords coupled with the acute and immediate drop in tourism, ought to provide some welcome respite for this vulnerable species #svalbard #visitsvalbard #polarbears #climatechange #frozen #goodnewsstory #smallwins #vulnerablespecies #icetrek