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
Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe

Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe

Lightweight ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and steep skiing, such as the Petzl Gully or Petzl Ride. Length should be 50-60cm (65cm max).

Ski Crampons

Ski Crampons

Ski crampons that attach to your ski bindings and pivot underfoot as you skin uphill, used on firm snow where skins alone do not offer enough grip. Make sure your ski crampon is compatible with your tour binding.

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. Your crampons must be compatible with you ski boots. If you have questions about the suitability of your crampons, email the Gear Department. Check out our write-up to learn more about how to fit your crampons.

Climbing Harness Plus Two Locking Carabiners

Climbing Harness Plus Two Locking Carabiners

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. Bring two locking carabiners in addition to the harness, which will be used only with the harness. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Footwear

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
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.

Booties

Booties

Optional. Synthetic or down camp booties for comfortable wear around camp.

Wool or Synthetic Socks

Wool or Synthetic Socks

Four to five pairs of heavyweight socks. If using liner socks, these must be sized to fit with your liner socks. Check the fit inside your boots, and be sure to bring new socks.

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.

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.

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.

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. Helmet-compatible hoods are required. Check out our write-up to learn more.

Insulated Down Parka

Insulated Down Parka

This jacket or parka should be heavily insulated with high-quality down fill. We recommend an overall parka weight between 1.5 and 2.5 pounds. For warmth, a hood is required. Down sweaters or light puffy jackets will not be sufficient. Check out our write-ups here and here to learn more about down fill and down weight.

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.

Helmet

Helmet

Dual-rated climbing/skiing helmets are strongly recommended. These helmets, like the Petzl Meteor, combine the incredibly light weight of a climbing helmet with the full fall protection of a heavier ski helmet. These helmets also offer much greater ventilation for uphill travel. Ski/snowboard helmets or standard climbing helmets can suffice.

Personal Equipment

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
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.

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.

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.

Ski Straps (2)

Ski Straps (2)

Two ski straps. Ski straps are an incredibly useful tool for backcountry skiers/riders. Having two straps allows us to easily connect skis to our pack and can be used in a variety of situations if a piece of equipment breaks. We recommend polyurethane straps with an aluminum buckle.

Ski Pack

Ski Pack

This backpack needs to be big enough to accommodate all of your equipment, including avalanche rescue tools, for several days and nights in the backcountry. For those with extremely honed kits, a 45-liter pack can suffice. However, most should choose an approximately 60-liter pack. Purpose-built, touring-specific packs are recommended but not required.

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.

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.

20 Degree Fahrenheit Down Sleeping Bag

20 Degree Fahrenheit Down Sleeping Bag

Due to the need to keep packs as light as possible, only down-filled sleeping bags may be used on this trip. Your sleeping bag should be rated to approximately 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to include a compression stuff sack.

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).

Spoon

Spoon

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

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.

Bowl

Bowl

One two-cup capacity packable bowl. Models with a lid (like a Tupperware) work well, as do lidless bowls and flatter "deep plate" models. Collapsible models can suffice, but must be handled very carefully to avoid unintended collapsing.

Disposable Waste Kits

Disposable Waste Kits

All solid waste must be carried out of the backcountry, so one waste kit per 1-2 days is typically sufficient. Kits are reusable at your personal discretion.

Small personal power bank (Optional)

Small personal power bank (Optional)

Small portable battery bank for charging personal items like a cell phone. We recommend models that weight less than 7oz and have enough charge for the length of the trip. Good options Goal Zero Flip 36 which can charge a smartphone three times. We strongly recommend keeping phones in airplane mode to increase battery life in the field. If concerned about pack weight, we recommend forgoing this item.

Toiletry Bag

Toiletry Bag

Include toilet paper (stored in a plastic bag), hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wet wipes, and any personal medications or prescriptions. Choose a quantity appropriate for the length of your trip. Female climbers should bring an appropriate amount of feminine hygiene products for the duration of the trip (for international trips, these can be difficult to find last minute in-country).

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.

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.

Hand Sanitizer

Hand Sanitizer

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

Face Mask (Optional)

Face Mask (Optional)

We recommend that all climbers have a face mask easily accessible in a waterproof bag (Ziploc, etc.).

Food

Food

Please review the food information on your climb Logistics page. A close reading of this information is important towards a smooth trip. Please contact our office with any food-related questions. For additional food tips, check out this write-up.

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.