Trailblazer’s Toolkit: Gear Up For Alpine Excellence

Imagine, you’re looking ahead at the majestic mountain peaks surrounding you, and you can’t wait to tackle them. But before you begin your alpine journey, you need to make sure you have the right gear in your toolkit! From layering basics, to specialized gear, here’s what you need to reach—and enjoy—the summits.

Clothing Essentials

When you’re readying the journey of a lifetime, layering is paramount. And in the alpine, that layering often has to come together in moments when your surrounding temperatures might be constantly changing. Whether you’re alpine climbing, mountaineering, or peak-bagging, you should have an ultraviolet (UPF) protective main shell, a base-layer, a medium- or mid-weight fleece, and a warm insulator jacket. When tackling the great outdoors, you’ll need waterproof, breathable pants, plus a warm hat, gloves, and a buff.

Equipment Basics

A sturdy backpack is the first item on your alpine list: something that’ll both meet your trail needs, as well as provide comfort during your trek. Be sure the capacity meets your day or overnight needs. When on the trail, hiking poles can provide balance and traction, plus take some of the stress off your knees and ankles. Additionally, you’ll need a headlamp for any activities you’ll be doing in the early morning or evening hours.

Specialized Gear

From crampons and an ice axe to a helmet and gear-specific boots, if you’ll be tackling more specialized trails and higher-grade alpine activities, you’ll need to have some additional specific-to-alpine pieces in your bag of tricks. Depending on the time of year, and the terrain you’ll be tackling, be sure to bring a sleeping bag and tent—or just a bivy and tarp for fast-and-light overnight missions. Last but not least, some extra sunscreen and lip balm!

Happy Trails

The Alps are a trailblazer’s paradise, and with the right gear you’ll soon be able to enjoy its peaks and valleys in comfort and safety. Take the time to plan and prepare the right alpine toolkit for your needs—and happy trails!