Time domain reflectometry (TDR) is evaluated as a field technique for measuring volumetric water content θ and bulk electrical conductivity σb in Arctic soils. Calibration measurements of θ and σb were carried out on three different slopes at a field site in Siberia (74°32′N; 98°35′E). Comparison of θ calculated from TDR using two different approaches and gravimetrically determined water contents shows a close correlation. TDR determined σb. applying theoretical relationships and a simple regression model, are compared with the electrical conductivity σw of soil solutions obtained with suction cups Best results for σw are obtained using the regression model, with highest precision when probe specific calibration is carried out. In this permafrost setting, TDR can be applied to obtain quantitative estimates of θ and σw in the active layer. The application of the regression model in different permafrost soils to infer σw requires additional calibration. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.