Kit lists

A comfortable and well fitting rock climbing harness, with at least 2 gear loops on each side. Make sure that it fits when wearing multiple layers of clothing.

A comfortable, lightweight helmet rated for rock climbing. Make sure that you can fit a wool hat under it for chilly days.  The Petzl Meteor is a good example.

A chalk bag with chalk, with webbing or cord belt.

A pair of climbing shoes. Avoid aggressively down-toed designs, and pick a pair that you can wear for longer periods without too much discomfort.

A simple belay device, such as the Petzl Verso,  that can be used with double ropes. Paired with a HMS screw gate carabiner.

Two HMS screw gate carabiners and a 120cm sling, used for attaching to belays and for abseiling. The Edelrid Aramid slings are ideal for this.

Stiff, lightweight B2 mountaineering boots which are compatible with a crampon. Make sure that they fit well and that you've walked in them before your trip.

A C2-rated general mountaineering crampon with 12 points. The Petzl Vasak is our go to design for approaching alpine rock climbs.

A classic mountaineering axe with a straight shaft and a curved pick, such as the Petzl Summit. Avoid very technical ice climbing tools, as these are harder to use on moderate terrain.

A 30 to 40 litre rucksack which is comfortable to climb with. Simple, light weight designs such as the Patagonia Ascentionist are ideal. 

A pair of good quality sun glasses are ideal. For alpine trips these need to be Category 4 rated for travelling on glaciers. 

A small tube of sun screen and SPF lip salve, kept in the top pocket of your rucksack.

Sturdy approach shoes with grippy rubber, for scrambling to the base of routes.

Light leather gloves for scrambling and abseiling. 

A sun hat and a wool hat for keeping you cool or warm.

A simple head torch. We recommend one of the rechargeable units such as the Petzl Tikka Core.