Boundless Gear

Approach Shoes These are “hiking” shoes specifically made for approaching and descending from a climbing venue where scrambling is necessary, or even for climbing an entire route. They have sticky climbing rubber on the bottom and a formed fit to influence better climbing abilities while scrambling. Consider high-tops for additional ankles support if needed. Regular hiking boots or trailstyle shoes may be acceptable for many climbs. (**NOTE** Try on your boots if you can before you pruchase them. The wrong shoe purchase can make all the difference from an enjoyable time or not.)
Baselayer Bottoms Synthetic or Merino Wool, Lightweight or mid-weight are recommended.
Beanie or Fleece Hat Should cover the ears and be able to fit under a helmet (if needed)
Lightweight Baselayer Top Synthetic or Merino Wool; Worn against the skin and is considered a “wicking” layer that facilitates the movement of moisture away from the skin and through the layers. (Hooded base layers add extra versatility if needed) (160-200 weight)
Lightweight Gloves Synthetic; Thin gloves used when hiking the early morning approach.
Midweight Baselayer Top Synthetic or Merino Wool; Adds extra warmth and protection from the cold and wind without creating a moisture barrier as a jacket would. Having at least one base layer that is hooded adds versatility, protecting the neck and ears from cold winds. (260 Weight)
Midweight Softshell Glove This is the workhorse glove and is most often worn on warmer days when mountaineering. Softshell gloves are water-resistant and durable. They often have leather palms and fingers.
Hiking Boots GoreTex, insulated, leather or synthetic boots. Two levels of boots can be appropriate depending on the season, conditions, and personal needs. Most popualr season is lightweight (May – October): This is a single-layer, semi-insulated, waterproof boot, such as the Salomon Ultras. (**NOTE** Try on your boots if you can before you pruchase them. The wrong shoe purchase can make all the difference from an enjoyable time or not.)
Neck Gaiter “Buffs” are quite versatile in their uses. They can be used as light beanies, neck warmers, and can offer face protection from the cold, wind or sun.
Softshell and Fleece Jacket Water-resistant, windproof, yet it “breaths,” which means it allows moisture to move through. Hoods are ideal. There are multiple thicknesses of Softshell jackets. A lightweight or medium-weight jacket is preferred. Fleece jackets are acceptable.
Softshell Pants Softshell material is stretchy, wind-proof, water-resistant, and resists abrasion. Mid-weight is recommended and light-weight pants can work for warm days. Typical thin, nylon “hiking pants” are generally not tough enough.
Sun Hat A billed hat to keep the sun at bay during the approach and descent.
Synthetic or Down Puffy Jacket Fits over all other layers and is worn at breaks and on really cold days. Synthetic puffies are more durable, are easily laundered, and dry out quickly if wet. Down puffies are lighter weight, pack smaller, and provide exceptional warmth, but once wet, they stay wet.
Synthetic or Merino Wool Socks Wool and synthetic blends are great for long days on the trail. “Ski” and “Snowboard” socks are especially useful when warmth is desired.
Waterproof Shell Jacket Non-insulated, Gore-Tex, Dermizax, Event, or other waterproofing system is required. Mostly, this jacket sits in the bottom of your pack and comes out when the weather gets nasty with precipitation. (***NOTE*** This jacket should fit over all other layers so size up.)
Backpack: 20-40 liter Packs smaller than this tend not to be able to carry the necessary amount of equipment and clothing. Make sure whatever pack you pick it has a place and the support for a water bladder.
Food Proper lunches that are prepared ahead of time are recommended (sandwich, burrito, rice, grilled chicken, etc), along with an assortment of quailty bars, fresh berries, or trail mixes..
Headlamp Load with fresh batteries. Critical for hiking before sunrise and great to have in the pack in case you are caught out after dark. (***NOTE*** Select a lamp that is simple to use and is LED)
Rock Climbing Helmet UIAA/CE approved; Should be large enough to fit over a beanie. Plastic helmets are more durable, but heavier. Foam helmets are lighter, but more easily damaged when carried in a pack.( **NOTE** Depends on the Hike)
Trekking Poles Adjustable and without powder basket.
Sunglasses “Wrap-Around” style sunglasses with 100% UV Protection.
Lip Screen SPF 15 or higher. Travel size.
Sun Screen SPF 20 or higher. Sun Screen non-greasy sweat proof sun screen and mineral base.
First Aid Kit You should bring a small First Aid Kit including blister prevention and care products such as a role of athletic tape and Moleskin. Your kit should also contain a few Band-aids, some Tylenol and Ibuprofen.
Personal Toilet Kit At minimum, bring a small Ziploc with toilet paper. Consider bringing a travel sized package of hand-wipes. Idealy, purchase the Rest Stop, known as “Blue Bags” in the Pacific Northwest, or the “Wag Bag” in other areas, are poop-in-a-bag systems that include toilet paper and a sanitizing hand wipe.
Watch with Altimiter An altimeter is very useful in gauging progression of altitude gain or loss when climbing, and especially when visibility is decreased due to weather. Many Altimeter watches have compasses or GPS tracking functions.