Alpine Kit List

I have started from the feet up then gone onto Hardwear. The secret to alpine clothing is versatility as a standard day starts pre- dawn in the cold and finishes in the heat of the day.

I can lend you anything with a *

  • Rock Boots: Depends on the planned week. (We have a limited selection of sizes available for
    loan)
  • Mountain Boots:Stiff leather boots are better all round. La Sportiva Nepal Extremes style boots are great. Make sure they have been used a lot and are comfortable before the trip. The boots should be B2 rated as a minimum but B3 is better.
  • Gaiters: I prefer short ones for Alpine summer use as you are rarely in deep snow.
  • Trousers: Soft shell type stretch fabric is best. Fleece is too warm. No cotton.
  • Waterproof over trousers: I go light, anything made from Paclite is great but heavier stuff will
    work just as well.
  • Thermal top: Light colours are best as they reflect the sun.
  • A soft shell jacket plus an extra insulating layer like a Haglofs Barrier vest or jacket is excellent with a waterproof outer layer in the sac is perfect for the summer. A light down jacket is a good idea for high mountain trips like Mont Blanc at the beginning and end of the season.
  • Waterproof top: Again as light as possible Gore Paclite is the best on the market but any breathable waterproof top will work. The Haglofs LIM Jacket is fantastic.
  • Gloves: A thick pair and a thin pair. Its worth having mitts for Mont Blanc and high mountain trips.
  • Hat: A sun hat and a warm hat that will fit under a helmet.
  • Helmet*
  • Head torch with a new battery
  • Sunglasses
  • Ski Goggles
  • Sun cream Factor 30+ and Factor 30+ lipsalve.
  • Hardware
    • Crampons with anti-ball plates -these are essential, as the snow gets soft and sticky in the
      heat of the day*
    • Harness*
    • Prussic loops one short (fore arm length) one longer (A Petzl Micro traction is brilliant is also
      useful)
    • Belay plate*, crab, a couple of slings and crabs are also useful.
    • Ice Tools*, A classic Axe is great for most itineraries 55-60cm if you require technical tools we can lend
      them to you. If you are considering rocky routes with snow approaches a light axe like the Grivel
      Air Tech Racing saves weight when climbing I can lend these.
    • Rucksack 35-40 litres should do.
    • Water bottle at least 1 litre I bring a flask as well in June and Sept.
    • Ski poles can be useful for walk in to huts
  • Other Essentials
    • Passport
    • Insurance Bring the documents or a copy with you.
    • Sheet sleeping bag a requirement in most huts for hygiene purposes