Critical Temperature in Lapps

¹ From the Institutes of Zoophysiology and of Experimental Medical Research, University of Oslo, and the Institute of Aviation Medicine, Royal Norwegian Air Force, Oslo, Norway

Skin and critical temperatures of nomadic Lapps, living in the northern part of Norway, have been determined in the winter. Skin temperature measurements taken under the clothing gave values well inside those which correspond to our own comfort, even under very cold outside conditions, indicating that the microclimate underneath the Lapps' fur winter clothing is almost tropical. Studies on the metabolic cost of maintaining the rectal temperature constant, while sitting naked and pedaling an ergometer wheel in a cold room, showed that the critical temperature in Lapps is about 27°C, which is the same as for naked man living in a temperate climate. These data indicate that the Lapps are not normally subjected to cold stress, and that they do not have any greater physiological insulation than man living in a temperate climate.