Mountaineering clothing

How to Dress for Mountaineering?

The alpinist’s outfit, like the equipment, varies greatly depending on the season. Mountaineering clothing is designed to be compatible with the use of your gear. For example, your jacket should be compatible with wearing your mountaineering harness, which is likely loaded with slings and carabiners. Your jacket should have a hood compatible with wearing a mountaineering helmet.

For winter mountaineering, the importance of choosing the right clothing is even more evident. Sub-zero temperatures, wind, bad weather, and snow –at altitude, the weather can be particularly harsh, dangerous, and even deadly.

Additionally, mountaineering clothing must meet other essential criteria. Firstly, it must be robust, as you climb in an environment that can be very challenging. It needs to resist abrasion from contact with rocks. Bear in mind that your mountaineering outfit will be subjected to wear and tear from your equipment. For instance, your trousers may be exposed to crampon spikes. In addition, your outfit must offer a great range of motion.

Three-Layer System

As with other winter sports and mountain clothing in general, it is good practice to apply the principle of three layers.

Technical Base Layer

The base layer is in direct contact with the skin. Its main role is to wick moisture away from the body to maintain comfort and avoid the accumulation of sweat. Synthetic materials like polyester or natural fibres like merino wool are often used for this layer because they wick moisture well and retain heat even when wet.

Insulating Second/Mid Layer: Keeping Warm in Extreme Weather

The mid-layer’s function is to provide additional thermal insulation. It retains body heat to keep you warm. In mountaineering, down jackets or jackets made of synthetic materials are common options for this layer. The thermal insulation capacity of this garment will depend on the weather conditions and the temperature expected during your outing in the mountains. Preparing and knowing the current conditions up there will help you choose an appropriate insulating layer.

Waterproof Jacket

Finally, a hardshell outer layer, which is waterproof and breathable, protects you from the elements while allowing perspiration to escape. This outer layer will have a high-performance membrane, such as the renowned Gore-Tex membrane, offering a high level of protection against snow and rain, while letting your skin breathe.

What Trousers for Winter Mountaineering?

For winter mountaineering, it is crucial to choose trousers that offer warmth, weather protection, and good freedom of movement. Here are some features to look for in winter mountaineering trousers:

Waterproofness and Wind Resistance: Choose trousers made of waterproof and wind-resistant materials, such as Gore-Tex or other similar technical fabrics. This will protect you from slush, rain, and strong winds, while ensuring breathability to wick away sweat.

Thermal Insulation: Choose insulated trousers to protect yourself from the extreme cold encountered in the mountains. Make sure the insulation is warm enough for the winter conditions you will face.

Breathability: While warmth is important, it is also essential that the trousers are breathable to wick away sweat during physical exertion. Ventilation zips can be useful for regulating body temperature when you climb in altitude or when weather conditions change.

Durability and Reinforced Protection: Winter mountaineering trousers must be durable and abrasion-resistant to withstand harsh mountain conditions. The trousers listed on Glisshop provide enhanced protection against sharp rocks and crampons.

Freedom of Movement: Ensure that the trousers feature a fit and design that allow good freedom of movement for climbing and technical movements in alpine terrain. Articulated knees and stretch zones can be useful features for facilitating mobility.

Compatibility with Technical Equipment: Make sure the trousers are compatible with your gear, such as crampons and gaiters. Some models have leg zips for easy crampon adjustment, as well as loops to attach gaiters and prevent snow from entering your boots.

Investing in quality gear will ensure your comfort and safety in extreme mountain weather conditions.

Men or Women: Your Gear is at Glisshop

On our online shop, you will find all the mountaineering gear from leading brands. If you need help to choose your equipment, don’t hesitate to contact our staff via email, phone, or chat. You will benefit from the advice of our experts, who will explain everything you need to know about mountaineering clothing and footwear – their specifications, usage, and important points to consider before making your purchase.