Winter Clothing Suggestions

The disadvantages of these boots are that they may be used infrequently if you are not an active mountaineer, they are twice the price, heavier and take longer to break in than a summer boot.

If you don't have rigid-soled mountain boots a good quality walking boot (B1-2*) will be adequate for this course. It should have; reasonably stiff uppers (not canvas or Gore-Tex), providing enough ankle and foot support for traversing relatively steep slopes, a reinforced toe cap (for kicking steps into hard snow), and a reasonably stiff sole which can only be bent a few degrees when you try to fold the toe up. There should be a hard rubber sole with good tread i.e. Vibram type.

Flexible walkers' crampons can be fitted to these boots and will ensure that snow and ice such as that found in the Welsh mountains on a winter walk can be negotiated safely.

UPPER BODY:
Several thin layers are better than one thick one since they allow for temperature adjustment. It's a good idea to start with a good wicking vest then add a thin fleece or thin jumper and then a thicker fleece or another jumper. Duvet jackets are warm but not as versatile and tend to take up most of a rucksack when not being worn!

EXTREMITIES:
You should bring several pairs of thick socks and, although we provide hat and mittens, you might find a thin pair of gloves useful under the mitts.

A WORD ABOUT FITNESS
Be kind to your body and arrive in reasonable shape and do please inform us of any medical condition you may have.

Winter walking/mountaineering crampon and adequate for easier climbs of Grade 1/2.
The plastic bindings front and back fit a wide variety of boots (sizes 35-46). Strapping system and length adjustment are simple and easy to operate.

Cotswold Price: £70