Frequently Asked Questions
Your top questions answered by our wilderness experts.
Orders & Shipping
What are your shipping options within Canada?
We offer Standard (3-7 business days) and Express (1-3 business days) shipping across Canada. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your location and order size.
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, we only ship to addresses within Canada. We are working on expanding our shipping options to the United States and other international destinations.
What is your return policy?
We accept returns of unused, unworn items with original tags attached within 30 days of delivery. For safety reasons, climbing gear and food items cannot be returned.
Are your products covered by a warranty?
Yes, all Boreal Outfitters branded products are covered by our lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects.
Cold-Weather Gear Expertise
What is the difference between Down and Synthetic Insulation?
Down insulation provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio and compresses very well, making it ideal for extremely cold, dry conditions. However, it loses its insulating properties when wet. Synthetic insulation retains its warmth even when wet and is typically more affordable, though it is heavier and bulkier than down. For wet coastal winters, synthetic is best. For dry, freezing Rockies temperatures, down is preferred.
How do sleeping bag temperature ratings work?
Temperature ratings (e.g., -10°C / 14°F) indicate the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep an "average" sleeper warm. There are often "Comfort" and "Survival" ratings. We always recommend choosing a bag rated 5 to 10 degrees colder than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter.
What is fill power in down jackets?
Fill power measures the loft or "fluffiness" of the down. Higher fill power (e.g., 800 or 900) means the down takes up more space and traps more air, offering more warmth for less weight. Lower fill power (e.g., 550 or 600) is still warm but will be heavier and bulkier.
How should I layer for temperatures below -20°C?
Start with a heavy-weight merino wool base layer to wick moisture. Add a thick fleece or active-insulation mid-layer. Follow this with a high-loft down jacket (your primary insulator), and top it off with a windproof, waterproof hardshell to block biting winds. Don't forget insulated pants, a balaclava, and heavy mittens rather than gloves.
How do I care for technical cold-weather apparel?
Proper care is essential. Wash waterproof items with a technical fabric wash and reapply DWR periodically. For down jackets and sleeping bags, wash rarely using a specialized down wash, and dry thoroughly on low heat with tennis balls to restore the loft.
Are your boots suitable for snowshoeing and crampons?
Our heavy-duty winter mountaineering boots feature rigid soles and heel welts, making them fully compatible with semi-automatic and automatic crampons. Our standard insulated hiking boots are great for snowshoeing but only compatible with strap-on crampons or microspikes.