What are /r/Mountaineering's favorite Products & Services?

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Absolutely not. At most they help strengthen the diaphragm, at the worst, they do nothing and limit your workout capacity. They make it harder to breathe but the air you're still breathing has exactly the same ppO2 as the atmosphere you're in.

By elevation training what are you asking about? How to get fit so when you get to altitude you minimize risk of AMS? If so then I hate to break it to you, but there is nothing "specific" you can do outside of somehow finding a hypoxic tent to work out in or living at altitude. The general approach to fitness for the mountains is a combination of strength and conditioning. The go to textbook for this is Training for the New Alpinism.

The Peak Design Clip system was a lifesaver for me: link

The 2018 Accidents in North American Climbing put out by the American Alpine Club goes over quickly, efficiently, and effectively protecting 4th class and low 5th class climbs.

I've roped up for an easy and comfortable 5.easy slab route in Yosemite, and I'm not ashamed to say that. From the slings left from previous rappels, other people have too.

Insert something about old and bold climbers here.

John Harlin was obsessed with the Eiger. You can learn a lot and the book is well written: https://www.amazon.com/Straight-Up-Life-Death-Harlin/dp/B0006BU5K8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1529281223&sr=8-1&keywords=straight+up+ramsey&dpID=51tee11nOBL&preST=_SY344_BO1,204,203,200_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Note that he dies at the end. Get a bit used to that if reading climbing books.

The Eiger is a highly respected mountain.

Gorgeous pictures and keep up the adventures. I loved James’ book to explore the non-14ers in Colorado. Peakbagger mobile app and website is another great way to learn about options and read trip reports and download tracks.

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Summit-Hikes-Colorado-Little-Known/dp/089997712X

Definitely remember the ice ax when going up peaks with lingering snow fields as some of them can get icy instead of this nice soft powder. Practice self arrest occasionally on slopes with safe run outs since you might only have one chance to slow down before the speed gets so fast that you are getting completely out of control.

I've now read more than I ever thought I would about the word alpine, and I'm more confused than ever. I always thought that "alpine" (no capitalization) was an adjective for "related to high-elevation mountains", and "Alpine" (capitalized) was an adjective for "related to the Alps". This convention is supported by dictionary.com's definitions: http://www.dictionary.com/browse/alpine

But according to Merriam-Webster sometimes people just capitalize the term willy-nilly? http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alpine

Maybe this is a British english vs American english thing?

Deep Survival -- an informative read of when things go wrong in the wilderness and how the survivors make it out alive. It shines upon the personalities and characteristics that tend to have the highest survival rate by analyzing the craziest stories of people that have lived and also sometimes died. Such a good read in fact that it's the only book that could hold my attention for the last 4 years. ^((I don't really like to read))

ascending the chute up to Mt Whitney trail crest

Thanks for your interest, I love talking about Everest... You really might enjoy my podcast, several of the episodes have been devoted to Everest. Episode 20 is about the commercialization of Everest, my experience on the Mallory expedition in 1999, as well as thoughts on the loss of life, particularly with the hardworking Sherpa: https://www.buzzsprout.com/268133/1612240-episode-20-commercialization-of-everest-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly .

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You can also find me on Instagram and FB

When I lived in Provo, summitpost was my go to for the climbs I did. It seemed detailed enough for the more popular climbs. There is a book out there but I don't know anything about it.

https://www.amazon.com/Wasatch-Eleveners-Hiking-Climbing-Mountains/dp/0874808642

Sure. The Marmot precip could be a good choice - you can usually find one on sale for ~$75 or so. Similar jackets by Patagonia (Torrentshell) and Outdoor Research (Revel) would also work great.

For a puffy, you need to decide between down and synthetic. There are pros and cons of each, I'm not going to go into it here. For down, I think the Montbell Alpine light would be a good, inexpensive choice. For synthetic, the Montbell Thermawrap Guide would probably be a great choice. The Thermawrap Pro would also work - it'll be lighter but less warm.

I also think it would be worth your while to learn about layering for mountaineering in general. Check this link - though I think they're 'overdressed' for most scenarios https://www.joomag.com/magazine/rmi-and-whittaker-mountaineering-gear-guides-rainier-four-day-summit-climb/0920513001383149448

We used this book to help plan our Switzerland vacation. Thought it was great. 100 Hut Walks in the Alps

Have a wonderful time, it's a beautiful place!!

Since weight isn't your biggest concern, I have a Klymit insulated static V and while not the lightest it's very reasonably priced compared to an Xtherm and comfortable at 2.5" thick. Currently going for $52 on Amazon, R value 4.4 and 25 oz, or the 'lite' version which is 19 oz and going for $75

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kcBwyb9FMZQG5

This.

