Gear
Reindeer hide
A natural product with good insulating power (R-value around 4). Best as a supplement to a foam mat — particularly in a lean-to in front of a campfire in winter.
Reindeer hide is a natural product with good insulating power. The effect comes from the reindeer’s hollow hairs — which are stiff and hold the insulation up. The R-value is around 4, and the hide is wide enough, but often a little short in length. That is why it works best as a supplement to a foam mat.
A reindeer hide is a good choice when you are going to sleep in a lean-to in front of a campfire in winter.
Dried or tanned?
- Dried is the most durable for outdoor use — but can smell more of the animal.
- Tanned does not smell, but sheds its hairs easily and therefore has a short lifespan.
A dried reindeer hide is not especially heavy, but it is large and impractical in packed size — best on the pulk in winter.