IMG Classic Climbs in the Alps Gear List
This equipment list is meant to help you compile your personal gear for a mountaineering expedition. Most items are required. Please consider each item carefully and be sure you understand the function of each piece of equipment before you substitute or delete items. Keep in mind that this list has been carefully compiled by George Dunn, the expedition organizer. Don't cut corners on the quality of your gear.
| [ ] | Boots: Rigid, insulated, lug-sole climbing boots. One of the new insulated, rigid soled leather/synthetic boots is best, plastic double boots are not recommended. |
| [ ] | Socks: At least 3 changes of heavy wool or wool/synthetic blend |
| [ ] | Gaiters: ankle length works well and looks more European (O.R. Flex-Tex gaiter). |
| [ ] | Long underwear: Synthetic or wool tops and bottoms |
| [ ] | Pants: Synthetic stretch climbing pants (Schoeller or other softshell fabric) |
| [ ] | Rain pants: Lightweight, Gore-Tex with ¾ or full length zippers to go on over boots and crampons |
| [ ] | Shirt: Expedition weight synthetic top |
| [ ] | Fleece or soft shell jacket |
| [ ] | Rain/wind shell: Waterproof/breathable jacket with hood |
| [ ] | Warm parka: Down or synthetic filled with hood — should not be expedition weight. A sewn through down sweater or synthetic insulated jacket will do. |
| [ ] | Hat: Wool or fleece |
| [ ] | Sun hat or baseball hat |
| [ ] | Gloves: 2 pair. Gore-Tex with synthetic insulation and a leather or grippy synthetic palm is optimal. One warm winter pair and one lighter pair suitable for spring skiing conditions. Both should be waterproof. |
| [ ] | Mittens: fleece or synthetic insulation with storm proof over shells; only for those with cold sensitivity |
| [ ] | Ice axe: 50-60 cm. |
| [ ] | Crampons: 12 point, reasonably sharp |
| [ ] | Climbing harness with gear loops and adjustable leg loops |
| [ ] | Carabiners: Three locking |
| [ ] | Belay device: Black Diamond ATC-XP, ATC-Guide or similar |
| [ ] | Climbing helmet, UIAA rated |
| [ ] | Headlamp: Bring extra set of batteries. |
| [ ] | Sunglasses: Very dark, wrap around or with side shields. |
| [ ] | Ski goggles: these are useful for windy summit days |
| [ ] | Water bottles: 2 one-quart, wide mouth, plastic bottles (a light thermos can also be a great option) |
| [ ] | Sun cream: And lip balm, SPF 15 or higher |
| [ ] | Pack: Internal frame pack with capacity of 30-35 liters (1800-2200 cubic inches) — NOT an expedition sized pack |
| [ ] | One or two collapsible 3-section ski or trekking poles |
| [ ] | First aid kit: Each individual should carry a small personal first aid kit to avoid depletion of the group kit. Consider the following items: aspirin or Tylenol; ibuprofen; antacid (Pepto Bismol, Rolaids, etc.); Band-Aids; athletic tape; moleskin or Band-Aid Blister Cushions. |
| [ ] | Hiking shorts |
| [ ] | T-shirts |
| [ ] | Lightweight toilet kit |
| [ ] | Lightweight silk/cotton/or synthetic sleeping bag liner for the huts
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| Optional items: | |
| [ ] | Small digital camera for the climbs |
| [ ] | Neck gaiter Or light balaclava |
| [ ] | Ear plugs: For those nights in the huts |