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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Climbing Equipment

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Waist Leash

Waist Leash

To be used with your ice axe, a commercial waist leash is designed to keep your ice axe attached to you even in the event that you drop it while climbing or taking a break. Note that only waist leashes will work - no wrist leashes!

Ice Axe

Ice Axe

A general mountaineering ice axe. We recommend the following size as a general guideline to follow. When in doubt, a shorter ice axe is better than a longer axe. Heights 5'4” and under should use a 52 cm axe, 5'5'' to 6’0'' use a 59 cm axe, above 6'0'' use a 66 cm axe. Note that wrist leashes should be removed from your axe. Check out our write-up to learn more about different ice axes.

Accessory Cord

Accessory Cord

40 feet of 6mm accessory cord to be used for prussiking and other climbing rigging. If you plan to bring your own pre-tied prussiks, please contact the Gear Department ahead of time. You will need cord for more than just prussiks. Make sure the cord is soft, flexible and supple. Stiff and rigid cord will not work. To test this, hold the final 12-inch/30-cm piece of the cord in the air, with your hand below. If the cord stands up straight (stalagmite style) it will not work.

Crampons

Crampons

General mountaineering crampons. We recommend modern steel 12-point crampons with anti-balling plates. Please do not bring 10-point, aluminum, or single-piece rigid crampons. If you have questions about the suitability of your crampons for your trip, call or email the Gear Department. Check out our write-up to learn more about how to fit your crampons.

Alpine Climbing Harness

Alpine Climbing Harness

Your harness must fit over all of your clothing, feature gear loops, adjustable leg loops and waist belt, and must be able to fully separate at the legs . We strongly recommend newer models with a belay loop and which do not require "doubling back" your waist belt - older models are cumbersome. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Locking Carabiners

Locking Carabiners

Four (4) locking carabiners are required. Screw-lock models are required, ideally with large openings for easy manipulation

Standard Carabiners

Standard Carabiners

Four (4) non-locking, lightweight carabiners. Wiregates are recommended over standard gates.

Trekking Poles

Trekking Poles

Collapsible skiing/trekking poles with snow baskets. Three-section varieties are preferred.

Ascender

Ascender

One right or left-handed ascender (pick your dominant hand to choose which style ascender). This item must be in good condition.

Footwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Wool or Synthetic Socks

Wool or Synthetic Socks

Three pairs of medium to heavy hiking socks. These must fit over your liner socks if you plan to wear liner socks.

High-Altitude Double Boot

High-Altitude Double Boot

Double boots. Plastic-shelled models are sufficient, but modern non-plastic boots are more comfortable and are highly recommended. Single boots of any kind (boots without a removable liner) will not be sufficient. If using a boot with a built-in gaiter, separate gaiters are not necessary. If using an all-in-one high altitude boot (e.g. Olympus Mons), overboots and gaiters are not necessary.

Insulated Overboots

Insulated Overboots

Below the knee length neoprene overboots. Should fit tightly over your boots and work well with your crampons. Required when using a high-altitude double-boot system. Not necessary for use with a high-altitude all-in-one boot system. Make sure your crampons are compatible with your overboots (strap on crampons preferred). We recommend reading this blog post on how to fit your overboots to your double boots and crampons.

Gaiters

Gaiters

Full-sized waterproof gaiters that must fit snugly over your boots. Short trekking gaiters do not offer sufficient protection. If using a boot with a built-in gaiter, separate gaiters are not necessary.

High-Altitude All-in-One Boot

High-Altitude All-in-One Boot

Used instead of standard double-boot, this all-in-one integrated boot system is warm enough for use without overboots, and eliminates the need for gaiters. If using triple boots, full strap-on crampons fit better than semi-automatic or fully automatic crampons.

Booties

Booties

Synthetic or down camp booties for comfortable wear around camp.

Snowshoes

Snowshoes

Lightweight, ascension-focused snowshoes with climb bars and metal traction.