Also, you can get those donut shaped things for corns and put them on the blister so the hole is where the blister is. or make one out of moleskin. Not sure how well it'll work on you toe.

Use a sock liner with your socks and keep that sand out of your shoes (use a dust gaiter). And keep as dry as possible. Change socks if needed. Some people use baby powder.

I am referring to the shorter, 170 km, tour. There are variants, but as for the snow, you are crossing 2500 meters either way.

In general in Switzerland that is the case for camping yes. I think the actual rule is that you are above 2500 meters.

Just checked and it looks like the french are actually very specific about a ban on this circuit, there is a 560 euro fine 😞 . I would doubt that you would get caught in october, though. There are what look to be authorized sites, I have added a link to a list below.

http://www.autourdumontblanc.com/en/index.cfm/general-conditions/free-camping-forbidden.html

http://wikitravel.org/en/Tour_du_Mont_Blanc

You are correct! I did a reverse image search and came back with this: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/scenic-view-road-canadian-rockies-on-690147250?src=Zyv-DOpveNmis4_JJw6VPw-1-6

Scenic view of the road and canadian rockies on Icefields Parkway. It travels through Banff and Jasper National Parks and offers spectacular views of the Rocky mountains.

For Mallory and Irvine sleuths and Everest buffs alike you might have an interest in a podcast episode of mine called Commercialization of Everest, The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. I was high altitude cameraman on the 1999 Mallory and Irvine expedition that discovered George Mallory. The discovery changed the trajectory of my career as a cameraman and inspirational speaker. With two expeditions to the south side of Everest in 2014 and 2016 (summited in 2016), I returned to the north in 2019 with National Geographic. The incredible film, podcast, feature article and book will be released in 2020. Here's a link to the Baker Street with Thom Pollard podcast, which focuses on the commercialization of Everest, the discovery of George Mallory, and more, using excerpts from a panel discussion that I participated in at the Boston Museum of Science in 2017: https://www.buzzsprout.com/268133/1612240-episode-20-commercialization-of-everest-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly?fbclid=IwAR2p9zP94QmDL66VeWDB91rk5xikZsxirLBONa2Cy4qgv0cZ8hZNYRbAUeY PHOTO: from '99 expedition, Andy Politz descending in the alpenglow at 26,000'.

A very unfortunate situation indeed, the recent loss of lives on the Everest.

The report is developed using Power BI https://powerbi.microsoft.com/en-us/ with data from Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_deaths_on_eight-thousanders

Should we add Summit Fever/Overcrowding to the cause of death?

There's a book coming out in a couple weeks that might interest you then, if you're interested in the naming and early history, called "The Hunt for Mount Everest".

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1529366623/

Partners are always great in the “winter” because the stuff gets real if you run into problems. There usually is a trip advertised each weekend on 14ers.com that are good if you have the strength to keep up as they won’t babysit a fat noob, which obviously you aren’t.

If you are going in the summer, this is the best book for finding amazing hikes. Worth the money. Solo is okay if you have a good cell phone GPS app so you can record tracks and get back down if something goes wrong. https://www.amazon.com/Best-Summit-Hikes-Colorado-Little-Known/dp/0899974082

Critical summer gear list: Running shoes (boots are unneeded if you have strong ankles), Pufffy jacket, Rain jacket, Headlight, Cell phone with GPS app like peakbagger, Power bank, Lighter. Water bottle. Hat or helmet for class 3+ peaks Ice axe and microspikes if there is any chance to get on steep snow.

Everything are nice to haves instead of must haves.

To add to your tape thing, I've done this for my winter hiking boots and at times regular runners when needing to break them in, etc. I have found that Leukotape is the best, stuff sticks like crazy, stays on forever(I've left it on for 3+ days w/hiking w/o issue), and is mostly waterproof. For me at least it generally prevents or stops those heal blisters from forming.

My only gripe with it is that the glue does not work well in the cold. So I either need to apply in the car or warm up a section of tape on the trail. Not a big deal and happens to most tapes below 20F.

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Another trick is to cut off useful sized strips and put them onto some other sticker paper(say from stamps etc) and keep those in your first aid kit. Then you don't have to carry the entire roll.

