• Clothing

  We hold our courses in summer conditions. However, the weather in the mountains can change really quickly; we might be baking one minute and getting cold as the sun disappears or the wind picks up. The key to a good clothing system is to have a versatile system that you can alter quickly to stay comfortable, neither hot nor cold.

  
  

  Thermal base layer

  A thin synthetic or merino wool base layer on your upper body is the ideal starting point for a standard clothing system; zipped neck versions allow more ventilation. Lightweight base layers are best for summer conditions. If possible, avoid wearing cotton because its loose fit normally doesn't allow it to insulate well. It will not wick away perspiration making you feel relatively cold. If you feel the cold, also use a base layer for your legs

  
  

  Mid-layer: warm clothing

  On top of your upper body base layer, a thin fleece works well for general use. It is always colder than you expect high on the hill, so always have another thick/windproof fleece top in a waterproof liner in your rucksack. If you get cold easily, perhaps add a fleece or waistcoat to your layering.

  Pertex windproof tops are amazing bits of kit that are worth their weight in gold. They weigh nothing, pack away to the size of a tennis ball and yet protect against the wind and even light showers.

  If it is forecasted to be warm, you could use a thin pair of synthetic trousers. Cotton trousers or denim jeans - might restrict movement and take a long time to dry.

  Shorts can seem like a great idea if the forecast is good, but can be a liability if it turns cold or wet. Or if the midges come out. If you wear shorts, make sure you have long trousers with you as well.

  In mixed conditions -and for most of Spring to Autumn use- the synthetic "soft shell" pants are fantastic - not cheap, but really versatile. ME Mountain Stretch Pants or Liskamm Pants together with Mammut's Base Jump Pants are all good reference points. Look for models that are windproof, stretchy and water resistant - those made from Schoeller fabrics are off to a good start.

  On cold days, trousers made from a stretchy fabric like Power Stretch are good, and even better is a thin pair of base layer pants with a stretchy soft shell pant. Some fleece pants, like Mountain Equipment's Ultrafleece pants and salopettes, have a stretch panel at the knee which works very well.

  
  

  Waterproofs & wind proofs

  These should be breathable, waterproof and hard wearing. Having trousers with full length zips is an excellent idea because you can take them on and off without taking your boots off.

  Event fabric is probably the best waterproof fabric around at the moment

Accessories

Sunglasses, sun cream and sun hat. When the sun does come out it can be unforgiving, especially up high.

Midge repellent - if you are out on the hills in Snowdonia between May and September then you will meet the odd midge.

Water bottle or flask - it is important to stay hydrated when out on the hill.

Food - several easily digestible snacks to keep you going throughout the day.

Compass and maps - it is important to have a map for your day on the hill and this should be either laminated or in a good waterproof map case (Ortlieb). The main maps used are OS Landranger (1:50,000) Sheets 115 & 124 and OS Explorer (1:25,000) Sheet OL 17

Head torch with spare batteries - a halogen / super bright LED combo torch is best.

Trekking poles - although non-essential, they can help to look after your knees during long days on the hills. If you are on a rock climbing or scrambling course, make sure they can be taken apart and fit inside your rucksack easily.

Personal First Aid Kit: plasters, compeed, wipes and personal medication. Always throw a bit of Gaffa tape and a few long zip ties into your first aid case - great for improvising emergency repairs.

Plastic Bags - a couple of bags for keeping valuables dry and separating out wet kit.