Technical Clothing

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Short Underwear

Short Underwear

3-5 pairs including the pair you are wearing on Day 1. Synthetic or wool fabrics only - no cotton! Bring comfortable athletic styles based on your needs and preferences (e.g., boxers, briefs, sports bras).

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.

Heavy Baselayer Bottoms

Heavy Baselayer Bottoms

Heavy, expedition-weight baselayer bottoms designed to be used while climbing in very cold conditions. Fabrics such as Polartec Power Stretch, Capilene 4, and Polartec Power Dry will work well.

Baselayer Tops

Baselayer Tops

2-3 long-sleeved base layer tops total. We strongly recommend 1 light-colored sun hoody plus 1-2 other baselayer long-sleeved tops. Wool or synthetic fabrics are required (no cotton). Crew or zip-neck styles are equally useful.

Softshell Pants

Softshell Pants

Stretchy, comfortable, non-insulated softshell pants that should fit comfortably with or without your baselayer bottoms. Please note that "zip-off"-style trekking pants are too light to be considered softshell pants.

Hardshell Pants

Hardshell Pants

Non-insulated, fully waterproof shell pants that must fit comfortably over your baselayer bottoms and softshell pants. Full-length separating size zippers are generally required; occasionally, 7/8th zippers (extending from the cuff of the pant to the upper hip) can suffice but are strongly advised against. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Softshell Jacket

Softshell Jacket

This breathable but wind-and-weather resistant jacket is a key part of a mountaineering layering system. We recommend a hooded model. This layer must fit well over your midlayer top and baselayer top. Check out our write-up to learn more.

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.

Hardshell Jacket

Hardshell Jacket

A non-insulated, fully waterproof shell jacket with a hood. We recommend durable three-layer fabric. Goretex Pro Shell or a similar eVent fabric will offer the most durability and long-term weather protection. This layer must fit comfortably over your baselayer, midlayer, softshell, and potentially a lightweight insulated layer. Helmet-compatible hoods are required.

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.

Expedition Down Parka

Expedition Down Parka

An 8000-meter rated, expedition ready parka. This parka must be in excellent condition, fully baffled, and should be recently cleaned with Nikwax Down Wash to ensure maximum loft. We recommend calling to discuss your parka choice, as this item is key to success on any expedition.

Insulated Synthetic Pants

Insulated Synthetic Pants

A synthetic insulated pant with full-length separating side zips. Ski pants are typically not appropriate for this layer.

Handwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Lightweight Liner Gloves

Lightweight Liner Gloves

Two pairs of 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-colored gloves are also serviceable. Two pairs are necessary as one pair often wears through during the trip.

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.

Insulated Shell Gloves

Insulated Shell Gloves

One pair of warm shell gloves with insulated removable liners. Excellent for use when conditions are too cold for softshell gloves, but too warm for expedition mittens. We recommend models with a durable leather palm.

Expedition Mittens

Expedition Mittens

Expedition-rated mittens with an insulated removable liner. Please be sure this mitten is the warmest model available by any manufacturer.

Headwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Climbing Helmet

Climbing Helmet

A lightweight climbing-specific helmet. This must fit comfortably over your bare head, hat, and/or balaclava, and your headlamp must be able to strap securely to the outside of the helmet. Check out our write-up to learn more about helmets.

Buff

Buff

Two buffs are a must-have. 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.

Balaclava

Balaclava

One mid-to-heavyweight balaclava for face protection in very windy or stormy conditions. Choose a model that will fit comfortably over your head. Models with nose and mouth coverage are required.

Wool/Synthetic Ski Hat

Wool/Synthetic Ski Hat

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

Facemask

Facemask

Breathable models are recommended; be sure your face mask is sized well to your face. Guides recommend the Outeru Faceglove for its breathability and anti-fogging capability. Balaclavas with built-in face masks also work well.

Glacier Glasses

Glacier Glasses

High-quality glacier glasses offering full coverage around both eyes and across the nose. Removable side-shields are not required provided eye coverage is sufficient. For individuals that wear prescription glasses we recommend reading this blog post for tips on eyewear. For guide techniques on how to reduce glacier glasses from fogging check out this post here.

