LA: It’s as if women didn’t live and work in similar places.
BB: The men’s shirts were not even called unisex. They were only men’s.
LA: It was not even a thought. Women don’t go outside.
BB: No.
LA: Women don’t.
BB: It’s been bothering me for a while, so I wrote last year to Dovetail, one of my favorite clothing companies that makes great clothes for women. I wrote a pitch, saying “Here are the reasons why there are no good women’s jackets.” Here’s why they should.” The company replied the next day or even that same day and said, “Yeah! Call us now.”
I designed a parka for them, which will be released this fall. It is like an outershell but made from wax canvas. The parka has large pockets and all the features I’ve been looking forward to. It was fascinating to see the behind-the-scenes process. It’s not super-warm. You can wear it over layers in cold temperatures, but also in warmer temperatures, up to about 40 degrees. It’s called the Braverman Parka and is set to be released in the fall. If you’re a woman looking for a parka I’d recommend this one.
LA: It is a big incentive for me to come back to Alaska.
BB: While I have this little platform, I will make a quick plug. The down skirt, which is also one of the most warm things that you can purchase, is the best thing you can wear.
LA: Fascinating.
BB: It’s like wearing a mitten on your legs, because they can exchange warmth. I wore a full-length down skirt for my Iditarod ceremony start.
LA: What is underneath the down skirt worn?
BB: You can wear it over leggings, jeans, or even long underwear. It’s like the best way to stay warm.
LA: Genius.
BB: Just a suggestion, in case you start to get cold. It is highly recommended to stay out longer and still be comfortable.
LA: Where should people go on the Internet if they want to read about your adventures, your stories, or follow your dogs’ stories? There are several places.
BB: In the last few months, I have been posting more frequently on Instagram. I also have adult books and a children’s book that is coming out. You can also invite me to come and speak about sled-dogs and teamwork. I give a number of keynote speeches where I show a variety of photos of dogs and share stories about adventures. This is a great way to have fun. I hope that people will be able to join me on the trail.
LA: Women Who Travel is grateful for your support. You can find me at @lalehannah on Instagram. Pran bandi is our engineer, and a special thank you to Jake Lummus who provided engineering support. Amar Lal, at Macrosound, mixes our show. Jude Kampfner is our producer, Stephanie Kariuki, our executive producer, and Chris Bannon is head of Condé Nast Global Audio.
