Overview

  • Each item on the list below is required unless specified to be optional.
  • If seasonal fluctuations impact the requirement for an item on your list, it will be specified.
  • All other items are required regardless of the forecast to ensure your well-being, as weather and conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
  • Item images represent one product suggestion for that item.
  • Item images may or may not reflect the model of item available for rent.

RENTAL RESERVATION INSTRUCTIONS

  • Items with a price & check box may be rented.
  • Check the box of any item you desire to rent.
  • Complete the personal detail section at the bottom of the page, and click submit.
  • If you are a non-Alpine Ascents climber seeking rental equipment, please inquire via email.

FURTHER RESOURCES

  • If you wish to learn more about any piece of gear, the online Gear Lexicon is available 24/7.
  • A printable/downloadable PDF version of the Gear Lexicon may also be accessed here.
  • For in-depth articles, pro-tips, and advice on select subjects, check out our blog.
  • Our experienced staff are happy to speak with you via phone, or via email.
  • The Alpine Ascents Gear Store offers a wide range of products to suit your needs. All registered climbers are welcome to utilize the discount code contained in your confirmation materials.
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Footwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Socks

Socks

One to two pairs of skiing or hiking socks. Consider heavier socks than ski racing socks for warmth.

Ski/Snowboard Boots

Ski/Snowboard Boots

Plan to use alpine touring ski boots or snowboard boots based on your chosen method of snow travel. Standard downhill (alpine) ski boots are not designed for touring and will not be sufficient. ProSki North Bend and ProSki Seattle rent ski touring boots.

Snow Boots

Snow Boots

If you plan to snowshoe, bring waterproof snow or mountaineering boots compatible with strap-on snowshoes. We recommend a high-topped boot for warmth and waterproofness. You will be walking in deep unconsolidated snow. Depending on the weather forecast, you may choose between renting La Sportiva Nepal Evo GTX single boots or Koflach Degre double boots. Not needed if skiing/splitboarding.

Snow Gaiters

Snow Gaiters

Full-size waterproof gaiters that fit snugly with your snow boots. Short trekking gaiters will not offer sufficient protection from the snow. Those using ski pants and ski boots/snowboard boots do not need to bring gaiters.

Technical Clothing

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Short Underwear

Short Underwear

One pair. Synthetic or wool fabrics only; bring a comfortable athletic style for any top and bottom underwear.

Baselayer Bottom

Baselayer Bottom

Non-cotton baselayer bottoms that should fit snugly without constriction. We recommend lighter weight baselayers rather than heavier fleece-type layers. Wool, wool blend, polyester, or other synthetic fabrics all work well. Be sure your baselayer pants are not constructed from cotton.

Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

One long-sleeved base layer top. This item must be constructed of a non-cotton material such as merino wool or polyester. Note that light-colored, hooded sun shirts are strongly recommended for sun protection, and are worn by guides throughout most climbs.

Ski Touring Pants

Ski Touring Pants

If not using touring pants, you will need shell pants as listed below. Whether you plan to ski or splitboard, purpose-built ski touring pants are recommended as your lower-body outerwear. For cold or precip-free days, hybrid softshell models like the Outdoor Research Trailbreaker are best. For wetter days, hybrid hardshell models like the Outdoor Research Skyward work best. Both models feature dedicated beacon pockets and fit well over ski/snowboard boots.

Shell Pants

Shell Pants

If not using touring pants, you will need a pair of shell pants suitable for the weather forecast. Ski/snowboard pants can usually work for this layer. Plan to use hardshell (waterproof) pants for warmer and wetter forecasts, or softshell (windproof) pants for dry and cool forecasts. Alpine Ascents has both styles available to rent.

Midlayer Top

Midlayer Top

A midweight, form-fitting, lightweight fleece layer for use over baselayers. Hoods are optional but recommended. Grid fleeces generally provide the best warmth-to-weight ratio. Note that very light puffy jackets can also suffice as a midlayer.