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.

Nose Guard

Nose Guard

Nose guards are optional, but can be useful for those with extra-sensitive noses in lieu of constant sunscreen application. Guides strongly recommend the Outeru face glove as a nose guard.

Personal Equipment

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Expedition Climbing Pack

Expedition Climbing Pack

A 75-100 liter climbing pack designed with climber-specific features and an internal frame. The volume you choose depends on experience level packing and gear quality. If opting for a pack smaller than 100 liters, practice packing to be sure you can efficiently use a smaller sized pack.

Caching Stuff Sack

Caching Stuff Sack

Bring one approximately 20-liter stuff sack for caching personal items on the lower mountain. Many sizes & styles of stuff sack can work well, though some prefer a water-resistant stuff sack.

-20°F Down Sleeping Bag

-20°F Down Sleeping Bag

This sleeping bag should be rated to -20°F and must be down-filled rather than synthetic filled for the sake of weight and bulk. Be sure to include a correctly sized compression stuff sack. Those who sleep cold should strongly consider a -40°F sleeping bag.

Inflatable Sleeping Pad

Inflatable Sleeping Pad

A full-length, modern inflatable sleeping pad is recommended. Older-style three-quarter length pads have been superseded by ultralight full-length pads. We recommend bringing a valve repair/body patch kit.

Foam Pad

Foam Pad

This pad should be either 3/4 or body length. Cut pieces of closed cell foam or industrially-crafted pads are both acceptable.

Water Bottle Parkas

Water Bottle Parkas

Bring two insulated water bottle parkas that fully cover your water bottle with closing lids. Thin “cozy” style neoprene sleeves do not provide enough insulation and are not recommended. We recommend the Forty Below Bottle Boot or the Outdoor Research Water Bottle Parka.

Thermos

Thermos

A stainless steel vacuum-sealed thermos with an air tight lid and thermal cup lid. We strongly recommended bringing a thermos for those who prefer hot water to help with hydration on cold mountain days. One-liter sizes are preferred, and avoid narrow-mouthed thermoses which can be challenging to fill.

Water Bottles

Water Bottles

Bring two one-liter capacity hard-sided water bottles. Wide-mouth, BPA-free plastic bottles are ideal. Nalgene brand bottles are recommended. No water bag or bladder systems (they freeze or are hard to fill) and no metal bottles (they have a tendency to freeze).

Mug

Mug

One insulated outdoor-style mug with a removable lid. Your mug should retain heat well and be spill resistant. Models with 12-20 oz capacity generally work best.

Knife

Knife

Medium-sized. Keep it simple and light.

Pee Bottle

Pee Bottle

Collapsible or hard-sided 1 liter Nalgene models can work well. If opting for a collapsible model, please pick a 1.5-2 liter model as it allows for more space while using in your sleeping bag. For longer expeditions and colder mountains (Everest, Vinson, Denali, etc..) we strongly recommend a hard-sided 1 liter Nalgene as the collapsible models tend to crack in extreme temperatures. Check out our write-up to learn more about pee bottles and funnels.

0.5L Nalgene Bottle (OPTIONAL)

0.5L Nalgene Bottle (OPTIONAL)

One 0.5L "baby" Nalgene bottle in lieu of a traditional mug is optional. This is a guide favorite for hot drinks - the leak-proof lid allows you to stick the bottle in your pocket or inside your jacket, keeping it - and you! - warmer. Bottles should be wide mouth made of co-polyester (BPA free plastic).

Bowl

Bowl

A sturdy bowl with a sealable lid to keep items hot. We recommend a 16oz Nalgene container with screw top lid. Many of our guides then duct tape a cut foam pad around the container for insulation.

Spoon

Spoon

One durable hard plastic or anodized metal spoon. Longer spoon stems can be helpful for eating while wearing gloves.

Pee Funnel (for Women)

Pee Funnel (for Women)

Optional. Practice is critical for the use of this item. Check out our write-up to learn more about pee funnels and bottles.

