Reindeer herding is probably the most important source of livelihood for the Nenets. While the forest Nenets living in the taiga keep only a small number of reindeer, the largely treeless northern tundra areas are ideal for long-distance migrations with larger herds. Unlike other groups in northeastern Siberia, the Nenets also use reindeer teams for transportation in the summer, with the sleds gliding over the slippery ground. Their sleds also differ from those used in other areas of Siberia. A drill is useful for repairs that often need to be carried out during migrations. However, one of the most important tools is a lasso made from animal skins with a special eyelet to form a tightening loop.

In addition to reindeer herding, fishing is also an important source of food for the Nenets, given the abundance of fish in the rivers and coastal waters. Special types of boats are used for this purpose. These include plank boats and boats made from hollowed-out tree trunks. Among the various items of equipment required when traveling in these boats, a special ladle is presented here. It is used to scoop water out of the boat that accumulates on the floor when there are waves or rain.

The clothing of the Nenets, which consists largely of reindeer skins, is well suited to the extreme climatic conditions, especially on the edge of the Arctic Ocean, where there is little protection from the icy winds in the treeless zone. Special attention is paid to warm clothing for children and different types of boots, which are usually made from the particularly warm skins of reindeer legs. Here, a distinction is made between boots for men or women and those suitable for wearing in dry or wet snow. Sturdy and warm gloves are particularly important, as outdoor work must be carried out even in extreme cold and strong winds.

For a long time, tools and household items were mainly made from natural materials available locally. With the development of trade relations with the Russians, parts of tools were initially replaced by metals and more recently by plastics. Two devices used in fishing and reindeer herding are presented here as examples. The hand-operated drill is particularly practical and indispensable because electricity is not available during nomadic migrations.