The Suunto devices have really appealed to me, but I haven't developed the "need" to get one yet (just a very erect "want"). probably because I've been so burned by Garmin. I've been navigating and taking tracks with devices since early 2000s with a Garmin foretrex 201. then a 305, then later a 210... and I can tell you, that despite my best efforts to like their devices... I hate Garmin products now. every single one of those devices was crap for battery life (never met advertised results, and deteriorated quickly to short duration and random shutdowns, often leaving me with 1/2 a track. Last year, my significant othe got a 620 (against my recommendation) and she used it three times for running, before getting so frustrated with the random freezes, and twitchy, non-responsive UI, that she never used it again, saying "get that thing out of my sight." Never again, Garmin. Usually, I can tolerate the bad user experience, if the function (logging, navi, etc) is still happening. but those unnoticed freezes and 3 hour battery durations, are just deal-breakers... on top of it's horrible hardware interface, there is a terrible software web app, that will leave you completely frustrated, too. fuck Garmin.

That said... I've found a great solution (for me). Bluetooth HRM like Wahoo that will pair with your phone. I carry my android phone on trips with excellent, configurable mapping/navi/tracking/fitness app called Locus Pro and I have all the stuff I need, including offline maps, navi, configurable battery drain (airplane mode and smart gps usage), and very clean UX. So, i don't have to buy the current latest crap that Garmin is selling.

Bottom line, extend your phone. or buy a Suunto.

Still highly recommend acquiring "Mountaineering: Freedom of the Hills". Read the parts that interest you first, and then eventually, read the whole thing. The book is 600 pages long and will teach you safety and skills. https://smile.amazon.com/Mountaineering-Freedom-Hills-Mountaineers/dp/1680510045/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2N2B4Y2MS4FF0&keywords=mountaineering+freedom+of+the+hills&qid=1664170043&sprefix=mountaineering%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-1

Mountains are so personal, just like girlfriends. Find one that matches your dreams. Lots of gorgeous peaks out their of all shapes and sizes. HYOH.

A couple good resources to pick your “tinder” match: 14ers.com (free)

James’ book (cheap): https://www.amazon.com/Best-Summit-Hikes-Colorado-Little-Known/dp/0899974082

Rooting for you bro! Post pics after your trip.

Luggage straps are awesome. Something cheap and light like these:

https://www.amazon.com/Ayaport-Lashing-Buckles-Adjustable-Packing/dp/B09DCB6QC7/ref=mp_s_a_1_24?crid=TFSUNZNAG2M6&keywords=3%2F4%E2%80%9D%2Bluggage%2Bstraps&qid=1661701650&sprefix=3%2F4%2Bluggage%2Bstraps%2Caps%2C123&sr=8-24&th...

No Picnic on Mount Kenya: The Story of Three POWs' Escape to Adventure

In the shadow of Mount Kenya, surrounded by the forests and creatures of the savannah, life drags interminably for the inmates of POW Camp 354, captured in Africa during World War II. Confined to an endless cycle of boredom and frustration, one prisoner realizes he can bear it no longer. When the clouds covering Mount Kenya part one morning to reveal its towering peaks for the first time, Felice Benuzzi is transfixed. The tedium of camp life is broken by the beginnings of a sudden idea--an outrageous, dangerous, brilliant idea. Not many people would break out of a POW camp and trek for days across perilous terrain before climbing the north face of Mount Kenya with improvised equipment, meager rations, and a picture of the mountain on a tin of beef as their most accurate guide. Fewer still would break back into the camp on their return. This is the remarkable story of three such men--a powerful testament to the human spirit of rebellion and adventure--reissued in a deluxe edition featuring Benuzzi's own watercolor paintings of the expedition and a final chapter that has never before appeared in English.

Hyke and Byke has good reviews if you aren’t chubby and are on a budget. Western Mountaineering is where to go if you know this will be with you for a couple decades as their quality is unsurpassed.

https://www.amazon.com/Goose-Down-Ultralight-Mummy-Backpacking-Sleeping-Bag-0-15-30-Degree/dp/B06XRLQ3SB/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=hyke+and+byke&qid=1653885831&sr=8-3

lol these comments are so salty.

Go pick up Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills. This book is going to give you a LOT of detail on gear and how to use it, but it's only theoretical. You need to find someone with more experience than you, be it a formal teacher, or a guided climb, or someone from a local climbing group to show you how to do everything in practice.

Instead of double socking, use Leukotape next time. I tape up before every big climb/hike: https://www.amazon.com/BSN-Medical-BEI076168-Leukotape-Sports/dp/B07KB5KSB2

Web developer here, based in a very dark office in Edinburgh, Scotland, where we get 8 hours of sunlight a day at this time of year. Fun fact: Edinburgh is further north than Moscow, Copenhagen, and Labrador City. Web dev is fine, but I'd certainly like to spend more time exercising outdoors. I've been thinking about getting on the outdoor-qualifications ladder for some time, and might actually do so this year - I've got something like 5x the required number of Quality Mountain Days logged for my basic Mountain Leader certificate, so I think it's about time I did the training and took the exam!

