This kit list explains a few bits and pieces to try and make it easier, and also lists basically everything you need, even the obvious stuff!
Also listed are a bunch of useful websites at the bottom that are good for buying any kit you might need on the cheap. If you need any club kit that is not climbing related (i.e. sleeping bags, roll mats) then you must let a committee member know ASAP so they can sort it out.
Rock Climbing
- Harness
- Rock shoes
- Helmet (can be supplied by club)
- Suitable clothing.
- Quickdraws
- Screwgates
- Snapgates
- Slings
- Ropes
- Maillons
- Small amount of trad kit (more for the high mountains)
- Boulder mats
The club also has guidebooks for the area but if you wish to buy your own you can either get one online in advance or buy them out there. If you are bringing any of your own personal hardwear (e.g. quickdraws, karabiners) please let us know beforehand as it helps with planning.
Mountaineering Kit
This is the bit you need more specialist kit for. You don’t have to go out and buy loads of new stuff, there’s probably a way round it but if you want some of your own stuff go ahead! I’m going to try and give some basic advice here but if you want some more info please ask me or Helena as we both work for Ellis Brigham in Covent Garden and can help you out with any problems.
- Base layers - These can vary from cheapish to expensive – the main difference is that the cheaper ones will probably be made from man-made fibres and will start to smell quicker. If you can deal with the smell then go cheaper!
- Trousers - The most important thing about these is that they are easy to move in. They also need to be relatively warm as you will be getting up early in the morning and playing in the snow! However if you have base layers underneath you’ll be fine. You can buy specialist trousers but in the past people have used skiing pants, or a reasonably tough pair of walking trousers will be fine.
- Jacket – Again you’re going to need this to be relatively warm. My suggestions is go for a couple of lightweight jackets (e.g a fleece with a tougher jacket over the top) as you have more options if you get hot or cold.
- Waterproof Jacket – Some people like to have a separate waterproof jacket which they only put on if the weather gets bad.
- Socks – It’s a good idea to have some thicker socks for mountaineering as they keep your feet warm and also stop blisters. Some people also wear liner socks for extra warmth and comfort.
- Mountaineering boots – Because the walking you’ll be doing requires crampons, you’ll need boots which are stiff enough to take them. You don’t have to buy these unless you particularly want to as there are places you can hire them at a much cheaper cost. If you DO want to buy them try looking for cheap deals in shops or online.
- Gloves – Essential when you’re on the hills. Woollen gloves are not good as they will just get wet so something like ski gloves are best! Sailing gloves are good, as they are designed for handling ropes and are warm when wet as well.
- Gaiters – These go over your boots and trousers to stop water going in. They don’t need to be massively expensive, you can find cheap ones all over the place.
- Day bag – This needs to be a small rucksack, probably no bigger than about 35 litres. You’ll need it to take all your necessary kit up to the huts and to carry and to take with you when you do the peak.
- Water bottle – Fairly obvious! Some people use bottles whilst other’s use bladders like Camelbak or Platypus. Its personal choice.
- Hat – A nice warm woolly hat to keep your head warm on those cold alpine nights (and mornings!)
- Sunglasses – Good sunglasses which cut out peripheral sunlight are important as the light reflecting off the snow is blinding. Our guide won’t let you climb without them. If you have skiing goggles these will work just as well!
- Walking poles – Not essential but some people prefer to have them.
- Crampons
- Ice axes
- Helmet
- Sleeping bag – The club can provide one of these for you if you don’t have your own.
- Sleeping bag liner – You won’t be taking a sleeping bag up to the hut, and whilst they have blankets for you some people like to sleep in a liner as it can be a bit nicer. They also keep you warmer at night! The club has a couple but they’re not particularly expensive to buy.
- Sleeping mat – The club can provide foam ones but you can get some nice air-filled ones relatively cheap if you want your own.
- Ear plugs – Very useful as the huts can be noisy at night and it makes it hard to get to sleep.
- Head torch – A must if you want to get around at night!
- Down Jacket – A luxury clothing item if you really want to be cosy at night. Basically a sleeping bag that you wear. Not necessary at all but nice to have if you want to splash out!
- General warm clothing – It gets cold at night so bring jumpers etc. The stuff you have for the mountains acts as a good double up!
- Trainers – Just normal trainers/approach shoes for wandering round the campsite.
- Everyday clothing and underwear – You don’t want to eb wearing your mountain gear the whole time!
- Sun cream – Really REALLY important. The UV exposure is higher at altitude and the light reflects off the snow so you burn quicker. A high factor should be used when you’re up in the mountains. Boots sell specific adventure and mountain suncreams.
- Sun Hat
- Toiletries
- Insect Repellent
- Towel
- Plate and bowl
- Cutlery
- Mug
- Penknife – If you have one bring it along but it is not essential.
- Leisure Equipment – MP3 players, cards, books, sports equipment, anything you like that will while away the hours that are not spent climbing!
Tents: The club provides all the tents but if you particularly want to bring your own please let us know so we know how many club ones to bring.
Useful shops and websites
If you do want to buy any of your own kit these are some good places to go.
- Ellis Brigham – Where me and Helena work. Also drop in and ask for Martin Jones if either of us are not there, he’s an ex-president and will be happy to help you! We can also try and get you some discount (but no promises!). Website: www.ellis-brigham.com
- Snow and Rock – Can do some good deals and they have a sale on at the moment. Website: www.snowandrock.com
- Cotswolds – Also good for random deals. Website: www.cotswoldoutdoor.com
- Field and Trek – Always seem to have a sale on! Website: www.fieldandtrek.com
- Alpkit – A brilliant website which sells their own brand kit. Really good quality and pretty damn cheap! Recommended if you want a cheap down jacket or sleeping mat. www.alpkit.com
- Rock and Run – An online store that sells loads of climbing gear at cheaper prices. www.rockrun.com
- Needle Sports – Another good online place that does loads of gear on the cheap. www.needlesports.com