Touring Jacket

Touring Jacket

Bring along one of the following types of layers: softshell, windshell, lightweight active insulation layer, etc. This jacket is designed to be worn when you need protection from the wind or light, dry precipitation. If the weather forecast allows it, you might consider leaving behind your midlayer and counting on this layer for warmth in middle temperatures.

Hardshell Jacket

Hardshell Jacket

A non-insulated, fully waterproof shell jacket with a hood. Must fit comfortably over your baselayer, midlayer, and softshell.

Lightweight Insulated Jacket

Lightweight Insulated Jacket

Your lightweight insulated jacket serves either as a layering piece or as stand-alone insulation when appropriate. This may be filled with down or synthetic insulation. Down feathers are more packable and lighter weight, while synthetic insulation will retain warmth when wet.

Handwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Lightweight Liner Gloves

Lightweight Liner Gloves

Very lightweight wool or synthetic liner gloves that offer a snug, comfortable fit. Lighter colors absorb less sunlight while still offering UV protection. Black or dark-color gloves are also acceptable.

Softshell Gloves

Softshell Gloves

Midweight, lightly insulated gloves for use when mittens are too warm and liner gloves are not warm enough. Leather-palm construction is always ideal for the sake of durability. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Waterproof Ski Gloves

Waterproof Ski Gloves

One pair of very waterproof gloves designed for cool-to-cold weather use. Consider warmer pairs for colder forecasts, or lighter pairs for warmer forecasts. Regardless, ensure that your gloves will remain waterproof as you will spend time digging in the snow while using these gloves. Treated leather or synthetic materials can both work well.

Headwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Buff

Buff

A must-have for all outdoor activities, the UV Buff is a versatile replacement for the bandana and serves a multitude of purposes. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Sun Hat

Sun Hat

Any style of lightweight hat for shading the head will work well. Baseball caps and sombrero-style sun hats are the most common.

Wool/Synthetic Ski Hat

Wool/Synthetic Ski Hat

A non-cotton wool or synthetic hat that covers the head and ears comfortably.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses

High-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses with good all-around protection are recommended. A good fit is critical for comfort- try on glasses to check for a comfy fit and good light blockage. Keep in mind that high-quality lenses are an absolute must due to mountain sun.

Ski Goggles

Ski Goggles

High-quality goggles for sun and wind protection at altitude. The lens should offer visible light transmission (VLT) of no more than 30%. Those with light-sensitive eyes may wish to use a darker lens. Photochromic models are ideal for use in changing conditions. See here for more.

Ski Helmet (Optional)

Ski Helmet (Optional)

Used at personal preference for any downhill skiing or riding. If opting to use a ski helmet, be sure to bring one purpose-built. Note that climbing and biking helmets are not suitable for skiing unless specifically dual-rated.

Personal Equipment

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Avalanche Transceiver

Avalanche Transceiver

457 kHz digital avalanche transceiver (also known as a beacon). Bring a modern, multi-antenna, digital transceiver. Stay away from older models with a single antenna or analog-only operation. Be sure to bring fresh alkaline batteries, as rechargeable or lithium batteries are not acceptable to use with most beacons. Read more about batteries for beacons here.

Touring Skis/Splitboard

Touring Skis/Splitboard

Skis or a splitboard compatible with your ski/snowboard boots. These must be designed for touring with a walk/climb mode as uphill travel is a necessity. Ensure your skis/board have leashes or ski brakes. ProSki North Bend and ProSki Seattle rent ski touring and splitboard setups with climbing skins.

Shovel

Shovel

Collapsible, purpose-built avalanche shovels are required for this course. Models with extendable handles make shoveling drills easier, though very compact rescue shovels can suffice.

Climbing Skins

Climbing Skins

One pair of climbing skins pre-cut to fit the exact pair of skis or splitboard you plan to use are required. Practice putting these on and taking these off of your skis or splitboard prior to the course. If planning to use snowshoes instead of skis or a splitboard, skins are not required.