I have these ones: https://www.amazon.com/Julbo-Colorado-Mountain-Sunglasses-Spectron/dp/B001O0DN4K they work great, but they are out of stock here. To me they do everything I would want glacier glasses to do (category 4 lenses) and were like 40-50 dollars.

I assume your English is nearly perfect since you are from the Netherlands. If you want to enjoy peaks in the United States, it is easy to fly to Denver, rent a car, and spend a couple weeks in the Colorado Rockies. July and August are great months with minimal snow on the peaks. No glaciers so you don’t need technical skills. Plenty of free places to sleep in the forests. The main thing you need for safety is a good GPS app like Gaia or Peakbagger so you can backtrack down to your car if the weather turns bad.

A few resources to see options in Colorado.

https://www.14ers.com/php14ers/14ers.php

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Summit-Hikes-Colorado-Little-Known/dp/0899974082

If you want bigger objectives, Chile and Argentina have 6000m peaks that can be done in December-February months. Examples include Marmolejo, Aconcagua, Ojos, and Mercedario. If you are in good shape you can do 6x6000m peaks in 3-4 weeks.

Not sure about OPs gloves, I didn’t watch the video too closely but here are the ones that I use. They’re fully dipped along the whole hand. My only complaint is when you sweat in them it can sometimes be hard to dry them out.

https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Waterproof-Breathable-Technology-Insulation/dp/B015WU52MI/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?keywords=showa+gloves&qid=1648518085&sr=8-11

just FYI--washington and the presi's are getting 2 feet of snow. Might hamper a traverse quite a bit https://www.wunderground.com/weather/us/nh/mount-washington

It seems like you have more of a question about hiking. There are a bunch of mountains in Oregon and you should pick stuff near you. There are plenty of hiking websites and guidebooks that can suggest options appropriate for your location and desired difficulty.

Black Butte is a popular hiking summit in Central Oregon that may or may not be convenient to you, isn't too difficult, and has a great view. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/black-butte-trail

Noted. We were just out in the Tetons on about 65% grade with our microspikes and hiking poles, and it was a little questionable but we never felt unsafe. We had a really deep, solid snow cover to work with there though. I'll talk it over with everyone in the group and see if we want to save money and risk having to turn back early/not be able to finish, or shell out the dough and possibly not need the gear. I'd lean towards the second option, as I want the gear anyway, but I'm not sure I can sell my wife, brother-in-law, and his girlfriend on the same train of thought. We shall see. Either way, I appreciate your input!

Also to be clear, is this the trail you're talking about?

Depends on your budget/time/travel plans. Switzerland can get expensive. Huts, food, trains, gas if you're using a car... Austria, and Italy have a lot to offer for less cost, but nothing beats the beauty of the swiss alps...

In terms of hikes:

I think the roundtour of Säntis from Wasserauen is beautiful and a good conditioning hike (if you skip all the cable cars it's 1740m up and down and about 24 km https://www.komoot.com/tour/227821264?ref=atd) you can of course shorten via various cable cars. Warning, lots of tourists at the top of Säntis.

Everything along the via alpina is great, depending on the particular route you will have lots of tourists or none.

If you're looking for more day hikes I can give some other gpx tracks.

As for mountaineering tours PD+ or easier:

Weissmies - there's a gondola practically directly to the hut. The tour is easy, depending on the time of the year the crevasses at the lower portion of the glacier can be quite big and require some navigating, but nothing technically hard. From the same hut you can also do the Lagginhorn "normal way"

Dreiländerspitze and/or Piz Buin - both of the "normal ways" are from the Wiesbadener hut. So you can do two without having to travel between places.

It doesn't sound like you're headed to the west side of Switzerland so I'll skip around there.

> I can still slightly wiggle my toes wearing mountaineering socks

What socks are we talking here? If I wore the monstrosities marketed as mountaineering socks no boot would fit me. They make nice sleep socks.

How do they fit with a standard mid weight hiking sock?

They're not gonna break in.

If you don't fit the Scarpas with normal socks, you can fill out the heel in the Sporty's with something like this.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U9UG4QA/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_6NRE4A94DSEX3CMD9KNE

Just make sure your toes don't hit (at all) when you kick.

A Climber’s Guide to Glacier National Park by J Gordon Edwards. 14 hikes later, created a foundation such that the rest is history.

Thank you for the in-depth reply. I’ve found some 3-5 mile hikes in the cat skills.

Growing up I’ve hiked this trail a crazy amount of times. It’s rated as difficult but I see people bring little kids and dogs all the time so I’m wondering if i could take on some trails rated as difficult as well. Here is the trail.

