Every musher has their secrets when it comes to training plans, feeding regimens, race strategy and the like.
But there is one thing that we talk a lot about and that is our gear. All of us have our favorites that stand the test of time and can handle the elements. Whether it be a debate about a parka from Canada Goose, Northern Outfitters or Wintergreen Northern Wear. Or our preferece of boots; Bunny Boots, Neo’s, pak boots or mukluks.
There is a general consensus that a little item that cost less about a buck can be a lifesaver. Knit gloves from Target.
In the past couple winters I have almost 2300 miles on the back of a dog sled. That is about the distance from Los Angeles to Detroit on a set of runners about the width of a ruler. In sometimes brutal temperatures of -30 below, you can get frostbite on your hands real quick.
I have found doubling up two pairs of these knit gloves does the trick and still allows me full movement of my fingers to work the snaps on the gang-line or putting booties on the dogs.
These gloves don’t last too long in these extremes, just a couple of days of chores if you are lucky. I have probably gone through 50 pair already but I wouldn’t use anything else.
When we are packing for races or long multi-day trips we pack a couple pairs in each drop bag so we will have a fresh pair when we need them.
As you can see by the photo I buy them in bulk at Target. While they cost just over a buck in the winter, I found them on sale today for .60 cents for two pairs. I think I bought 50 sets and plan on buying more on my next trip to town.
Already thinking about next year. We mushers do that too.
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