Gear List

This list is a personal gear list for our Mt. Washington ascents. You are responsible for bringing these items. Ice Climbing courses should also follow this list. All necessary technical equipment provided (helmet, crampons, ice axe, harness, and ropes). Mountaineering boots are not included though some are available for rental for $35 a day. Upper Body Base Layer : A good light to medium weight baselayer. Only wool and synthetic blends will do. This is one of your most important layers. -Guide Tip: I prefer to wear a thin base layer on my top and bottom. On really cold days, I'll add another thin to medium weight over it. Over-Base Layer : A mid weight fleece layer on cold days. 300 weight fleece will be too much. Insulation Layer : A thick fleece or soft shell. Soft shells work the best as they are usually water and wind resistance. -Guide Tip: If you are planning on buying a softshell, one with a hood is worth the little extra. Uninsulated Waterproof & Breathable Shell: A wind and waterproof layer. Make sure it's non insulated or you might be too hot. Down of Synthetic Jacket: A beefy down or synthetic jacket to put on during breaks and in cold temperatures. Lower Body Base Layer : A good light to medium weight base layer. Only wool and synthetic blends will do. This is one of your most important layers. -Guide Tip: I prefer to wear a thin base layer on my top and bottom. On really cold days, I'll add another thin to medium weight over it. Over-Base Layer : A mid weight fleece layer on cold days. 300 weight fleece will be too much. Uninsulated Waterproof & Breathable Shell : A wind and waterproof layer. Make sure it's non insulated or you might be too hot. Head and Face Fleece Hat: A good hat is a must. Make sure your ears are covered and the hat is made of fleece or wool. Balaclava: This is essential. High winds and cold temps on the mountain can give you frostnip or frostbite quickly. -Guide Tip: I suggest one with a neoprene face mask that is fleece on the neck and head. Ski Goggles (2 Pair): Not having ski goggles is a "no go". A second pair is a good choice as sometimes goggles ice up. -Guide Tip: Keep your goggles in a sock in a dry spot in your pack. When you put them on, keep them on. Don't put them on your head as they tend to freeze up from the sweat. Hands and Feet Liner Gloves: a pair of lightweight fleece or wool liner gloves Warm Gloves: A pair of warm, waterproof, and breathable gloves. Preferably with a leather palm and removable inner glove. Mittens: A pair of thick, warm, waterproof, and breathable mittens. Preferably with a leather palm and removable inner glove. Thick Wool Socks: A pair of thick, mountaineering type wool socks. Thin Liner Sock (optional): Some folks swear that liner socks significantly reduce their blister issues. If you are prone to blisters, these may be a good option. Gaiters: A pair of knee high gaiters will keep snow out of your boots and help protect your pants from sharp crampon points. Mountaineering Boots: A pair of double plastic mountaineering boots is a good choice for beginner mountaineers in a cold climate. Mountaineering boots are available for rental, please call ahead for all rentals. Gear Backpack (30 liters+): A backpack that will fit all the days gear. Make sure it's rugged and has a sternum and waist strap. Headlamp: Make sure you have a good headlamp with a fresh set of batteries, as well as an extra set of batteries. It's never a bad idea to have a small inexpensive backup headlamp. Sometimes these trips end in the dark. Lunch: Make sure you bring enough food and snacks for the day. Something quick and easy that's also high in calories. I usually bring a hearty sandwich as well as a couple snickers bars. First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit Sunblock: spf 30+ Optional Items Camera Light-weight thermos Water bottle insulator Hand/ foot warmers Trekking Poles Multi-Tool/Pocket knife Duct Tape (great for rips in clothing and blisters on feet)

North Ridge Mountain Guides 86 Glenallen St.
Winchendon MA, 01475
(978) 944-2885
jamie@northridgemountainguides.com
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