Winter Climbing Equipment

So you want to climb in winter!

Well the fist question you might be asking your self is what type of equipment will i be needing. A good question indeed!

Here we have put together a short list of the best climbing equipment on the market today which is ideally suited to winter climbing in the UK.

Ice Axes

The superfly is a combination of the of Fly and the Rebel two very good ice axes that Dmm produced. Putting the quality of these two axes into one, Dmm has produced probably the best ice axe for a majority of winter routes in the UK, taking you from a grade II to a comfortable garde VI the superfly also has the ability to add a clipper leash.

Crampons

Choosing crampons will be dictated by the type of boot that you buy, but for an all round good quality crampon that will work, then the Grivel Rambo is the perfect choice, not only ideal for Scottish climbing but also at home on ice falls, for those trips to Rjukan.

Boots

Choosing the right type of boot is probably the hardest thing to do. Choose the wrong boot and it could end up costing allot more than you thought. Always seek professional advice, take your time in making your decision and try as many different types as you can.

For most people that climb in the UK during the winter season and also venture to places like Rjukan, then the La Sportiva or the Freney XT GTX is probably going to do the best job, that money can buy.

Ideally suited to Scottish climbing, the Freney offers a Ultra light boot based on the Cumbre (AE Last) and designed for long and difficult alpine routes, winter and summer.

Another items such as Jackets, Pants gloves are all of a personal preferences, it is what you feel comfortable in, what keeps you warm and dry, so to cover these would only be a personal preference.

My current winter gear list compromises of the following.

Mammut Spindrift rucksack
Mammut Hybrid Jacket
Marmot 3XDry pants
Mountain Hardware Conduit Softshell
Mc Kinley Windstopper Jacket
Freney XT GTX Boots
Grivel G14 GSb crampons
Black Diamond Rage axes

Of course this is down to personal preference, but i do try to get the best at the time. Remember if you can not afford the best this week wait until next week or month, that extra cash that you save up will be worth it.

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