These days, largely thanks to the development of synthetic fabrics, polar clothing has become lighter and warmer. For polar clothing to work effectively it must:
Keep the body warm - heat loss from the body must be reduced to a minimum. Thermal underwear, loose fitting wind-proof outer garments, mittens and thermal boots are essential. Some materials are better for keeping the heat in. These materials - such as wool for thermal socks and mittens, are called thermal insulators because they do not let the heat pass through easily.
Lt. A. McEwan in Antarctic clothing - Ist layer
Not allow perspiration to build up - By wearing several lightweight layers it is easy to allow for good ventilation and good insulation, depending on
how cold it is. Polypropylene based fabrics takes moisture away from the body, stopping heat loss caused by sweat evaporation.
Lt. A. McEwan in Antarctic clothing - 2nd layer
Allow for the easy movement of the wearer and be comfortable - Generally Antarctic clothing looks "too big" when you first see it. This is because it has been designed to layer up so that enough insulation is provided to keep warm at -40ºC; the lowest temperature at which doctors have found people can work effectively outside.
Lt. A. McEwan in Antarctic clothing - 3rd layer
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Polar Clothing