We get it… it can be quite daunting when looking at the kit requirements for a trip like this. The good news is if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or have skied before then you’re likely to have quite a lot of this kit. If not it might seem like an investment at first but once you’ve got the kit your set for other popular mountain routes like Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, Elbrus, the Eiger and the Monte Rosa.
Below is a list of our recommended kit for your trip.
You can find more detailed information below and what that looks like on the trip page here. As always, if you have any questions or concerns then drop us a message.
KEY CLOTHING ITEMS
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HARDSHELL WATERPROOF JACKET
A hardshell jacket of Gore-Tex, or similar standard, is one of your key pieces of kit. Make sure it’s big enough to put over multiple layers and that it comes with a hood. You’ll use this if the weather becomes a little wild and you need protection from wind and rain. Something like: The ‘Hodr’, ‘Grim’ or ‘Odin’ Jottnar hardshell jacket.
INSULATED MID LAYER
There are a few options here depending on your preferences but this layer needs to be a warm thick fleece, a softshell or a light down jacket. This is one of your key insulating layers so something comfortable and technical is recommended. Something like: The ‘Asger’ or ‘Floyen’ jackets from Jottnar are ideal.
LONG SLEEVE BASE LAYER TOPS x 2
Some long sleeve lightweight mid layers are required as they will be the second piece of your layering system. Something like: The ‘Svend’ or ‘Tyer’ from Jottnar.
SHORT SLEEVE BASE LAYER TOPS x 2
The first of your layering system. A top tip is to look for an anti-microbial treatment to keep things as fresh as possible. Something like: The ‘Ove’ or ‘Mar’ from Jottnar.
HARDSHELL WATERPROOF SHELL PANTS
Hardshell trousers of Gore-Tex, or similar standard, are required for this trip. Ideally they come with side zips to provide a little more ventilation when you’re working hard. Something Like: The ‘Valdyr’ from Jottnar works well.
SOFT-SHELL MOUNTAINEERING / TREKKING PANTS
This is the trouser you will spend a lot of your time in so make sure it’s comfortable. Something like: The ‘Valen’ from Jottnar is ideal.
BASE LAYER LEGGINGS
Make sure you’ve got some full leg, lightweight leggings will keep you warm and toasty.
B3 BOOTS (CAN BE RENTED)
We recommend the use of B3 boots for this mountain adventure. These should be waterproof, warm and sturdy. Top tip if you’re buying them, make sure you leave a little room at your toes but not enough so that your heel moves when you walk. It will make for a much more comfortable fit. Something like: The Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro, unsurprisingly, work well
To learn more about the correct footwear, check out our ‘Let’s talk about mountaineering boots’ article.
TRAIL SHOES / HIKING SHOES
Trail or hiking boots will be more comfortable on the lower section of the mountain as well as any days you’re in the town.
HATS / FACE COVERINGS
You’ll need a sun cap, a warm hat that covers your ears and a buff or balaclava. The idea should be that if needed, you can cover your whole face.
EYEWEAR
You’ll need sunglasses with Cat. 4 sunglasses (ideally glacier glasses with side shields), that provide 100% UV protection. We recommend VALLON Heron Glacier sunglasses. You’ll also need some goggles (ski goggles are ideal), that can be easily thrown on if it’s windy. We recommend VALLON’s Freebirds™ goggles.
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HAND GEAR
You will need a thin softshell glove that provide protection in the cooler temperatures and when on the glacier and a thick warm glove (Like expedition shell gloves) that are ideally Gore-Tex and have a removable inner glove.
PACKS
We recommend a 30-40 litres pack but it all depends on how you light to pack and what you like to bring. Something like: The Osprey Mutant 38 Litre
ICE AXE (CAN BE RENTED)
You will need one ice axe with or without a strap. Something like: The Black Diamond ‘Venom’ or ‘Viper’ ice axe will work well.
CRAMPONS (CAN BE RENTED)
You will need some 12-point steel mountaineering crampons with anti-balling plates. Something like: The Black Diamond ‘Serac’ crampons.
CLIMBING HELMET (CAN BE RENTED)
While it’s highly unlikely anything will fall on you, a head injury can occur. Taking every precaution in a remote environment is important which is why you will need a lightweight climbing helmet. Something like: The Black Diamond ‘Vision’ Helmet would work well.
HARNESS (CAN BE RENTED)
This should be comfortable, adjustable and large enough to fit over all clothing. Something Like: The Black Diamond ‘Couloir’ harness is great.
TREKKING POLES (CAN BE RENTED)
Adjustable poles will help on some of the trekking sections both ascending and descending.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL ICE CLIMBING SKILLS KIT LIST