General Information

In the summer months, the days generally start very cold and warm up during the morning to become hot in the afternoon. It is therefore essential that you have 2-3 thin layers that you are able to put on/take off as the conditions change. Thin layers also allow better movement as opposed to one layer of bulky clothing.

This list gives you an idea of the clothing and equipment you will need for one of our alpine mountaineering courses. If you are uncertain or need further information, please contact us.

Clothing

• Base Layer Top and Bottoms - 1-2 thermal tops and 1 pair longjohns
• 2 midweight fleece tops or 1 fleece and 1 lightweight duvet jacket 
• Lightweight trekking trousers 
• Walking shorts 
• Weather Layer Top - Gore-Tex or other waterproof breathable jacket.
• Weather Layer Pants - Gore-Tex or other waterproof breathable pants.
• Sun hat and warm hat 
• Light, thin gloves 
• Insulated gloves or mitts
• Gaiters - Good fitting pair of ankle gaiters to keep socks and boots dry
• Socks3-4 pairs

Boots

There are 3 grades of boots for alpine trekking and mountaineering: B1, B2 and B3.

• B1 boots are soft, lightweight and flexible boots that are suitable only for hillwalking or easy trekking.
 
• B2 boots are semi-rigid boots that are the best option for most summer alpine mountaineering courses. There are leather and plastic/composite options. B2 boots are compatible with C1 and C2 crampons. Leather boots tend to be more comfortable and breathable whereas plastic/composite boots are warmer and more waterproof.
• B3 boots are fully-rigid ice-climbing and mountaineering boot that compatible wiht C1, C2 and C3 crampons. These should only be considered for ice-climbing or mountaineering trips to the Greater Ranges.

Key features of a good alpine mountaineering boot include vibram soles, reversed leather uppers (which protects the best site of the leather from scuffing and abrasion and improves durability and water resistance) and ankle flex and a higher cut which give control, mobility and support.

Boots can be hired in resort but to avoid discomfort we do strongly recommend that you have your own pair which need to be well worn-in prior to your trip.

Alpine huts supply hut slippers so that you don't need to take any other footwear apart from your boots. Boots are not allowed in the dining room or dormitories and must be left in the foyer.

Technical

These items are essential for all alpine mountaineering courses and on most alpine trekking trips. All items can be hired from Mountain Tracks or from sport shops in the Alps.

• Climbing helmet 
• Ice Axe - General mountaineering / alpine pick
• Boot crampons - with anti-balling plates.
• Climbing Harness
•  2 Prussik loops, sling and karabiners

Miscellaneous

• Pack - A simple and lightweight pack with a capacity of between 35-45 litres is recommended.
• Lightweight sheet sleeping bag/silk liner – now compulsory in most alpine mountain huts
• Water bottle or Thermos
• Head lamp with batteries
• Penknife
• Personal first Aid Kit - For blisters, sunburn and headaches (Note: Guides will have comprehensive first aid kits and are qualified in mountain first aid)
• Whistle
• Sun Glasses - minimum category 3
• Ski Goggles
• Sunscreen and Lip Protection
• Ear Plugs - For noisy huts!!
• Camera
• Duffel bag - for gear not required on trek. Will be left at first hotel and collected on return
• Passport
• Money - You will need some cash for food and drinks. There are some ATMs and most hotels, shops and restaurants will accept credit cards, but most huts still accept cash only.
• Toiletries
• Alpine club card - If you're a member.