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For
Climbing in winter it is recommended to have a stiff soled,
non-bendy B3 boot in either plastic or leather. For the mountaineering
and introductory course, a solid leather B2 boot is adequate.
Please check in a climbing shop before arrival. Boots can
be hired by prior arrangement. If hiring please check the
size you take at a climbing shop beforehand. One pair of thick
socks is adequate, but often an additional thinner pair is
more comfortable. Boots should not be very flexible or smooth
soled.
Crampons
should be ten or twelve pointers with front points. Clip-on
crampons are very easy to fit on some boots, whilst traditional
strap-on models are okay, but less easy to fit in cold windy
conditions. A more rigid twelve point crampon is better for
winter climbing. Anti-balling plates are recommended. Ask
for advice if you are unsure.
For
walking or general mountaineering an axe of 60/65cm is adequate.
Climbing requires a shorter hammer and axe (50cm) with either
an inclined (Banana) or drooped pick. A wrist loop should
be fitted to climbing tools.
Not required for the introductory course.
Please make sure the harness fits over thick clothing and
can be put on over boots and crampons. Adjustable leg-loops
are preferable for ease of fitting. The Black Diamond 'Bod'
harness is very good in this respect.
All courses please bring one along if you
can.
- Long sling and two large karabiners
(screwgate - HMS) Climbing and mountaineering courses.
- Belay plate & screwgate karabiner
(HMS) Climbing course only.
The trousers should have at least a knee
length zip enabling them to be fitted over boots/crampons.
This is an essential point to remember especially if you are
hiring plastic boots. Take your waterproofs into a shop which
sells plastic boots and try the boots on, then try and put
on your over trousers. Lightweight waterproofs are often inadequate
under severe winter conditions. A large hood with visor is
essential for the jacket.
A medium volume sac (50/55 litres) is best
for winter, with ice axe carrying loops. Please bring a strong
plastic rucsac liner to keep the contents dry.
A large person sized poly survival bag
is the minimum requirement, essential.
Essential for all courses.
Essential for all courses, plus spare battery
and bulbs.
To protect your eyes against the wind and
spindrift and in April, possibly the sun.
A small personal pack including medication
for blisters. Sunscreen cream for April courses.
(sheet 41 & 34- 1:50,000) Whistle/Watch
The map should be weather-proofed in a clear plastic bag or
covered with clear fablon (better) Essential.
For hot drinks and food on the hill, essential.
Warm woollen/fleece mitts (Dachsteins),
hat/balaclava/socks (plus spares). Two sets of thermals/fleece,
top and bottom and breeches/tracksuit trousers (not cotton).
Down/feather duvet jackets aren't much use in the damp conditions
sometimes experienced in Scotland!
Please indicate requirements before arrival
(especially footwear) and ask for advice if you are unsure
of your own equipment suitability (shell clothing is important)
. If you arrive with the wrong kit it could jeopardize your
safety and enjoyment on the course. Please ask for advice,
especially if you are unused to Scottish weather conditions.
Please keep this kit list if you book onto a course.
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