Probe

Probe

An avalanche probe is a must-have for this trip. Bring a collapsible probe between 240-320 centimeters in length. Carbon or aluminum models both work well. Longer probes offer greater search depth and allow for deeper penetration when assessing the snowpack - consider longer lengths especially if you intend to spend time in the winter backcountry in the Pacific Northwest where the snowpack is often very deep.

Ski Poles

Ski Poles

Adjustable ski poles are required for skiers, splitboarders, and snowshoers. We recommend 2 or 3-section poles, and note that large powder baskets are a must for travel in winter snow. We discourage using carbon fiber ski poles as they tend break more easily. Poles with small snow baskets will slice deeply into the snow and render the poles useless.

Backpack

Backpack

A 30-40 liter pack sufficient to carry your probe, shovel, snacks, water, and extra layers. Backpacking, climbing, and town packs can all work, although a touring-specific pack is best. Touring packs offer a snow tools pocket which is efficient for the carriage and deployment of your probe and shovel, and are built for comfortable uphill and downhill travel. If you are purchasing a pack, consider an airbag pack. Airbags do not prevent being caught in an avalanche but statistically increase the chance of surviving an avalanche. Note that we only offer climbing packs to rent, not skiing packs, and the smallest size is 75L.

Snowshoes

Snowshoes

Snowshoes compatible with your boots are required. These will provide traction and flotation in deep snow. Lightweight, ascent-focused snowshoes with metal traction are preferred. Models with a heel-riser to aid in uphill travel are best. Snowshoes are not needed if you plan to use touring skis or a splitboard.

Snow Study Kit (Optional)

Snow Study Kit (Optional)

A snow study kit including a crystal card, inclinometer (slope meter), thermometer, loupe, and hangable case is recommended but not required. Folding rulers can be a helpful addition to most snow study kits. This is especially recommended for those intending to progress their avalanche education beyond Level 1.

Snow Saw (Optional)

Snow Saw (Optional)

While the course instructors will bring snow saws for demonstration purposes, a snow saw is an important tool for digging snow pits and carrying out various slope stability and snowpack assessment tests. Some models can be attached to ski poles, giving the user greater mobility and reach for deeper snowpacks. This is especially recommended for those intending to progress their avalanche education beyond Level 1.

Maps/Nav Apps (Optional)

Maps/Nav Apps (Optional)

It is useful to have map sets (USGS Quads) for our course location. Contact the Gear Department to get recommendations on which maps are recommended. Alternatively or in addition to paper maps, wilderness mapping apps like Gaia GPS make the most of smartphone technology.

Water Bottle

Water Bottle

One or two 1-liter capacity bottles. No water bag or bladder systems (they freeze or are hard to fill).

Thermos

Thermos

We strongly recommend a 12-16 ounce thermos. It can be very cold, and hot tea or other hot beverages can greatly improve comfort and safety.

Compass (Optional)

Compass (Optional)

A Northern Hemisphere compass with a sighting mirror and adjustable declination. Mechanical compasses are recommended over electronic compasses for wilderness navigation. This item is not required, but is useful in assessing wind direction, slope aspect, and for backcountry navigation.

Sun Protection

Sun Protection

Bring one 2-ounce tube of SPF 30+ sunscreen, as well as one tube of SPF-rated lipscreen. All sunscreens lose SPF ratings over time; be sure your sun protection is brand-new.

Altimeter/Smart Watch (Optional)

Altimeter/Smart Watch (Optional)

Altimeter and Smart Watches are increasingly popular and a great way to track your trip in the field. Models with GPS tracking, altimeter, and activity mode options are most common in addition to having traditional watch features like an alarm clock. Smart watches can be a very helpful tool in training for your climb. For a long trip, we recommend bringing a power bank and charging cable into the field as GPS tracking requires a significant amount of a battery power. For more information on altimeters and smart watches please read our blog post.

