• Climbing harness
• Crampon compatible mountaineering boots
• Crampons
• Ice Screws
• Ice axe
• Half ropes
• Quick draws
• Screwgate carabiner, Wrench/Allen Key,
• Daisy chain
• Belay/Rappel device

Packing List Ice climbing: further equipment

• Climbing helmet
• Climbing backpack
• Waterproof gloves
• Weatherproof jacket, hard shell, rain jacket
• Waterproof pants
• Thermal underwear/ base layers
• Fleece
• Sling, station sling, accessory cord
• Water bottle
• Hydration system
• Energy Bars
• Climbing guide
• Warm socks
• Sunglasses
• Bivouac sack
• First Aid Kit
• Mobile phone

 Ice climbing is a discipline of alpine climbing and can only be done in the great outdoors. This means sound knowledge on safety techniques must be adhered to: Winter in particular, can be hazardous in alpine terrain – avalanches for example need to be properly assessed with expertise, knowledge and experience. Climbers gear and equipment, such as waterproof clothing, gloves, ice axes, crampons, ice screws and belay equipment must be absolutely reliable.

When ice climbing, safety comes first. The belay is similar to that of alpine climbing. For belaying or rappelling, a figure eight or a tube are recommended – dynamic backup when ice climbing is advantageous! Two half ropes (also known as a double rope)  provide security reserves and enough length when a quick retreat may be necessary e.g in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. In the event of a fall and especially in the case of falling chunks of ice, a climbing helmet (available also with a visor) is recommended. Last but not least, functional and warm clothing is recommended for ice climbing.

During the climb, it can get rather warm but as soon as you’re the one belaying, it can cool down in no time. The appropriate functional clothing and also change of clothing should be considered. Ice climbers swear by merino wool underwear and base layers that keep you cosy warm even under wet and sweaty conditions. Refer to ice climbing literature for basic information and before taking that first step, taking a course in ice climbing should be on the list….once that’s been ticked off, you can refer to our packing list for ice climbing!