Protective Clothing

Alaska is a land of extremes, even from May through September when most all viewing takes place. Bringing the appropriate clothing is essential to an enjoyable experience, and can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. Hypothermia has incapacitated or killed many more people than bears have.

A breathable windbreaker is important, as are breatheable rain pants and jacket. For added protection during a heavy rain or while walking through wet brush or grass, I also carry a fully water-proof poncho -- which can be draped over my body and pack, and perhaps over my camera, allowing me to shoot even during rain. Your rain jacket and/or poncho should have a hood to keep your neck dry.

Neoprene gloves will keep your hands warm, wet or dry.

The best kind of insulative jacket and pants are something like Polypro that stays warm even if wet.

It’s best to wear a hat with a short bill -- like that on a baseball cap, but half as long. A bill keeps your jacket hood from slipping down over your eyes.

The bill also keeps rain and sun off your face. A half-length bill doesn’t block your view directly ahead when you plow through brush while watching your footing.

Choice of foot gear is more complex. If you won’t be wading streams or tidal waters, you probably won’t need rubber boots. In that case, wear shoes that are reasonably waterproof. High-tops are the best. If you can’t do that, then slip on a plastic (e.g., shopping) bag between your socks and shoes. This will help keep your feet and socks from being soaked by rain or by walking through puddles. As each pair of socks becomes soaked with water or sweat, you’ll probably want to switch to a dry pair. If you’re wading, wear either hip or chest waders. If your tour guide doesn’t supply them, you’ll have to bring your own or do without.

For crossing streams or intertidal zones paved with slimy rocks, I put cleats on my wader boots. The Get-A-Grip brand, for example, has tiny metal cleats that provide good traction on most surfaces.