Hand Sanitizer

Hand Sanitizer

Many alcohol-based hand cleaners will work well. Bring a small amount appropriate to the trip duration.

Lunch/Snacks

Lunch/Snacks

Pack a full day's worth of snacks/lunch food for each field day. This food needs to be ready to eat (no cooking required) as we snack on the go, between drills, or at short breaks. Bring enough food for a full day of movement in the outdoors. Consider packing a thermos full of hot coffee, tea, cider, or cocoa especially if the weather forecast is cold and/or wet.

Traveling

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Parking Fees

Parking Fees

Participants are responsible for any parking fees at trailheads. Many ski areas now charge a parking fee per vehicle if you do not have a season pass. We recommend checking the venue for your course to confirm any parking fees that may apply.

Rental Agreement Terms and Conditions

I promise to return all equipment rented from Alpine Ascents International, Inc. in good condition at the end of my climb/course. I agree and authorize Alpine Ascents International, Inc. to charge my credit card on file for repairs and/or replacements of damaged, lost or stolen gear. And I agree not to hold Alpine Ascents International, Inc. responsible for any injuries incurred through the use of its rental equipment.

Rental Information

Reserving: Please submit one reservation per person per departure. We recommend submitting reservations at least one month in advance to ensure adequate time for processing. Incomplete reservations may cause delay or failure to reserve requested items. Cancellations must be made three weeks in advance of your departure.

Washington Rentals: All rental equipment for trips taking place in Washington will be picked up during your gear check at our Seattle headquarters. For trips with an off-site gear check please contact the Gear Department to pick up your rentals in Seattle. At that time, payment will be taken for all rented items. No security deposit will be charged for Washington rentals; however, Alpine Ascents reserves the right to assess fees for the replacement or repair of any damaged items.

Alaska Rentals: Due to the unique nature of Alpine Ascents' Alaska program, some items requested may be picked up in Talkeetna at your gear check rather than shipped directly to you. However, not all rental items are available for pickup in Talkeetna. Payment for Alaska rentals will be charged to the on-file credit card after your gear check, including a $50 security deposit per item. Alpine Ascents reserves the right to withhold all or part of your security deposit for the replacement or repair of damaged items. All equipment, whether shipped to you or picked up in Alaska, may be de-issued at the Alpine Ascents Alaska facility at the end of your trip.

International Rentals: All rental equipment for trips taking place internationally will be shipped to you approximately two weeks prior to your trip departure date. A USA address must be provided for rental shipments. Rental equipment may not be shipped internationally. At the time of shipment, charges will be assessed to the credit card on file, including shipping charges, rental fees, and applicable security deposits. Please immediately contact the Gear Department with any questions.

Confirmation: Allow 48-72 hours for rental confirmation via email. If you have any questions or have not heard back from us within three (3) working days, please email [email protected] or call (206) 378-1927 and ask for the Gear Department.

Payment: The credit card on file will be used to process rental payment. For climbs in Washington, payment will be taken at your gear check and no security deposit will be required. For climbs taking place outside of Washington, charges are processed at the time of shipment (approximately two weeks prior to departure date) and will include a $50 security deposit per item plus shipping. Shipping cost is based on size and weight and can only be determined at the time of shipment.

Security Deposit: Fees are fully refundable upon a timely return (one week from the end of trip). Fees may be assessed for repair or replacement of damaged item(s). Please allow up to two weeks for your refunded to be credited. Please note that for items not returned within one week after a trip end date Alpine Ascents reserves the right to withhold all or part of your security deposit.

Shipment: Rental items for climbs taking place outside of Washington are scheduled to ship two weeks prior to your trip departure. Once received, please verify that all items are correct and fit appropriately. Please note that sizing information provided is used to determine the sizes of items shipped. You are responsible for rentals once items are shipped and until items are received back at Alpine Ascents. We encourage you to insure your shipment.