MATTERHORN KIT LIST - Adventure Base
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MATTERHORN KIT LIST

"There's no such thing as a bad weather, only inappropriate clothing" Ranulph Fiennes

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The Matterhorn is one of the most iconic peaks in the mountain world. If you’ve climbed with us before on some of our popular Alpine routes (Mont Blanc / Eiger / Monte Rosa) then you should be pretty familiar with the kit below. However, kit moves on and you might want to upgrade some of your gear which is always a fun task.

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

CLICK HERE FOR THE DOWNLOAD OF THE FULL MATTERHORN KIT LIST

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.

SHORTS

A shorts option is great for warm days or when spending time indoors.

B2 BOOTS (CAN BE RENTED)

While you can use B3 boots on this climb we recommend B2 boots as they allow you to be a little more agile on the more technical terrain. Something like: The Scarpa Ribelle will 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

Despite it being summer, you’ll still need sunglasses with Cat. 4 lenses (ideally glacier glasses with side shields), that provide 100% UV protection on snow and ice. 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 Freebirdsgoggles.

Adventure Base clients get 15% off your first order – Learn more here

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. It should be large enough to carry all your equipment up to the huts where you can remove certain items before summit days. 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 ‘Raven’ Ice Axe.

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 FOR THE DOWNLOAD OF THE FULL MATTERHORN KIT LIST

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