Equipment List

Below is the list of gear that you are expected to have for the course modules. There is also a Printable PDF version available for download.

Note that some of the items listed are optional but highly recommended. There are gear stores in Squamish, Whistler and Vancouver should you require last minute items. If you do not have some equipment such as touring skis or avalanche rescue gear (winter module), it can be rented in Whistler, but you will be expected to do this in advance of the course, or on your own time.

If you feel that something is missing from this list, please do not hesitate to contact the course director for clarification.

If you rent gear, please ensure it fits comfortably, is in good working order and that you are familiar with how to operate it.

30-40L day pack (1)

60-80 L backpack or duffle (1)

Big enough to hold all gear for the trip plus some extra communal gear. Note: Multiple smaller bags are easier to load than one large bag for helicopter flights.

Credit Card

Base layers top & bottom

Climbing/hiking pants –

Nylon, fleece or schoeller (1)

Fleece

Puffy, standby Puffy parka (1)

Outer layer waterproof jacket with hood

Gore-tex style or similar

Outer layer waterproof pants

Gore-tex style or similar

Warm touque (1)

Wool or fleece

Waterproof gloves or mitts (2)

Gloves are better for rope handling

Sun hat or baseball cap(1)

Socks (2-3)

Wool or synthetic blend

Lightweight runners (1)

Booties/shoes for the hut (1)

You can also use your runners

Gaiters (1)

Insect repellent

There will be 1 bottle for group

Sunglasses

Sunscreen

Water bottle / hydration system (1)

Minimum 1 L

Thermos for hot drinks (1) OPTIONAL

Carbohydrate material

Knife

A Swiss army style or multitool

Waterproof field notebook and pencil(s)

i.e. Write-In-The-Rain

Camera, cell phone etc.

Headlamp with extra batteries

Guides tarp (1)

Emergency shelter

First aid kit (1)

Include what you would take for a multi day backcountry trip. Please note: You will be assessed on the contents of your kit

UIAA List of Certified Equipment

Mountaineering boots SUMMER MODULE

Full leather or plastic mountaineering boots. If leather, they should be well broken in and waterproofed

Climbing shoes SUMMER MODULE

Climbing harness

belay device (1)

chalk bag OPTIONAL SUMMER MODULE

locking carabiners (3)

personal prusik (1)

6/7mm perlon cord, 1.25 m in length*

single length sling/runners (1-2)OPTIONAL

~24” length

Personal guide slings* (2)

5 m of 6/7mm tubular webbing, minimum 22 kN strength

Ice screws (1-2) SUMMER MODULE

Minimum 15 cm length

Simple or prusik minding pulley OPTIONAL

UIAA certified climbing helmet SUMMER MODULE

General mountaineering ice axe SUMMER MODULE

B rated aluminum ok

Crampons SUMMER MODULE

To fit on mountaineering boots. Aluminum is OK if in good condition

Closed cell foam pad

To sit on or for use in first aid scenarios

Walking pole(s) OPTIONAL
SUMMER MODULE

*Note: For prusik to bite on a rope you need a 2mm difference between prusik and rope diameter. 7mm diameter cord is standard for large diameter ropes, 6mm for smaller sizes. Keep in mind that there is a strength limitation with 6mm cord.

Professional style compass (1)

With sighting mirror such as this one.

Altimeter

A watch is adequate.

GPS Receiver OPTIONAL

Maps*:
There are different maps for the different modules.

*Note: Maps are subject to change if we have a last minute change of venue due to weather or logistics. Please check with us closer to the date of the course.