Situations: Generally a full day in the mountains with 2-4 hour approaches, conditions variable, with the weather ranging from harsh and wet to pleasant and sunny.
Clothing: Items that are breathable, allow flexibility, resist wind and water, and based on a layering system.
** Some of the clothing and gear below are season dependent especially in regard to the amount of snow and ice encountered on the approach and climb. Please confer with your guide about current conditions and/or if you have any questions.
Clothing
- Socks – Wool or synthetic sock with or without a liner sock.
- Shorts – Weather permitting. Nylon, fast drying with longer inseam recommended.
- Shirt – Lightweight zip turtleneck or crew made from Capilene or polypropylene. Cotton t-shirt for valley days.
- Pants –Nylon or synthetic; abrasion and wind resistant. Schoeller fabric pants are ideal.
- Mid Layer – Fleece or wool sweater or lightweight jacket – 100 weight fleece (ie – Patagonia R1)
- Shell Gear – Gore-Tex or other waterproof/breathable - as lightweight as possible.
- Approach Shoes – Low or mid-cut with stout lug-style sole. Early season may require Mtn Boots.
- Gaiters – Low or light-weight gaitor for approach is useful in snow or loose scree. Optional later in the summer.
- Baseball/Sun Hat – Something comfortable with a brim (may be worn under a helmet).
- Warm Hat and Gloves - Recommended on most climbs. Even in warm, summer temperatures belays can be shady and cool.
Personal Items
- Insect repellent – Some times the bugs are bad, most times they aren’t. (optional)
- Sunglasses – Must be durable and 100% UV protective . Retention cords are handy.
- Sunscreen – With a minimum protection factor of 20 (SPF) minimum.
- Lip Protection - With a minimum protection factor of 18 (SPF) minimum.
- Day Pack – Adequate size for all the above plus food and water, etc. Sternum strap advised.
- Water Bottles – Two 1 quart bottles or a camelback type hydration system. We always recommend taking at least 1 Nalgene, since Camelbacks often freeze or leak.
- Food – Enough food to keep you going for a full day (8-10 hours). Don’t skimp here!
- Climbing Shoes – Smooth soled, fitted, in good repair, sized to be comfortable for all day. NCMG has climbing shoes available for rent.
- Harness - NCMG will provide harnesses if you do not own one. Please let the office know if you plan to use a NCMG harness.
- Helmet - NCMG will provide a helmet if you do not own one. This helmet needs to climbing specific. Please let the office know if you need to borrow this gear.
- Belay Device and Locking Carabiner - NCMG can provide a belay device and locking carabiner if you do not own one. Please let the office know if you need to borrow this gear.
- Ski Poles- For use on approaches, we have found these to be invaluable tools.
NOTE – Early season trips may also require the use of an ice axe and crampons.
We provide
Helmets, harnesses, ropes, all technical and group gear
Recommended
Camera – In a durable and handy carrying case
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