Lt. Robert Archer of Discovery led the 12-man sledge Westward Ho to determine the continuity of Grant Land, as well as deciding whether Lady Franklin Strait is a bay, fiord or channel. He was accompanied part of the way by Sub-Lt. Conybeare with the eight-man sledge Endeavour.

Traditional sledging clothing consisted of a duffle coat (with duck overalls) and trousers, the latter reaching about 12 inches below the knee, a woollen cap with flaps, and snow goggles. The moccasined feet were initially wrapped in blanket strips, over which were thick woollen hose reaching above the knee and over the trousers.