Ski Boots on the Ground

Outside’s David Wolman spends some time with Finnish soldiers on skis along their country’s 833 mile border with Russia. Red Dawn in Lapland: “For this drill, we had to ski down a small ramp and into the water, then get our gear and ourselves out without dying. I know what you’re thinking: polar bear plunges are invigorating! Maybe so. But dunking in nearly freezing water when you’re dehydrated and already cold, clothed in ski gear and thick rubber boots, and without a warm sauna to hop into afterward, is not beneficial. It’s potentially fatal.” (I actually wasn’t thinking, polar bear plunges are invigorating!. I was thinking, never, ever go outside. Ever.)