🏔️ Mountaineering
Layer System by Temperature
Right layering for your route\'s coldest expected temp.
Gear actually worth buying
Top picks for mountaineering. We earn a small commission on eBay purchases — here's how that works.
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.