Mike’s Top 5 Mountain Gear Must Haves!

 

1) A Buff. Buffs are one of the most useful tools in any high altitude climber’s kit. Not only do they keep your neck warm but when put over your mouth, they warm and humidify the air making it less stressful on your lungs to help keep the dreaded “Khumbu Cough” at bay. They’re great for keeping the sun off the back of your neck when things heat up on the glacier, too. I bring several on every high altitude expedition.

 

2) Insulated Leather Work Gloves. I have lots of expensive climbing-specific gloves for different occasions but I find my go-to, day to day gloves on the mountain are cheap insulated work gloves.  A long time climbing friend of mine is a lineman in Pensylvannia and sends me a 6 pack every few years, so you can’t get more inexpensive than that. (Thanks Dave Schlimme!) They are light enough for those hot days on the glacier and warm enough when the temperature drops and the sun ducks behind the mountains. You can pick up a hot stove with them and they’re as easy to waterproof as a pair of hiking boots.

 

3) iPhone. It’s priceless to be able to take quality photos and videos easily while in the mountains. On occasion, I will bring the big gun DSLR to capture the right image, but it’s amazing what you can do with an iPhone these days. It’s great for being able to share those magic moments from expedition with loved ones back at home and quick to pull out, snap the shot and put it away without getting cold. I keep it close to my body when climbing to keep the battery from getting zapped.

 

4) Wet Wipes. Being able to wipe off the grime and sunscreen is priceless after a week or so in the mountains without a shower. I always toss in a 2- pack of baby wipes or face wipes. It’s amazing how refreshing it feels, and great to avoid getting heavy zinc sun protection all over your expensive clothes and sleeping bag.

 

5) Himali Altocumulus Jacket. The Altocumulus is the perfect mid-weight down puffy and is incredibly versatile. I basically live in it on expedition. It’s so light and packs down so much that I can’t justify NOT throwing it in my pack! It’s tough and looks good too.