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.

• 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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