Check out this trail on AllTrails. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-jersey/mount-tammany-red-dot-and-blue-dot-loop-trail

Do you have any links for overnight camping tips and such? It’s something my girlfriend and I want to get into especially for when we go to Yosemite or Yellowstone for the summer.

You're very welcome. If anyone is reading this thread and wants to learn about the Mallory discovery and my experience filming it, here is a podcast all about the commercialization of Everest, the discovery of Mallory and the good the bad and the ugly of Everest: https://www.buzzsprout.com/268133/1612240

The Boardman Tasker Omnibus.

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This is a collection of writings from Peter Boardman and Joe Tasker, some of the original mountaineers to push for alpine style of climbing. I thought they were great story tellers. Definitely made me feel like I was there watching things unfold.

I tried to ask, and apparently it is somewhere between Louisiana, Florida and Puerto Rico.

Thinking it is this : https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/mount-san-antonio-mount-baldy-notch-trail

It isn’t that difficult to have enough clothes to survive -70 degree temperatures, especially if you can keep your hands in your pockets. Down suit. Face covered in a mask. Triple layer insulated boots.

The challenge on Denali is that the jet stream blasts the upper mountain most of the days. Trying to walk up or down the Autobahn while it is being blasted by 100 mph winds is not possible.

https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/climbing/lonnie-dupre-just-solo-summited-denali-thats-huge-deal/

https://www.amazon.com/Minus-148-Degrees-Winter-McKinley/dp/0898866871

Apparently this book, Only Two for Everest is a very good read. May be more historical than technical though. Haven’t read it myself, it’s been on my wish list since reading reviews of it.

Ah sorry just seeing this. This is just some random thing marketed to (I'm assuming women) who want to be pale on Amazon. This isn't it but its almost exactly the same thing. Hooks over your ears and around your neck. I thought I would hate it but the fact there is a full vent over your mouth/nose keeps your glasses from fogging and makes breathing quite easy.

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https://www.amazon.com/Coolibar-UPF-Layered-Mask-Protective/dp/B07MQ6GQYF/ref=sr\_1\_15?dchild=1&keywords=face+mask+for+sun+protection&qid=1630523616&sr=8-15

The Chinese medicated patches are amazing. Probably has stuff not legal in the United States, which is why they work well:

Example: https://www.amazon.com/Relieving-Patches-Medicine-Capsicum-Medications/dp/B077ZMB6SY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=chinese+herbal+patches+for+pain&qid=1630443415&sr=8-2

Its not a toxic community. Its not because he's a beginner. Its the attitude of not taking responsibility and than basically bragging about it and not caring that those decisions he made put other peoples lives at risk needlessly. There's nothing to be encouraged about that. This is what you shouldn't do.

If you want to learn about mountaineering and you cant find a group like mountaineers (seattle based) or a group that in your area or even if you can I'd get this book. Its basically the bible for mountaineering.

https://www.amazon.com/Mountaineering-Freedom-Hills-8th-Mountaineers/dp/1594851387

550 parachord can hold 550 pounds of static load. You wouldn’t want to rappel or lead climb on it, but it is great for setting up hand lines or belaying people across moderate angle slopes where you don’t expect actual falls, just slips where a bit of protection prevents an actual fall from happening. You can easily carry 50’ without noticing the weight.

There are even thinner options to head down to 2mm diameter if you are a gram weenie and need a one ounce option. The stuff has lots of caveats but can be better than nothing in a pinch. Come to an icy moderate snow crossing and this stuff will be just fine as it would not possibly experience even 100# of force.

https://www.amazon.com/PARACORD-PLANET-Dyneema-Speed-Lace/dp/B07HCQ5D15/ref=pd_aw_sbs_5/137-5472023-7878417?pd_rd_w=dQDBS&pf_rd_p=c3ce9eb5-51ee-4d26-9fe8-b94b0ae2e178&pf_rd_r=9BVKE8346MR83HZ6NNKV&pd_rd_r=e7f61102-1522-4519-9094-8d7573c...

If you need to go much beyond that for strength, you are looking at 8mm x30m rope that weighs a couple of pounds. At that point you need to start getting professional training on anchors, climbing, and rappelling. I wouldn’t suggest bothering with that for your background and interests at the moment

If you have a dumb slip up or fall, or some random Boulder dislodges and is rolling down towards you, what are you going to do? A helmet may save your life. This is especially important if you’re doing anything more significant than a basic hike while alone, especially on a less-frequented trail.

