Alpine & Winter Gear
Here is the gear I use for Alpine and Snow backpacking
Backpack:
I need to carry more gear on snow trips so I need a bigger backpack.
Mountain Hardwear BMG 105
(Updated)
Volume: 105L (115L because I use a size large)
Size: Large
This is now my go to pack anytime there will be snow or ice. I love the outdry material of Mountain Hardwear packs. The pack is waterproof. I throw it in the snow, I hike in storms, and never worry about it getting wet. I also enjoy the large volume. I strap my ice axe and snow shoes to it with ease. It also has loops on the waist belt for quick draws and ice screws. There are also loops for when I pull a polk. Only regrets is that there are no side water bottle pockets.
JanSport Klamath 75
(No Longer in use)
Size: 77 liters/ 47oo cu in
Weight: 4lbs 7oz/ 2020g
I carry a JanSport 75 liter. I went with the JanSport Klamath 75 because it is a good bag for the money. There are better bags but not for the price.
On day hikes in Snow and Alpine summiting I carry a smaller external frame pack. I like the external frame because I can easily attach my crampons, ice axe, and snowshoes.
JanSport Scout
Size: 63 Liters/ 3850 cu in
Weight: 3lbs 110z/ 1673g
I use the JanSport Scout only because it was the first backpacking pack I owned. It was cheap and works well. It is very rugged, tough, and functional. There are lighter and better packs but this is the one I have.
Snowshoes:
MSR Lightning Ascent 25"
Weight: 3lbs 15oz/ 1786g
Ice Axe:
Black Diamond Raven Pro
Weight: 13oz/ 362g
Crampons:
Black Diamond Stinger Crampon
Weight: 2lbs 1oz/ 936g for the pair
I bought the stinger so I could use them on snow and ice but also use them for ice climbing. In reality I have only ice climbed twice but before this purchase I imagines myself doing it often. However these are still great crampons and have been able to handle anything I throw at them.
Marmot Crampon Bag
Weight: 7oz/ 198g
I know carrying a crampon bag is extra weight but I prefer to carry my crampons in a bag so they do not accidentally tear any of my backpacking gear. It would be awful if the crampons tour my down jacket, sleeping bag, or even backpack.
Boots:
Lowa Mountain Expert GTX Boot
Weight: 4lbs 10oz/ 2098g for the pair
Extras: has crampon mounting spots
Helmet:
A helmet is important because your brain is important. Anytime you are climbing you should wear a helmet. If it is icy enough to wear crampons you should probably be wearing a helmet. When it comes to helmets it is important to go light and breathable. It needs to be light especially if it is used to climb
Grivel Salamander Helmet
Weight: 13.6oz/ 386g
Sleeping Bag:
When there is snow out I use my Zero degree bag. It is hard to get a zero degree bag under 2lbs. Just try and get the lightest one you can afford.
I dont use a 4 season tent in the snow. 4 season tents are just too heavy and they are only necessary in arctic conditions. If you have a great sleeping bag a 3 season tent is all you will ever need.
Sierra Designs Cal 6
Temperature Rating: 0 degrees (Comfort rating 18 degrees)
Filling: 800 fill DriDown
Weight: 2lbs 5oz/ 1049g
Clothing:
Socks:
No matter how cold it is my feet sweat if I am hiking uphill with a pack on. I wear my regular hiking socks while I hike and then switch to my thicker mountaineering socks once I get to camp or if it gets too cold on my feet.
Smartwool PhD Socks
Smartwool Mountaineering Socks
Tip: Even if it is really cold out dont wear your base layer while you hike. No matter how cold it is if you are hiking uphill with a pack on you will sweat. If you sweat too much in your base layer they will be uncomfortable and get cold.
Base Layer:
Smartwool Base Layer Bottoms and Top
Jacket:
I like to use a down jacket that stuffs into its own pocket. It packs nicely that way but it can also be used as a pillow
Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket
Fill: 850 Down Fill
Weight: 7.2oz/ 205g
If you wear a shell over your down jacket it will lock in the warmth and protect you from wind chill.
Shell:
REI Elements Jacket
Weight: 16oz/ 454g