Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why is Northern Outfitters VÆTREX™ my best bet for cold weather protection?
VÆTREX™ is the most efficient insulating material currently on the market, proven by a six month long blind study conducted by the University of North Dakota School of Engineering. VÆTREX™ stands for Vapor Attenuating and Expelling, Thermal Retaining insulation for Extreme cold weather clothing. VÆTREX™ is soft, pliable, hydrophobic, hypo-allergenic, and very efficient at retaining body heat. Unlike other insulating materials, VÆTREX™ has permanent loft and will expel body moisture more efficiently than any other insulating material available. VÆTREX™ provides long-lasting insulation, giving you the ability to stay out longer in freezing temperatures.
- Do we ship internationally and how is it shipped?
Yes, we normally ship internationally using United States Postal Service Priority Mail. Additional options are available when entering orders on the website.
- How do
I know which system to purchase,
The Arctic system is designed for temperatures ranging from -10º F to -60º F. At these low temperatures, there should not be precipitation or a need for water-resistant materials, and therefore this system is not designed to be water-resistant, therefore giving you maximum water vapor wicking capability.
The EXP system is designed for temperatures ranging from 30º to -30º F. At these temperatures, precipitation is a possibility, and therefore we have designed this system to be water-resistant. We offer 2 choices of removable VÆTREX™ liners, our VÆTREX™ V0, rated to -10º F, and our VÆTREX™ V-30, rated to -30º F.
- How do
I clean my Northern Outfitters gear?
Machine wash warm on the gentle cycle using mild detergent. Can be tumbled dry on low, but it is preferable to let the garment air dry on hangers.
- What should I wear underneath my Northern Outfitters gear?
The VÆTREX™ technology is designed to be worn directly on the skin. It is designed to remove the moisture and condensation from the skin, leaving the skin dry, while insulating. If you feel uncomfortable with this, synthetic fabric can be worn underneath the garments. These fibers allow the system to continue to remove the moisture and insulate the body. No natural fibers should be worn underneath Northern Outfitters gear because they will interfere with the VÆTREX™ technology. Natural fibers include cotton, silk, and wool.
