You’ve probably heard that most of your body heat escapes from your head.  When you’re feeling cold, the first piece to add to your clothing system is a hat.  This should cover your ears and can be made of fleece or merino wool. 

When the temperatures drop and the wind picks up, the skin on your face becomes very vulnerable to frost-nip, and even worse, frostbite.  Wearing a buff adds protection and warmth to your clothing system.

This may be required situationally.

You may choose to bring sunglasses instead, so bringing both is helpful and you can make a last minute decision on what to take on the tour.

Glove liners are very useful for the more aerobic approach to your climb.

We recommend having at least 2 pairs of gloves or mittens.  Insulated gloves, like ski gloves, with a windproof/waterproof shell are a must for higher elevations and more technical climbing.  Mittens with a windproof/waterproof shell are essential for those colder temperatures or if you tend to get cold hands.

Staying hydrated is very important.  Having a bottle that keeps your water from freezing is equally as important.  A double-wall insulated bottle does the job great.  Wide-mouth water bottles are recommended for winter. 1-2 liters of water is a minimum to keep you hydrated during the day.  Please do not use hydration systems, single-wall metal water bottles, or thin plastic.  All of these systems freeze easily, making the water unavailable to you. It is a good idea to bring an extra water bottle for both the drive to and from the trailhead.

Fuel your body.  Only bring enough food that you will actually eat plus a small amount extra.  An example of this would be- A sandwich for lunch, a few bars, and some chocolate.  We are usually out for 4-8 hours during the day, so enough to make it through that is plenty.

Remember- a sweet treat may be just what you need when the going gets tought!

Our guides carry first aid kits with them, but you can make/bring your own tailored to your needs and let us know if you use inhalers, EpiPens, etc.  Blisters are the number one issue we face while ski touring so having some tape or Moleskin with you can go a long way in keeping the day fun.

20-35 Liter pack is recommended with a max 20lb load.  This does not need to be a ski specific pack (we will talk about what makes a good pack during the course).  Use a backpack large enough to stow all of your gear on the inside without having to strap any of your personal gear on the outside where it is exposed to the elements.  Tip:  Pack your backpack with your gear before you arrive and make sure you still have enough room to stow your puffy jacket, hard-shell jacket, and extra warm layers for the initial hike in.  This will save an enormous amount of time in the morning.

Single pair of wool socks.  How many times have your feet been way too cold?  Merino wool or wool blends are great natural insulators, even when wet.  Too heavy of a layering on your feet is your worst enemy; it constricts your blood flow and causes your feet to be cold.

There’s no way around it — you sweat.  Wear fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin.  Unlike 100% cotton that gets wet and stays wet, wicking fabrics help you regulate your core temperature and avoid overheating or chilling.  Great examples of winter base layers include merino wool layers and Lightweight and Midweight polyester (which wicks, packs, wears, and washes like nothing else).  Both top and bottom are needed.  Light to midweight merino wool or synthetics, with a snug fit and close to skin.

Mid-layers add insulation to help retain heat that your body creates and are worn between the base layer and outer jacket.  Examples of insulating mid-layers include a fleece jacket or a synthetic jacket made of PrimaLoft® 200-300 weight fleece, heavyweight soft shell, or lightweight synthetic jacket.

If you run cold, you may want to add a mid-layer on the lower body as well.

Forget about bulky coats.  Wear an outer shell (over your base and insulation layers) to shed water and snow.  Layering will give you more versatility, depending on the weather and your activity.  Outerwear that is waterproof with increased breathability will be more adaptable and can help transfer moisture away from your body to keep you dry and protected from the elements.  Both jacket and pants are needed.  Gortex®, or similar waterproof/breathable material.  Jacket MUST have an integrated hood.  Flimsy “stow-away” nylon hoods are not adequate.  Full side-zip on pants are very helpful.

*Soft shell pants and jacket can be very appropriate on days when we are not expecting heavy snow or wet weather.  They provide wind and water protection while still allowing you to breath.

This crucial layer is often added when you stop for a break.  It helps to maintain your body temperature while you are resting and is essential for keeping you warm on those cold descents and during inconvenient breaks above tree line in high winds.  This layer is generally worn over your outermost layers

Camera

Hand/ toe warmers

Sunscreen/ lip balm

Thermos with hot drink

Sunglasses