Survivalism as such as merged with pop culture. The survival tale has emerged as Urban Legend. Survivalism as enterainment has arrived.

Just look at the popularity of The Discovery Channel's "I Shouldn't Be Alive." Even my wife has gotten hooked into watching a few episodes.

The art, skill, luck, misfortune, and bad decisions involved in survival CAN rival the best soap operas out there.

-- Craig

Sounds like one for "Mythbusters"

My curiosity got the better of me. So, I e-mailed John Gookin, explained the context of my inquiry, and he was kind enough to reply today.

My question: "We're of course familiar the concept of heat loss through the head, but special mention of the eyes (and sunglasses) piqued our interest. Could you provide a brief explanation of the dynamics: Why the eyes? Why sunglasses?"

Mr. Gookin's reply: "I've spent quite a few nights out with no sleeping bag. Most were as a recon marine. Some were as a SAR person who got my patient flown out but ended up waiting a day for my own ride out. Others were as a mountaineer in bivouac mode.

When I just have what is in my daypack, or pockets, anything I can do to cover bare skin makes a detectable difference in localized skin warmth. It just feels more comfortable than without.

I don't think there is anything about the eyes in particular, other than being on the head which doesn't shunt blood flow like the extremities do.

BTW, I also often use my spare socks over my hands."

I'm guessing that sunglasses were specified only because more people are likely to carry sunglasses as opposed to just (prescription) glasses, and that non-tinted glasses would do just as well.

While researching, I found that John has an impressive résumé, including: active in the National Speleological Society and Wilderness Medicine Institute; extensive cave-related and general SAR experience, instructor and curriculum manager for the National Outdoor Leadership School, author/co-author of several related books, and time spent as a Recon Marine.

Dan