CHAPTER
3
Clothing and Equipment A very practical consequence of simplified alpinism is mobility. A light load makes an agile climber. Unencumbered, you can climb faster, your range is extended to longer climbs, and more time is free for work on difficult passages. YVON CHOUINARD
Climbers often think that the quantity of clothing and equipment is directly related to personal pleasure. Some climbers believe that equipment buys safety. Safety actually has more to do with experience and risk taking. Over-equipping can distract you from efficient mountain climbing and detract from the freedom and wildness of the sport. Layering is the key to suitable clothing for New Zealand’s diverse weather. Multiple thin items with zips provide versatility. To save weight, take only what you will wear plus minimal spares. Figure 3: Stormproof outerwear gives vital weather protection and improves survival capability.
Select your clothing and equipment carefully. Before you buy, compare catalogue specifications, read reviews, talk to retailers and ask your friends for advice.
CLOTHING OUTER LAYERS Parka Parkas should be windproof and waterproof. Three-layer micro porous material with a waterproof guarantee is comfortable, expensive, and waterproof for one or two seasons. You can apply re-proofing liquids but you need to do this once or twice each season.
Pants Shell pants should be windproof and waterproof. They should be micro porous with full-length side zips so that you can put them on over boots and crampons. Crotch zips are particularly useful. Shorts are often important for valley approaches.
Jersey or pullover Commonly, this is synthetic, e.g. fleece, although fine wool is an option. It is usually 100 or 200-weight with a high collar. Windproof properties can be an advantage.
Hats Do not underestimate the importance of hats. In hot snow basins, use a broad brimmed hat with a chin cord. A baseball cap with a dark colour under the peak and a scarf over the neck is effective. Take a balaclava or ski hat for cold conditions. 10
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