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What equipment will I need for winter climbing?

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What equipment will I need for winter climbing?

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In this article, we outline all of the equipment recommended for a winter climbing route in Scotland which could take over five hours. And furthermore, we anticipate that all the equipment we recommend should fit into a 35-40 litre rucksack.

Clothing

When walking in winter, it is essential to layer up. In winter conditions, you will probably require around four layers on your upper body. Which consist of the base, mid, soft shell and outer shell. Contrastingly, you will need a similar number of layers on your lower body. However, we anticipate that you probably won’t require more than three.

Base layer

For the base layer, you should try and use either a tight fitting synthetic or merino. These types of fabrics are effective at moving moisture away from the body. Which furthermore, helps to regulate body temperature. In contrast, try not to wear cotton clothing. This only retains moisture which subsequently lowers body temperature after you have stopped climbing. Ultimately, we recommend merino wool tops. Although they are expensive, they are highly effective at not retaining body odour. In contrast to synthetic tops which normally do this.

Mid layer

This layer provides insulation and helps to retain your body heat. When you start to sweat, this layer should be breathable. And upon cooling down, will help you to keep both warm and dry. For mid layers, try and avoid materials such as cotton. Ultimately, fleece is probably the best material to go for. For a mid layer, aim to wear two to three light mid layers. This is because they perform better than one heavy mid layer.

Soft shell

As well as providing an extra layer above your fleece, a softshell jacket provides a windproof and breathable layer. Although they may not necessarily be waterproof, they are certainly able to resist water. And furthermore, are ideal for conditions which are not overly wet or windy. If you are expecting to complete expeditions in very dry or cold conditions, a synthetic or down jacket could be a very good choice. This is because they are effective insulators. Ideally suited to activities of a low intensity. For example, sitting down and taking in views.

Outer layer

A good outer layer is essential for protecting you from the elements. Particularly, wind, rain and snow. Additionally, it ensures the effective escape of moisture from base and mid layers which subsequently helps you to keep warm. The outer layer can be expensive. So as such, make sure to buy something with good features. For example, tapered seams, weather protection zips, wire hood and something made of a breathable fabric.

Boots

There are generally four categories of boots. Which include:

Trail shoes

Hiking boots

Backpacking boots

Mountaineering boots

During the winter, the main type of boot you can expect to be wearing is mountaineering boots. Typically, they are made from materials such as plastic, leather or fabric. However, they can be a combination of multiple materials.

Walking boots are classified into four categories:

B0. Boots not designed for the winter season

B1. These boots can be worn in any season. They have a stiff midsole which support crampons. And have a firm upper section. These boots do not support the use of mountaineering crampons because they do not have toe or heel lips. Because of this, they are only compatible with C1 crampons. Which we outline in more detail below.

B2. This type of boot has a stiff midsole and high ankle. As well as a thick upper. These types of boots are suitable for general winter climbing. As well as climbing over glacial terrain and mid-grade climbing. These types of boots support crampons because they have heel-clip bindings. However, they do support C1 crampons.

B3. Typically, these types of boots are made from rigid plastic. And can support heel clips and wire toe balls. These types of boots are fairly versatile. Suitable for climbing over hard ice, glacial terrain and mountaineering at high altitude. However, they are not suitable for Scottish winter conditions. This is because the sole is stiff. And subsequently, this can make walking on low level terrain or long approaches fairly tiresome

Ice-Axe

There is a huge selection of ice-axes available on the market. And as such, they come in many different sizes and shapes. Furthermore, ice-axes are generally split into three categories. Walking, mountaineering and technical. The general anatomy of an ice-axe is a shaft with head at the top and a spike at the bottom. The axe typically has a pick at one end and a scoop on the other (also known as an adze).

Walking ice-axe

This type of axe is typically maximum 75 cm long and features a straight shaft and basic adze. Better quality axes of this type may feature a rubber grip. These types of axes typically feature a safety feature in the form of a rubber stopper or leash. Intended to prevent an accident from the spike. However, we do encourage you to remove this.

Mountaineering ice axe

These types of ice axes are normally shorter than the one listed above. Although they mainly have a straight shaft, some do feature a slight bend. Which makes it easier to make steps in the ice. These types of axes are great to use with ropes and hooks because they feature a strong and curved shaft.

Technical ice axe

These are normally a short style of axe. And feature a curved shaft which make them ideally suited to climbing. These types of axe come in a pair. Once has an adze and the other has a hammer. It is important to note that this type of axe is not suitable for walking and hiking in winter conditions.

Crampons

Crampons are normally classified into three categories:

C1. These types of crampons are flexible and feature between 8-1 0 points. They also feature a strap. But may have a combination of a strap and cradle. They are perfect for general winter climbing. This is because they are compatible with most types of walking boots.

C2. This type of crampon will feature a cradle/heel-clip attachment. However, they can only be used with B2 or B3 walking boots. They are perfect for walking over steep terrain. Or mid-grade climbing or scrambling. However, they can also be used on shallow terrain.

C3. These types of crampons are rigid and are ideal for winter climbing. However, they can only be used alongside B3 walking boots. However, they are not recommended for general winter climbing. This is because they are quite heavy and stiff. This type of crampon will come with anti-balling plates. These are flexible devices which are placed underneath crampons which make sure that snow doesn’t build up. It is important that before purchasing crampons, ensure that they fit properly. For individuals that have particularly large feet, you may need to purchase something called an extender-bar. Finally, make sure that you are familiar with how to put your crampons on before heading to your walk.

What other equipment might I need?

Gaiters

Gaiters have a number of useful features. They help to protect from water and snow. They also provide some insulation and reduce the likelihood of sagging of your crampons.

Gloves

When choosing gloves, try and select a pair that are not only long enough to cover wrists, but are also waterproof. For very cold conditions, you may want to think about buying mitts. They are warmer than gloves. However, this does come at a price because they reduce movement in your hand.

Hat

In winter conditions, a hat is essential for reducing heat loss through your head. There are many similar articles. Such as balaclavas, neck-gaiters, scarfs and buffs which can help retain your body heat.

Other equipment

There is a range of equipment which you should also consider bringing with you when doing winter climbing:

Goggles

Sunglasses

Head torch and spare batteries

Sun cream

Emergency bag

Flask containing hot drink

Poles

Additionally, if you are walking in a group, you may want to bring the following items:

Shelter

Mountaineering shovel

Avalanche transceiver

Summary

If you are looking for winter activities, why not look at the range of outdoor activities available through North East OA?