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The exact gear you buy, should be tailored to coldest temperatures that you plan to encounter.
Proper gear choices will dramacically increase your warmth, comfort, and enjoyment.
So remember to:
Take your time, make sure you do some research before making any purchase. Your gear is an investment,
and proper equipment can be expensive, simply take it one piece at a time. Take care of your equipment
soon after every outing, good gear maintenence habits will keep your stuff looking new, and working great for many years!
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Winter Gear Guide
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Important!
Please remember that experience and common sense, are your most important tools while in the mountains in the winter!
I've done a lot of winter hiking, and this is a list of the gear that I have confidence in, and use every time I go out.
Good gear is important, but it is certainly no replacement for experience. Please use your head, and be careful!
Down sleeping bag
This is your ultimate protection from the cold. Down bags are expensive and not absolutely essential, but there is no lighter or warmer bag out there.
I'd suggest a bag rated to zero or lower. In my experience, you should never trust the temp rating on a synthetic bag.
Air filled bedroll
Your sleeping bag provides no insulation between you and the ground, so a good bedroll is very important. Air filled
bedrolls 1" or thicker provide the best insulation for winter camping.
Windproof, waterproof shell
You'll want a jacket and pants that are windproof, waterproof, and they MUST also be breathable. Breathable Gore-Tex type fabrics
are key, they help prevent moisture buildup inside, which can make you wet and cold.
Waterproof boots
Plastic or rubber shell boots are best, as they shed snow and water. Leather shell Gore-Tex boots are ok, but leather
absorbs water while hiking, and overnight they'll sometimes freeze solid.
Hat, Gloves, Mittens
Any non-cotton winter hat will do, remember that wool can be very itchy. One pair of thin or midweight non-cotton gloves covered by a pair of
wind and waterproof non-insulated mittens (Gore-Tex or similar). Mittens are very warm because they keep your fingers
together, this will keep your hands warm in almost any weather.
More soon ...
This list is not finished, please check back soon!
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