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
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.

Carabiner System

Carabiner System

You will want exactly the right climbing hardware for your climb. Follow this list carefully: two (2) large oval wiregate carabiners; two (2) smaller wiregate carabiners; one (1) large pear-shaped locking screwgate carabiner; one (1) large locking carabiner (can be auto-locking). If you have any questions about your carabiners, please contact the Gear Department.

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.

Belay Device plus 1 Locking Carabiner

Belay Device plus 1 Locking Carabiner

Modern tube-style belay device and 1 large, pear-shaped locking carabiner. Avoid super-specialized belay devices which cannot accept a wide variety of rope diameters. We recommend models like the Black Diamond Guide ATC or Petzl Reverso.

Rappel/Belay Device

Rappel/Belay Device

Due to the prevalence of larger-diameter fixed lines on this climb, a figure-8 style rappel/belay device is required. Please note that devices like the Black Diamond ATC-Guide will not work well on these fixed lines.

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
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.

Camp Boots

Camp Boots

Optional. Insulated, non-technical winter boots for time spent around Base Camp.

Insulated Camp Booties

Insulated Camp Booties

Down or synthetic insulated camp booties for use inside boot shells or when sleeping in your tent.

Light Hiking Boots or Trekking Shoes

Light Hiking Boots or Trekking Shoes

For any approaches across dry trail. Light weight, high comfort, plenty of room in the toe box, and good support should be stressed here. Street/city style shoes will not be allowed in place of hiking shoes.

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.

Liner Socks

Liner Socks

Four pairs of smooth, thin non-cotton socks to be used as liner socks to be worn underneath your wool or synthetic socks.

Technical Clothing

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
Short Underwear

Short Underwear

Two to three 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).

Baselayers Tops & Bottoms

Baselayers Tops & Bottoms

Two to three (2-3) each of lightweight baselayer pants, long-sleeved shirts, and short-sleeved shirts. Non-cotton fabrics only- consider merino wool blends or synthetic fibers such as polyester.

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.

Trekking Pants

Trekking Pants

1-2 pair of lightweight nylon trekking pants. We recommend models that are simple, made with synthetic fabrics, and offer pockets for convenience. Zip-off models are not required, but are preferred by some.

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.

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.

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.

Expedition Down Pants

Expedition Down Pants

In complement to the Expedition Down Parka, these heavily insulated down pants must be sized to fit over all other layers, with a weatherproof outer shell fabric.

Down Suit

Down Suit

This item is optional but recommended. If electing to use a down suit, separate down pants and a down parka are not required, as they are replaced by the suit.

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

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.

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

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.

Balaclava System

Balaclava System

Two full balaclavas, one heavyweight and one lightweight, that will comfortably layer together. These items are not replaced by a Buff.

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.

Headlamp

Headlamp

A modern outdoor LED headlamp offering 200-300 lumens of output. Freshly installed batteries plus spare batteries. Rental headlamps do not include spare batteries. Weather-resistant models are strongly preferred. Check out our write-ups here to learn more.

Personal Equipment

Description
Click to Reserve/Buy Item
-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. This bag will remain at basecamp and you will take your -40°F bag above basecamp.

-40°F Down Sleeping Bag

-40°F Down Sleeping Bag

This sleeping bag will be used above basecamp and should be rated to -40°F. Down bags are a must, synthetic bags are overly bulky and heavy when rated below 0°F.

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.

55-Liter Climbing Pack

55-Liter Climbing Pack

Capacity is approximate. Keep it simple, light, and climbing specific. Crampon and ice axe attachment points are a must.

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).

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 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.

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

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.

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.

Large Duffel Bags

Large Duffel Bags

Three (3) large duffel bags should be used for transporting all gear to basecamp. 1-2 of those duffels will be taken straight to basecamp with all of the climbing gear and won't be seen again until you arrive. You will also need 1 duffel for the trek to basecamp portion of the expedition. Bags with rollers or wheels are not accepted. Soft-sided, water-resistant duffels are required.

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 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).

Water Treatment Tools

Water Treatment Tools

You need to be able to treat four to six liters of water for personal consumption each day while on the trek to Base Camp. Steri-Pen purification tools have become very popular - they quickly and easily treat water without the addition of chemical tastes. However, some find them temperamental from a battery perspective, even when extra batteries are available. Please bring one set of Aquamira chemical treatment drops as well, in case your Steri-Pen fails. Once you arrive at Base Camp, all the water will be boiled.

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.

Running Shoes

Running Shoes

Lightweight, comfortable running or walking shoes are recommended for off-mountain use and pre-and-post trip travel. In some situations, these may also serve as approach shoes.

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.

Medications & Prescriptions

Medications & Prescriptions

Bring any personal prescriptions, plus Pepto Bismol, Metronidazole (500mg tablets), 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.

Face Mask (Optional)

Face Mask (Optional)

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

Shower Gear

Shower Gear

A small packable towel, shower sandals, and a small bottle of soap/shampoo can be nice to have for personal hygiene during the trip.

Base Camp Comforts

Base Camp Comforts

It is good to bring additional other items which you have previously found useful- playing cards, music players, board games, reading tablets, etc.

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.

Food

Food

All the food for this trip is provided, but bring any snacks or other food and drink items you wouldn’t want to climb without!

Please let us know in advance if you have any food allergies we should be aware of.

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.