Alpine Kit List

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: Plastic are ok but are a bit clumpy for rock climbing and scrambling. 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 often 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 with 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 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.
• 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 & spare 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 Wild Country ropeman (MK1) 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 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 45 - 50 litres
  • Water bottle at least 1 litre
  • 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