If $50 isn’t worth that, then that’s really unfortunate: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-Half-Climbing-Helmet/dp/B07MWCYB31. Some people just don’t want to wear a helmet, and it’s okay until they’re not. For the two hikes you mentioned, I don’t think I wore helmets because the risk of falling into a rock or rock/snowfall was low and I was with a group, but any type of scrambling (Dragontail and to a lesser extent, Aasgard I’d assume you also did), it would be a better call to wear one. That’s just my opinion though, many people choose not to until it is obviously required.

I love the Chinese medicated patches that transdermally deliver pain relief to joints. Probably have stuff that isn’t legal in the United States.

https://www.amazon.com/Relieving-Patches-Medicine-Capsicum-Medications/dp/B077ZMB6SY/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=chinese+red+tiger+balm+patches&qid=1624284677&sprefix=chinese+red+tiger+&sr=8-3

For heel pressure:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073C79YF3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_72S5QCVDNP2T1KJMYN72

For blisters:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077TKLJ8T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_YRNNFFTX3RMC4JF7SYVG

The US Gov't calls it Positive Mental Attitude.

I recommend the book Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzalez.

I recommend it to any body in yo outdoor, adventure, or adrenaline pursuits.

Check out Training for the New Alpinism

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https://www.amazon.com/Training-New-Alpinism-Climber-Athlete/dp/193834023X

I've seen "Training for the New Aplinism" referred to as the gold standard for training several times by people that spend lots of time on mountains.

The skills you need to acquire (imo) are largely dependent on the mountains you want to hike.

If you have hiking and backpacking experience, then you're already way ahead of many beginners, since many non-technical mountains (that can be completed in a day hike) mostly require you to have good conditioning and some basic skills in wilderness survival, and in being prepared with regards to gear.

2 Books I'd recommend for beginner mountaineers is:

Mountaineering, Freedom of the Hills - The Bible for all aspiring mountaineers. If it doesn't have the answer for any question you have, it'll point you in the right direction for where to look.

Training for the New Alpinism - The equivalent Bible, but for strength and conditioning training for all mountaineers, also talks about prepping for high altitude and what not.

If you already have nice running shoes that you find comfortable you should look into Neos Overboots. They're lighter than carrying a second boot and they're advertised as being warm down to -20. Look for them used from the Amazon Warehouse deals and they're commonly more than 50% off. I just used this method for an 18er in mexico and I was happy with it.

I learned about that story in this book, along with some other wild stuff that’s happened on Rainier. I highly recommend it

The Challenge of Rainier: A Record of the Explorations and Ascents, Triumphs and Tragedies, on the Northwest's Greatest Mountain https://www.amazon.com/dp/0916890708/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iZ5AFb1WS7F56

Fifty percent of mountaineering is uphill.

Great book about the guide who ended up conceptualizing the safety programs in Banff, Yoho, Jasper, Kootenay, and Glacier National Parks.

https://www.amazon.com/50-Percent-Mountaineering-Uphill-Pfisterer/dp/1926455606

I had a pair of Salewa Firetails (2012) which lasted for 5 years and I still can't throw them away. Now I have Salewa Wildfire Pro GTX (2017). I mostly use them for approaches to climbs (and obviously for descends). Also for easy climbs around UIIA II/III (Guess it's called scrambling).

I would go for non-Pro Wildfires as the Pro version is unnecessary heavy (like a bit closer to hiking than running shoes). But the biggest choice is still in front of you. Whether to prefer certainty in scrambling or comfort on descents.

Last but not least. The product images are heavily photoshopped. Often makes the shoes look lightweight but in reality, they're monstrous. Especially in sizes like EU45/46.

edit: If you're going to start with trail running, you'll end up with two pairs. But two pairs last two times longer.

After reading Into Thin Air I would strongly recommend reading Anatoli's book on the 1996 tragedy (here's an Amazon link to the book). It exposes a lot of the flaws from Krakauer's accounts. It's also very interesting getting Mountain Madness' side of the story.

Hey sounds like you're the guy I need to talk to! Here's where I am getting very very confused.

The guide says go to xxx.xxx (sorry I don't have the book with me this moment but it's like 501.503 or something like that)

A LOT of the vhf radios I see do channels 1,2,3 etc I see on Amazon.

Do I need one of these keypad radios? If can you please drop some jargon and knowledge on me on what these six digit frequencies are called?

Also I found a USB chargable radio from radioddity I think MIGHT be exactly what I need? What do you think about this.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SGCQFVR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_BqpoEbGAQZ2H6

Which closed foam mattress?

How much R do you get from the memory foam?

Down to what temps have you used this combination?

How much does the memory foam weigh after you've cut it?