Trash Compactor/Contractor Bags

Trash Compactor/Contractor Bags

Three heavy plastic garbage bags for use as waterproof pack/stuff sack liners. Trash compactor or contractor bags are made from a heavier plastic and stand up well to prolonged mountain use. Alternatively, a reusable waterproof pack liner can be used provided it completely fills the inside of your pack.

Camera

Camera

Optional. Small point-and-shoot cameras (including compact SLR's) are ideal & work well at altitude. Alternatively, many opt to use a smartphone camera. Due to weight & care in the mountain environment, large dSLR cameras are discouraged.

Solar Panel + Power Bank (Optional)

Solar Panel + Power Bank (Optional)

Small portable solar panel and power bank for charging personal items like a cell phone on longer trips when access to power is not available. Solar panels with 10-20 charging watts that weigh no more than 2.5lbs are handy, lightweight, and cost-effective. We recommend bringing a small lightweight power bank like the Goal Zero Flip 36 or Venture 35 to store the solar power, and charging your devices directly from this power bank. For more information please see our blog post.

Toiletry Bag

Toiletry Bag

Include two rolls of toilet paper (stored in a plastic bag), hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and wet wipes. Choose quantities of each which are appropriate for the length of the trip.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen

Two to four ounces of SPF 30+ sunscreen. Varieties with zinc-oxide are more protective! Two to four ounces per week is typically sufficient, but several small tubes can offer insurance against lost or exploded tubes. Sunscreen loses SPF rating over time; we strongly recommend brand-new sunscreen.

Lipscreen

Lipscreen

Several tubes of SPF 30+ lipscreen. As with sunscreen, be sure your lipscreen is 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.

Sled Duffel Bag

Sled Duffel Bag

An approximately 150-liter expedition-ready duffel bag used to transport all gear on your sled during the trip. The duffel needs to be fully waterproof and durable. Choose a model like the North Face Base Camp duffel with specific sled tie-down points. This bag can also be used to travel with gear to and from your destination.

Small Personal First-Aid Kit

Small Personal First-Aid Kit

Basic medical supplies in a compact package. We recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, Moleskin, first-aid tape, Band-Aids, and anti-septic wipes or gel.

Medications & Prescriptions

Medications & Prescriptions

Bring any personal prescriptions, plus Pepto Bismol, Z-Paks (500mg tablets), Diamox (125mg tablets, approx. 2 per day at altitude), Zofran (4mg tablets), Immodium, Erythromycin ointment for those who wear glasses/contacts, cold medicine (Mucinex, Tylenol cold +flu, Theraflu), and a variety of over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Some find that Excedrin (a combination of aspirin, acetaminophen and caffeine) works particularly well at relieving altitude-related headaches. We also recommend a selection of hard candies and cough drops to handle the cold, dry air.

Hand Sanitizer

Hand Sanitizer

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

Hand and Toe Warmers

Hand and Toe Warmers

Bring three sets of each. Please note that toe warmers are different than hand warmers. They are formulated to work in a lower oxygen environment, like the inside of a boot, they also burn out more quickly.

Supplemental Food

Supplemental Food

Bring the following supplementary snack & energy items as described on your climb's Logistics page:

  • 42 ‘Bars’ (choose an assortment of energy bars, candy bars, granola bars, and cookies)
  • 6 Energy gels or chews (Honey Stinger Gel, Gu, Clif Shot Bloks)
  • Optional: 60 hard candies (Jolly Ranchers, Ricola Lozenges)
  • Optional: 21-42 servings energy drink mix (Nuun, Skratch Labs, Emergen-C, Gatorade)

Traveling

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Travel Clothes

Travel Clothes

Clean 'town' clothing is recommend for use traveling as well as pre-and-post trip. We recommend bringing a comfortable variety of clothing for peace of mind, including some t-shirts.

Small Duffel

Small Duffel

This item can double as carry-on luggage for your flight, and is used to store any items you do not plan to take into the mountains. Think light and simple, with 40-50 liters of total capacity. Bring a travel lock for peace of mind.

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 gear@alpineascents.com 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.