Working calculators
Layer System by TemperatureRight layering for your route\'s coldest expected temp. Rope Length by Route TypeRight rope length for your climbing objective.Guides
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Gear actually worth buying
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12-point cramponsPetzl Vasak and Black Diamond Sabretooth are the workhorses. Match binding type to your boot sole stiffness.
Ice axePetzl Sum'Tec and Black Diamond Raven are reliable all-around choices. Shaft length = your height minus 60cm.
Alpine harnessBlack Diamond Couloir and Petzl Hirundos are light enough to carry without noticing. Minimalist construction is correct.
Mountaineering bootsLa Sportiva Nepal Cube and Scarpa Phantom Tech are the high-end standard. B3 sole required for step-in crampons.
Dry-treated rope60m dry-treated 8.5-9.5mm covers most alpine routes. Dry treatment extends life in wet and snowy conditions.
Ice axePetzl Sum'Tec and Black Diamond Raven are reliable all-around choices. Shaft length = your height minus 60cm.
Alpine harnessBlack Diamond Couloir and Petzl Hirundos are light enough to carry without noticing. Minimalist construction is correct.
Mountaineering bootsLa Sportiva Nepal Cube and Scarpa Phantom Tech are the high-end standard. B3 sole required for step-in crampons.
Dry-treated rope60m dry-treated 8.5-9.5mm covers most alpine routes. Dry treatment extends life in wet and snowy conditions.