This 2" memory foam pad weighs 3.7 lbs (pretty heavy):

https://www.amazon.com/FoamTouch-Upholstery-Foam-Density-Cushion/dp/B00TSVSA7C/ref=sr_1_4

you need to check out cutting glasses. they're used for cutting torches and plasma cutters. way dark, but still useable to walk around in - sort of. welding hoods are not going to work, they're too dark.

https://smile.amazon.com/Jackson-3004761-Nemesis-Cutting-Glasses/dp/B001VXTC2W/ref=smi_www_rco2_go_smi_g1405964225?_encoding=UTF8&%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0&ie=UTF8

Deep Survival: Who lives, who dies, and why talks about the psychological and physical side of mountaineering and occasionally plane crash survivor stories; very casual read.

Fuck it, I'll bite.

1 - Why not do both/all three? Do TM in the morning, and alternate between Vipassana & Samadhi/however you spell it in the evening (so 1 day you do Vipassana before going to bed, the next you do Samadhi).

2 - What are "more advanced meditation practices" and how do we quantify/qualify that?

3 - In practice, how does TM differ from the two I mentioned above? What is it based off?

4 - You mentioned that becoming more mindful will happen with becoming a high-level athlete. But in "Mindfulness in Plain English" the author asserts that practicing Vipassana will lead to results that sound pretty similar to what you're offering. So what proves that TM is the way, and not just meditation period?

I realize I should do my own research, but I really did enjoy your breakdown, so I'd really appreciate you answering these questions when you get a minute free.

I don't know why you would want to do this to yourself. Invernos are stupidly heavy, quite uncomfortable to walk in, and quite clunky for scrambles. There are tons of heavy duty winter boots that would be far more suitable for just regular hiking and can definitely keep your feet warm enough.

Mountaineering boots are meant to be rigid to allow for crampon use. If you don't plan on using crampons, and are interested in doing long hikes, go with a winter hiking boot - most of them will also be far cheaper than the $399 that MEC is charging for the Invernos.

On even a quick Google search - these Baffin shoes are rated to -70C and go for $170 on Amazon. They're definitely overkill for what you need but just as an example. You can get far lighter, more comfortable hiking boots that would easily be warm enough for -25C.

Trust me - your feet will thank me.

I recently bought these and although I haven't tried them yet I can tell you they are cheap. I'll try them out and see if they work but if I were you I'd keep my eyes peeled for a deal on quality made gaiters instead of going for the cheap-o's.

Thanks. I agree with you and that is what I was trying to convey but probably wasn't clear. I think I was erroneously lumping shorter ice axes and ice tools together. Now I know the difference. Is the 50 cm version of this the one you are referring to? https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-Raven-Ultra-Ice/dp/B001V7T0CU?th=1&psc=1

There's a good short guidebook called "10 Classic Alpine Climbs of Japan". The author's blog is also pretty good.

A good textbook would be Alpine Climbing: Techniques to Take You Higher by Cosley & Houston. It's targeted to that middle ground between pitching out a climb and going without any protection. (I'd also suggest understanding the basics of technical climbing as a pre-req, such as the climbing and anchoring books by John Long.)

If I personally wanted to protect a summer scramble, the specifics would depend on the route but I'd be thinking harness, helmet, 30-40 m half or single rope, a few 'biners, some sewn slings, and a few stoppers and small cams. (Everything listed after the rope would likely remain unused except for specific cases e.g. a rappel.)

Read this before buying, there are tons of imitators out there.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parachute_cord

This is mil-spec grade 550 cord:

https://www.amazon.com/Paracord-Guaranteed-Specification-550-MIL-C-5040H/dp/B00ERZ562Q?th=1&psc=1

It's not cheap but it works. In the army we use 550 cord to extend our 1 ton ratchet straps to secure loads, haven't seen it break yet. Our paratroopers also jump on it - so there's that. But yeah, great for boot laces and just about anything else.

J

Can't speak for Denali - as I haven't done it or anything nearly as big (~16,000 feet is the highest I've gone) but it's on my radar for the not so distant future. I live in Colorado and it sounds like you are also a Colorado local. You should check out this guide book - Colorado Snow Climbs. There are a lot of fantastic climbs out here that will make for great practice for Denali. These are also a ton less crowded than the front/sawatch range 14ers - even in winter/spring.

> I'd love to find a good Denali book.

