I need lots of new gear. First I thought I’d be in good shape with a lot of what I have from previous trips. Sure, the underwear, socks, and some of the inside layers will be fine. But I’m going to be helping the economy for this trip, big time, with new stuff.
First, the boots. An army may march on its stomach but a mountain climber starts with boots if they have any sense. Unfortunately they are very expensive…fortunately there aren’t all that many companies that make them.
It’s the gap between the 2013 and the 2014 stocks, so there are deals out there. I ordered the four different possibilities in two sizes each. Huge temporary hit to the credit card. Lots of clumping around the house. These boots are double plastic and only really work in the ice and snow with crampons on. They are almost like ski boots in stiffness and I can’t imagine hiking more than an hour or two in them as regular boots.
The winner: Koflach Arctis Expe. If I’m headfirst in a snowbank these electric yellow boots should make me easier to find. They’re the start of my gear locker downstairs in the mancave.
These suckers are warm. Inner removable insulated boot that even has reflective insoles to keep radiant heat in.