Essential gear for snow routes when mountaineering
When heading into the high mountains, especially snow-covered or glaciated terrain, choosing the right gear and remembering to bring the essentials is a key part of a successful climb. The following checklist, also available for download, will provide you with just the right peace of mind when planning for your next route.
June 29 2016
Mountaineering
- Daypack (30 or 40 liters)
- 1 classic mountaineering ice axe
- 1 single rope (minimum 50 meters)
- 1 harness
- 1 ice screw
- 1 v-thread hook
- A Helmet
- A belay device
- Crampons that are properly adjusted and equipped with anti-balling plates
- Mountaineering boots that are warm, waterproof, and crampon-compatible
- Gaiters
- 2 double-length slings and 2 locking carabiners
- A crevasse rescue kit
- Navigation tools: map, altimeter, compass, GPS
- 1 headlamp with fresh batteries
- 1 survival blanket
- 1 pair of warm socks + 1 spare pair
- 1 pair of warm wind-resistant pants
- Technical base layers
- Fleece sweater
- A windbreaker and water resistant jacket (Gore Tex shell)
- Windbreaker and water resistant overpants (Gore Tex shell)
- A warm parka
- 1 pair of lightweight gloves + 1 pair of warm gloves
- 1 beanie or headband
- 1 pair of category 4 sunglasses + 1 spare pair
- High-protection sunscreen
- 1 first aid kit
- Snacks + high-calorie "savory" food
- 1 water bottle
- 1 knife
- ...
Download the basic gear list [pdf - 226 Kb]
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