Minus 148 Degrees is another good Denali book on the first winter ascent

https://www.amazon.com/Minus-148-Degrees-Art-Davidson/dp/0898866871/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

on that note - how about hiking boots? What type did you wear for this traverse? Did you get 2 layer mountaineering boots, or standard hiking boots? Right now I have these Salomon boots

http://www.amazon.com/Salomon-Mens-Ultra-Multifunctional-Hiking/dp/B00N9W05P6

Start hiking in the mountains in NJ, NY, MD and further in NE or down in the Apps. Find a rock climbing gym and get in as much time as you can there. Colorado rules, I live in Denver and don't ever want to leave. Moving here just because you want to climb mountains without experience, not a good idea. Start reading and training. Once you feel ready then decide where to move. Best book you will ever find for helping you in your quest for mountaineering is here. http://www.amazon.com/Mountaineering-Freedom-Hills-8th-Edition/dp/1594851387

I ended up going with:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ANMYRI?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

With some Benzoin Tincture.

Thoughts? Leukotape looked a little more flimsy:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002YMB600?keywords=leukotape&qid=1456183438&ref_=sr_1_5&s=hpc&sr=1-5

It's a Eureka, I bought it at Basspro shops in 2009 for super cheap. I can get you a link of what it is like, but Eureka doesn't show it anymore on their site. Thing is like 3.5-4#, and in my marmot bag I was good to go. It's a tight fit for two, but baller big for one.

This: http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-Zeus-Classic-Tent-sleeps/dp/B000RLPI8G

My tent survived 13 hours of snow with nary a failure in New Hampshire's Whites. Most recently had it in Idaho at Steven's peak, hit neg 15f, and with my tent I was sweltering, which had me a bit grumpy. Thing is old as dirt though.

Regarding gloves vs mitts, I recently picked up a pair of the Hestra Heli 3-finger gloves that are like mittens but have a separate index finger for more dexterity. I'll be using them for the first time next week, so we'll see how it goes.

Kinco Gloves are massively popular with people who want something durable and cheap. Just rub em down with wax often to keep the water out.

The Mountaineering Handbook has a good, readable, and practical discussion of mountain weather.

The way to get them cheap is to watch for end of season clearance sales but if you need a pair now then this isn't a bad deal:

http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Research-Mens-Verglas-Gaiters/dp/B009Q1BGDE

$42 for the black OR Verglas gaiters.

The fit is similar to the crocodile but they're a little lighter. The tradeoff is durability but, unless you are cramponing yourself in the ankles non-stop, these hold up just fine. I have a pair and use them for mountaineering, ice climbing, etc...

edit: If you wear a large or XL, the blue color appears to be an even better deal at $33 shipped, sold and shipped by amazon.

second edit: buy these.

You have time to buy Training for the New Alpinism and follow its training guidelines. Besides being a great training manual, it's full of inspiring (and scary) photos and stories. It's considered the standard text on the subject.

I haven't been myself, but some acquaintances have been down climbing in Peru a couple times. This year they did a week-long trek around the Cordillera Huayhuash for acclimatization and then went climbing for a couple weeks in the Cordillera Blanca. They managed to avoid any altitude-related problems this year.

If you can find a copy, Classic Climbs of the Cordillera Blanca is a great guide to organizing a trip with a good overview of the peaks.

>Before any of this you should check out some resources on mountaineering in general--Freedom >of the Hills is a great place to start--and really think about what you want from the mountains.

This. If you're going to buy one book on mountaineering, buy this book.

Also, I just want to reiterate what this guy said, it's good advice. Climb stuff near you. Start with mountains that are small and safe. Get to know your comfort zone. What's in your comfort zone, what isn't. Many people get into this for the long hikes, glacier and ice travel, and to be at altitude. Other people really enjoy rock climbing high peaks, and the physicality of it (which isn't to say that glacier and ice travel can't be technically hard, they can!)

Here is a simple and basic explanation of the mountaineering grade system. Sometimes wikipedia has too much information, and this is an example of this. Please pay specific attention to the International French Adjectival System (IFAS) and to the Alaskan Grade System which is called other things in other places. I find the alaskan grade system to be the most useful, and I think of it as not only a way to measure my time spent climbing, but also my commitment level.

Here is a link for freedom of the hills. I have heard mountaineers and alpinists refer to this as the bible. This is where you start.

Training for the New Alpinism is the standard text for mountain fitness. The authors even have advice for people stuck in the flatlands.

I'm not a fan of Freedom of the Hills, despite it being considered the standard text. I find the prose dry to point of being unreadable, like it was written by committee.

I prefer the Mountaineering Handbook by Connally. It's engagingly written, though his opinions are controversial (he recommends the bowline with Yosemite finish as a tie-in).

I loved 8000m: Climbing the World's Highest Mountains by Alan Hinkes. He describes his journey on each of the fourteen 8000m summits. The pictures are beautiful.