Hello, I’m zukky.
Unless you are staying in a glass-domed hotel, observing the Aurora in winter is fundamentally a battle against the cold. Proper cold weather preparation is absolutely essential.
The better prepared you are, the longer you can stay outside, and the greater your chance of seeing the magnificent Northern Lights!
This article details the must-have clothing and gear for your Arctic adventure.
Finnish Winter Temperatures are Colder Than You Think
The Finnish winter typically lasts from November to March (starting from mid-October in the Arctic Circle, north of Rovaniemi). The period where temperatures frequently drop below -20°C is generally December to March.
Let’s look at the average minimum temperatures in January (2024) for two popular Aurora destinations:
| Location | Average Minimum Temp (Jan) | Average Maximum Temp (Jan) |
| Inari (Optimal for viewing) | -17°C (1.4°F) | -9°C (15.8°F) |
| Rovaniemi (Famous Aurora Spot) | -14°C (6.8°F) | -8°C (17.6°F) |
These are average temperatures. The time when the Aurora is most likely to appear is late at night, when temperatures are at their lowest.
On some nights, the temperature can drop to -20°C, -30°C, or even -40°C (-40°F).
When I stayed at a friend’s mökki (cottage) in Inari, the temperature dropped below -30°C, and my cheeks felt like they were tearing off—it was painful. Be warned that in this temperature range, cell phone and camera batteries die almost instantly!
The Science of Cold: How Your Body Loses Heat
Understanding how your body loses heat in extreme cold allows for more effective preparation. In frigid conditions, heat is lost through four main routes.
| Mechanism | Description | Prevention Strategy |
| 1. Convection | Heat loss via wind and contact with cold air. (The most significant factor.) | Wear windproof outer layers and seek shelter from the wind (e.g., in a forest). |
| 2. Radiation | Heat loss as infrared energy radiating directly from the body, especially exposed skin. | Minimize exposed skin (hat, scarf, face mask) and use multiple layers to trap heat. |
| 3. Conduction | Heat loss through direct contact with cold surfaces (e.g., the ground, snow). | Wear thick, insulating footwear and always use a mat or pad if sitting or lying down on the snow. |
| 4. Evaporation | Heat loss when sweat or moisture evaporates from your body. | Wear breathable, moisture-wicking inner layers. Avoid cotton. |
The Three Aurora Clothing Fundamentals
In the deep cold, you are standing still for long periods, which means your body generates little heat. Therefore, your cold protection strategy must be:
Layering + Windproofing + Water Resistance
General Layering Rules (The 3-Layer System)
To create effective air pockets for insulation, use the standard three-layer system:
| Layer | Purpose | Recommended Material | Avoid |
| 1. Base Layer | Wicks moisture (sweat) away from the skin. | Merino wool or synthetic fabrics (polyester). | Cotton (it traps moisture and makes you cold). |
| 2. Mid-Layer | Provides bulk insulation to trap heat. | Thick fleece, wool sweater, or a lightweight down jacket. | Too many thin layers that compress and eliminate air pockets. |
| 3. Outer Layer | Protection from wind and moisture/snow. | Windproof, water-resistant down parka or ski jacket. | Jackets that lack wind resistance. |
Specific Garment Breakdown (Head to Toe)
A. Upper Body (Torso)
- Base Layer: Long-sleeved thermal underwear (Merino wool is excellent).
- Mid-Layer: Heavy fleece or a wool sweater.
- Outer Layer: A large, down parka or ski jacket that is windproof and water-repellent. A hood is essential to block heat loss from the neck and head.
B. Lower Body (Legs)
- Base Layer: Heavy tights or thermal leggings (synthetic or Merino wool).
- Outer Layer: Ski pants or heavily insulated, windproof winter pants. (You may wear two pairs of regular pants underneath the outer layer, provided you maintain mobility.)
C. Feet (CRITICALLY IMPORTANT)
Feet are the first place to suffer from the cold (conduction).
- Socks: Wear a thin pair plus a thick pair of Merino wool socks. Never wear cotton socks.
- Boots: Insulated winter boots designed for extreme cold. Look for brands like Sorel or Kamik, some of which are rated for -30°C. Ensure they are roomy enough for double-layer socks.
D. Hands
Layering is key for dexterity and warmth.
- Inner Gloves: Thin, synthetic gloves, ideally touch-screen compatible for operating your phone or camera.
- Outer Gloves/Mittens: Thick, insulated, waterproof mittens or ski gloves. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves.
E. Head, Face, and Neck
- Hat: A thick knit hat that covers your ears entirely.
- Neck Protection: A thick neck gaiter or scarf that can be pulled up over your face/nose. Heat loss through the neck (where major arteries are) is significant.
Quick Tips from Experience
- Glasses: If you wear glasses, be mindful of metal frames, which can become painfully cold upon contact with your skin. Plastic frames are safer.
- Sitting/Kneeling: If you plan to lie down on the snow to photograph the Aurora, you must place a mat or pad beneath you to prevent immediate heat loss via conduction.
- Rental vs. Purchase: If you live somewhere you won’t use this gear again, consider renting a professional Arctic suit once you arrive in Finland (many tour companies and accommodations offer this).
Don’t let the cold ruin your once-in-a-lifetime experience. Prioritize function over fashion, and you will be able to enjoy the beautiful Northern Lights!
Complete Aurora Borealis Guide
References
- 『一生に一度は見たい絶景の楽しみ方 オーロラ・ウォッチングガイド』赤祖父俊一 監修 2018 誠文堂新光社
- 『オーロラ・ウォッチング オーロラに会いにいこう』上出洋介 監修 2005 誠文堂新光社
- 『オーロラ 世界で一番美しい光』Pál Brekke 2015 山と渓谷社
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