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Think a Suit Built for the Polar Regions Is Too Warm for Other Cold or Temperate Waters? Think Again...


The White Glacier Arctic 10+ was engineered to deliver true multi-day thermal protection in the harshest polar conditions—sub-zero air temperatures, near-freezing water, high wind chill, and prolonged Maximum Expected Time of Rescue (METR) scenarios, as highlighted by the U.S. Coast Guard's December 2023 Arctic Search & Rescue simulation study. That study showed METR frequently exceeding the Polar Code's 5-day minimum in remote, ice-bound, or high-victim cases (e.g., research vessel beset in ice near the North Pole or icebreaker abandonment north of the ice extent).


But superior insulation doesn't mean the Arctic 10+ is only suitable for extreme polar environments. In fact, its innovative, user-centric design makes it surprisingly comfortable and adaptable across a wide spectrum of cold-water operations—from North Sea offshore platforms and Newfoundland fishing grounds to Baltic Sea routes, North Atlantic trawling, and sub-polar expedition cruising (water temperatures typically 0–15°C).


Here's why the Arctic 10+ isn't "overkill" for non-polar cold waters—it's intelligently versatile and often the smarter, more reliable choice.


Built-in Temperature Control and Real-World Adaptability

The suit's industry-leading CLO value of 4.87 provides outstanding passive thermal protection without relying on batteries, chemicals, or one-time-use heaters that can fail, expire, or run out.


What truly sets it apart is thoughtful engineering for practical use in varying conditions:

  • Removable arms and internal arm withdrawal system Users can pull arms inside the suit for maximum warmth during passive survival phases, or quickly extend them for dexterity tasks like signaling, eating, drinking, handling gear, or first aid—preventing overheating when conditions moderate or during active movement.

  • Patented splash tent / personal habitat feature This creates a sheltered micro-environment for extended survival, but the suit can be partially opened or fully vented for airflow when full enclosure isn't necessary (e.g., short immersions, on-deck waiting, or rough but non-freezing seas).

  • Quick-don design (<60 seconds) and modular fit The suit's construction allows ventilation adjustments and prevents excessive bulk or sweat buildup in 5–10°C waters common outside polar zones.


These features let the Arctic 10+ adapt seamlessly: seal it completely for life-or-death polar abandonment, or open/vent it for comfort and functionality in everyday cold-water risks. No more trade-offs between "too hot" in milder conditions and "not warm enough" when the situation turns serious.


Proven Comfort Across Environments

In rigorous polar testing (e.g., Trondheim, Norway), subjects remained comfortable with no cold sensation for 6+ hours in near-freezing water—yet the same passive, high-CLO system performs reliably without causing overheating in higher water temperatures (5–15°C) common in commercial fisheries, offshore energy, or expedition routes.

For users in non-polar cold waters, the Arctic 10+ delivers:

  • Extended survival time far beyond standard neoprene suits, which lose insulation rapidly with water ingress and wave action.

  • Buoyancy up to ~100 lbs with trapped air, turning the suit into a personal life raft when fully donned—critical for rough seas where self-rescue or group raft boarding is needed.

  • Ventilation and task options that keep you dry, warm, and functional without discomfort, even during long shifts or drills.


See the Arctic 10+ in action during cold-water immersion testing with splash tent deployed for extended habitat mode:



Operators floating securely, demonstrating buoyancy, stability, and adaptability in choppy conditions:



Removable arms and open features in use for comfort and dexterity during moderate cold-water drills or North Sea-style operations:


And the suit being worn in rough, non-polar cold seas—practical and comfortable for real-world fishing or offshore use:


The Bottom Line

The Arctic 10+ isn't "too much" for temperate or cold non-polar waters—it's the right amount of protection when you need it, with smart features that prevent discomfort when conditions allow. One suit covers the full spectrum: extreme polar risks and everyday cold-water hazards. This reduces fleet inventory complexity, simplifies training, and eliminates the risk of under-equipping for unexpected delays or worsening weather.


Whether you're facing ice-bound rescues near the Arctic or rough seas off Newfoundland, the Arctic 10+ gives you dependable, adaptable performance without compromise.


Ready to experience true versatility in cold-water survival? Contact Diego Jacobson, CEO White Glacier djacobson@whiteglacier.com | +1 939-430-1264 www.whiteglacier.com

 
 
 

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