Clothing

Clothing is the most important element of your winter kit list to get right. Each person will have to find their own layering system and the clothing you choose will be very personal. The more experience you gain in the mountains the more you will adjust your clothing to suit your needs. This is an area where investing some money in high quality equipment will pay off in the long run. TOP TIP: Buy bright colours, this will give you increased visibility to rescue teams in the event of an emergency and other members of your team in bad visibility. Also they look much better in pictures!

Gaiters

Whether or not you wear gaiters depends on your boots and expected conditions. Knee-length gaiters are best for boggy terrain or deep snow. Some boots have gaiters already built in.

Hardshell Waterproof Layers

A windproof and waterproof jacket with a hood, and overtrousers with side zips or salopettes. Choose breathable fabric without compromising waterproofing. For this layer I would recommend getting a tough wearing fabric which has maximum waterproof protection. GoreTex is the leading fabric used by many brands at the moment but there are others on the market. It is worth doing some research if you are going to buy a new waterproof. TOP TIP: Many mountain trousers and soft shell jackets will say they are ‘water resistant’ this will not be enough on their own you will also need the waterproof jacket and overtrousers.

Trousers

Use stretch softshell trousers or mountain leggings for versatile layering. Pair lighter trousers with heavier waterproofs or vice-versa. It is likely that we will be wearing waterproof trousers alongside these for large sections of each day.

N.B. Please do not wear jeans or cotton trousers as they stay cold and wet on the hill, which creates a safety risk.

Thermal Underwear

Long-sleeved base layer and leggings. Take two tops to switch out during the day if one becomes sweaty to avoid moisture against your skin. Merino wool is a good option for winter.

Warmth Layers

The best layering systems have several different tops which have a range of thicknesses to be able to adjust things quickly. Use a layering system with at least four warm layers: light mid-layer fleece a thicker fleece or softshell lightweight insulated jacket (synthetic works best in Scotland) A very thick insulating synthetic ‘Belay Jacket’ layer to use in emergencies and when conditions are really tough

Socks

One thick, high-quality pair of wool mountain socks is generally better than layering two pairs, which can reduce insulation and cause rubbing and blisters.

Gloves/Mitts

Keeping your hands warm is of the utmost importance. This is done in two ways, by keeping the core of your body warm with great layering and by having lots of good pairs of gloves. Carry at least four pairs of quality gloves: 

Thin insulating pair for walking in, milder days and under your main gloves

Midweight gloves for walking and moving quickly on the mountain 

Thick mountain gloves for slower paced sections of the day where you will be plunging your hands in snow 

Emergency thick mittens to put on when all else fails! Keep them dry and accessible near the top of your rucksack.

Hand Warmers - Carrying these can help you to maintain hand warmth and they are also great in an emergency to warm your core.

Headwear

Carry a variety: a thin liner or buff, warm beanie, and a balaclava. This helps you adapt to different conditions, especially when wearing a helmet.

Helmet

Lightweight climbing helmet fitted to properly protect the back of your head, forehead and sides.

Climbing Harness

Full sit harness with leg loops, belay loop and gear loops. Make sure the size of the harness can accommodate lots of layers and also that you can step into the harness with boots and crampons on.

Hardware

Hardware:  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 

• 3m length of 5mm cord to make prusik loops 

•  ATC style belay plate

Technical Climbing Ice Axes (With Ice climbing picks)

For winter climbing, two technical axes are required: one with an adze and one with a hammer. They should be suited for steeper ice with a curve in the shaft of the axe. Bucket handles will also help. These axes should have the ability to be used with clipper leashes and have grip rests. The axes and picks should be ‘T’ rated to take the force exerted on them during mixed climbing.

Clipper Leashes

These should attach to the bottoms of your axes and then to your harness to stop you dropping them.

C3 Crampons

For ice climbing, technical crampons are essential. Make sure they match your boots and include anti-balling plates. They must be at least ‘C2’ rated in stiffness. If you have a ‘C3’ rated crampon then the best designs have interchangeable front points to allow you to have mono or dual points.

Rucksack

A 45–55 litre lightweight rucksack with as few zips and buckles as possible is ideal. Use individual dry bags to keep kit dry.

Boots

Fully-stiffened B3 rated mountaineering boots are essential. It is best to go in store to try these on if you are buying them. Break them in well before coming on the course to avoid blisters. Avoid ‘flexible’ styles of B2 boots such as the La Sportiva Aequilibrium, these are not stiff enough and won’t take a crampon as well due to the heel protrusions.

Emergency Survival Bag or Blizzard Bag

Vital in the event of a delay or emergency. Allows you to shelter from wind and weather, potentially saving lives.

Headtorch LED

Carry two fully charged LED headtorches in case one fails. You'll often be starting and descending in the dark in winter. Make sure these torches have the batteries turned round or the lock function is on so they can’t switch on in your bag.

Drink Flasks

A thermos for hot drinks and a 1-litre water bottle with electrolytes helps maintain hydration and warmth.

Sunglasses/Goggles

Snow goggles (with clear lenses) and Category 4 sunglasses are essential for visibility in snow, fog, and sunshine.

Sun Hat and Sunscreen

We are optimistic for sunshine and blue skies!

Ski/Trekking Poles

Telescopic poles help in deep snow and on descents. Lightweight versions may save weight but can wear out faster.

Personal First Aid

Include items to manage cold-related issues such as hand warmers. Carry some blister packs and pain killers. Alongside any personal medicine you need. A full kit is carried by your Guide.

Sleep Mask and Earplugs

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.