Kit List Cuillin Ridge
Hardwear
Helmet: (CAN BE BORROWED FROM US) Lightweight climbing helmet fitted to properly protect the back of your head, forehead and sides.
Climbing Harness: (CAN BE BORROWED FROM US) Full sit harness with leg loops, belay loop and gear loops.
Hardware: (CAN BE BORROWED FROM US) You can get this hardware online or in store, make sure that you buy it from a reputable supplier.
1 x long sewn or cord Sling (120cm circumference)
3 x screwgate Karabiners
2 x prusik loops for abseiling
ATC Style Belay plate
Rucksack
35 - 45 litre capacity. Lightweight and comfortable. Plus waterproof/dry-bag liner – Scotland does get the odd wet and rainy day!
Boots/ Approach Shoes
You need to make sure that your boots or approach shoes are nice and comfortable to wear all day. You will be best to go into the store and try them on.
3 season/B1-rated Boots with semi-stiffened soles and ankle support.
Climbers’ Approach shoes with stiffened edges are excellent for scrambling
Shell Garments
Lightweight wind and waterproof jacket.
Lightweight waterproof overtrousers.
Inner Clothing
Lightweight Fleece or Softshell Jacket.
Mid-layer fleece.
Thin down/synthetic insulation layer.
Long-sleeved thermal top and leggings.
Lightweight mountain trousers, leggings or tracksuit bottoms
Good quality mountain socks.
Shorts and t-shirt.
N.B. Please do not wear jeans or cotton trousers as they stay cold and wet on the hill, which creates a safety risk.
Gloves
Warm waterproof gloves - Not thick winter gloves but a thinner summer pair
Durable grip gloves for climbing/abseiling (tight-fitting, leather-palmed gloves or plastic-coated hardware gloves are effective for scrambling and are cheap in hardware stores).
Warm Hat/Balaclava
It can get cold even in Spring & Summer, it is best to prepare for all weather conditions in Scotland!
Headtorch LED
It is important to prepare for every eventuality. In some cases, we may be rising early or scrambling into the night and therefore it is important to have the right torch to allow you to navigate on the mountain. I now take two head torches, both fully charged, as this means if one runs out or malfunctions, you are not fiddling around with batteries and cold hands in the dark.
Drink Flasks
At least 2 litres of water bottles. Soft flasks are often a great choice as they take up less space in your bag. There is limited access to water on the ridge so if you drink more make sure you have more capacity. We will fill up at the last stream before going up onto the ridge and then once more from a spring near the bivi site.
Sunglasses, Sun Hat and Sunscreen
We are optimistic for sunshine and blue skies!
Midge/Mosquito Spray and Hood
I would recommend “Smidge’ or ‘Jungle Formula” for the spray and a midge hood incase they are out in force.
Personal Items / First Aid
First Aid Kit: For blisters and minor cuts and any personal medication and painkillers, a full kit is carried by your Guide.
Toilet Paper: Your guide will explain the most responsible options for going to the toilet in the mountains, ensuring that we minimise our impact on the environment and leave the area as we found it.
Sleep Mask and Earplugs: Sleep is so important for recovery and enjoyment of the course, you should prioritise this. With a new sleep environment for you, it is advisable to take these to aid sleep.
Bivouac Sleeping Equipment
CAMPMAT/ THERMAREST: A three quarter length lightweight inflatable camping mat is recommended and an inflatable pillow if you want some luxury!
SLEEPING BAG ( 2- 3 SEASON ) Try to make this as lightweight as possible and often synthetic works well in case it gets damp.
BIVVY BAG: This should be lightweight and large enough to get your boots and some kit alongside you to keep everything dry.
Camp Cutlery & Mug
You will just need one lightweight spoon or a spork and a lightweight camp mug
Freeze Dried Meals
These meals should be the type where you just need to add water and serve. They are sold in sealed packets and are very lightweight. It is recommended that you have an evening meal (or two if you need more food) and a breakfast. This is alongside all of your food for the days on the ridge. Take more food than you think you will need as you will be burning enormous amounts of calories, make the food weight to calorie efficient!
Bivvy Bag
This should be lightweight and large enough to get your boots and some kit alongside you to keep everything dry.
This kit list is not exhaustive. You may have personal items that you use regularly and would like to bring along to make your time in the mountains more comfortable. You are responsible for ensuring you have adequate equipment and clothing at the start of the course. Depending on your own needs and preferences, you may require items beyond those listed — for example, extra layers or thicker gloves if you tend to feel the cold or walking poles if you suffer from bad knees or need extra support on rough ground. This kit list covers only the equipment and clothing needed for the mountain activities on the course, and does not include personal items or general clothing you may need for your trip. Only purchase technical equipment that is CE or UIAA accredited. If you are bringing your own technical equipment, your guide will check it before heading out. If any items are deemed unsafe, unsuitable, or out of date, you may be asked not to use them. In such cases, you may need to replace the item locally or, where possible, borrow a suitable alternative from us. Every gram counts when carrying equipment in the mountains, so please think carefully about how to keep your packed bag as light as possible without compromising safety or essential comfort. If you have any questions about your kit, or would like advice on specific brands or models, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.