Climbers know that efficiency is key to enjoying adventures in the mountains. This is true both for movement and for equipment. In addition to all of the training you are doing, part of the preparation for your climb is making sure that you have the proper gear. The right equipment choices provide an added degree of comfort and safety, allowing you to focus on the climb and enjoy the experience.
We know you have many choices when it comes to outdoor products. And because we also know that navigating all the options can be overwhelming, we created this Gear Guide to help simplify the outfitting process. In this post we share our philosophy, tips and advice, and specific functions and features of each equipment item listed for a summit attempt on Rainier. We also identify the products that we believe are the “best in class” and ideal for climbing Rainier.
Our guide was written with input from the RMI guide team, who have been guiding climbers on Mt. Rainier since 1969. As outfitters of RMI for the last few decades, we have a pretty good idea about what works and what doesn’t up on the mountain. All of our gear suggestions can be bought or rentedfrom our store, in person or online.
How This Works:
We've divided our guide into two pages; Gear and Apparel.This is the Apparel page.
If you're looking for Guide Pick please click here.
Otherwise, feel free to click on the section you're interested in below, or just start scrolling!
Upper Body Layering
We recommend a minimum of 5 upper body layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Two of these should be insulating layers, one light and one medium, that fit well together. Today there are many different layering systems to choose from, including fleece, soft-shell, down and synthetic options. The following pages discuss each layer in more detail.
Layering System
The upper body layering system should consist of a baselayer, lightweight insulating layer, midweight insulating layer, hardshell, and expedition parka. Each piece works together as part of a larger system, and should allow for flexible movement and protection from the elements.
Guide to
Upper Baselayers
This is the first layer of your system. Long sleeves are mandatory on the summit climb and upper mountain to protect your skin against abrasions should you slip or need to self arrest. This should be a quick drying, fast wicking, non-cotton, and comfortable top.
We recommend a long-sleeve wool or synthetic top. Quarter zip or loose fitting sun hoody styles will allow for better temperature regulation. We recommend light colors, which best reflect the intense sun on hot days.
Advice in Motion
Choosing a Baselayer
Guide to
Lightweight Insulation
This layer adds a bit of warmth to your system, while maintaining breathability during heavy exertion. Light weight with or without hood. Think of a Pacific Northwest running layer - lightweight enough to work out in and with just enough material to combat the cold.
Midweight Insulation
This heavier insulating layer adds increased warmth, and a bit of wind or weather protection. There are many suitable materials and styles including Down, Synthetic, Fleece, or Soft Shell jackets or sweaters. We recommend a layer with a bit of wind and water resistance, which can be worn over your lightweight layer.
There are a bunch of viable midweight layers, ranging from Down to Fleece.
Handles It All, From Alpine Squalls To Urban Downpours
Alpine squalls or urban downpours, the StormLine Stretch Rain Shell can handle it all. Featuring our BD.dry™ waterproof/breathable/windproof s...
Product Description
The Black Diamond HighLine Stretch Shell is the most versatile, and technical, 3-layer mountain shell in our collection. The HighLine features a premier combination of our BD.d...
Mountain Hardwear's Ultra-Warm Down Parka in 800-fill RDS®-certified Down for Bone-Chilling Temps
Our ultra-warm down parka for shiver-free belays on ice and alpine routes, après-trek warmth at Eve...
Mountain Hardwear's Ultra-Warm Down Parka in 800-fill RDS®-certified Down for Bone-Chilling Temps
Our ultra-warm down parka for shiver-free belays on ice and alpine routes, après-trek warmth at Eve...
Guide to
Hardshell Jackets
Your hard shell coat should be made of a water proof, air permeable fabric. A thinner and lighter weight jacket is ample, and ideal for the climb. It should have an attached hood for protection from the elements. We recommend a non-insulated jacket for this layer.
A Great Fitting Top for Wicking Sweat
This midweight zip-neck finds the right balance between weight, breathability and wicking performance. Versatile enough to wear alone or under layers, it keeps...
The Solstice Graphene is guide grit plus lab smarts.
This is the best baselayer we've ever made. Period. Years of development and iteration led us to a new synthetic fabric that feels like cotton,...
Gives new meaning to the word multitasker
Summer, winter and both shoulder seasons, Patagonia's Capilene® Midweight fabric hits the sweet spot of weight, breathability, and wicking that, worn alone...
An Ultralight Hoodie with the UV Protection
The Echo Hoodie is built from bluesign®-approved and recycled materials and is perfect for everything from fall running and spring ski touring to su...
Breathes Well, Great Sun Protection, and Comfortable
For long, exposed approaches, summit naps and sunny sessions at the crag, the Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody keeps you covered when sunscreen ...
Description
Patagonia's most versatile technical top is built for use on the trail or on the water: It’s quick drying, has stretch for mobility and comfort, plus HeiQ® Pure odor control. Made with ...
From the Summit to the Board Room
We liked our Alpha Ascender hoody so much, we decided to hack the sleeves off and turn it into one of those technical vests everybody’s wearing these days. But th...
Stay Warm, Move Fast
The R1® Air Full-Zip Hoody is a lightweight, breathable and quick-drying technical fleece for high-exertion activities in cold conditions. Fabric is made with 100% recycled p...
Perfect Layering Piece for Climbing Any Peak
With a waffle weave that extends all the way into the hood, the R1 Air is the perfect second layer for high-exertion activities in the mountains. It'll...
Fleece Is Not Dead
It still has a place in our kit. The Fissure is built for active, technical, and aerobic use with a generous hood stretchy enough to fit over a helmet, extra length in the sleeve...
A Great Layer for a Great Price
Providing everyday warmth and comfort, this lightweight quarter-zip fleece is made of 100% recycled polyester and can be worn as a lightweight jacket or layer. Made ...
A Great Layer for a Great Price
Providing everyday warmth and comfort, this lightweight 1/4 zip fleece is made of 100% recycled polyester, with classic clean lines and a stand-up collar. Made in a ...
Light, versatile synthetically insulated hoody works as a mid-layer and standalone, the Atom Hoody from Arc'teryx is a key addition to your kit.
Alpine proven as a mid layer and standalone, this v...
This is one of Arc'teryx's most trusted, best-loved hoodies.
Delivering proven, versatile performance as a mid layer or standalone, the Atom Hoody provides effective warmth for low-output and star...
From the Summit to the Board Room
We liked our Alpha Ascender hoody so much, we decided to hack the sleeves off and turn it into one of those technical vests everybody’s wearing these days. But th...
A Winner of our Guide Pick™ Choice for Midweight Insulating Layer
Warm, windproof, water-resistant—the Nano Puff® Hoody uses incredibly lightweight and highly compressible 60-g PrimaLoft® Gold Insu...
Guide to
Expedition Parkas
The parka is primarily worn during breaks to maintain your body temperature in the cold and wind of the climb. The parka may also be worn on the upper mountain as a piece of emergency backup gear. The parka must have an insulated hood to allow you to batten down the hatches and remain warm throughout any conditions, and should fit over all your other layers, so you may want to size up.
These expedition-style heavy parkas should extend below the waist and must have an insulated hood. We recommend down rather than synthetic fill as down weigh less. The parka does not have to be waterproof, though that is a nice feature. Here are a few of our top Parkas.
Lower Body Layering
We recommend a system of 3 layers, all of which can be s used in conjunction with each other. Products which combine several layers into one garment, such as traditional ski pants, don’t work well as they don’t offer the versatility of a layering system.
Guide to
Lower Body Baselayer
Depending on the weather, you'll want to go with baselayer bottoms or non-cotton underwear. A lightweight pair of baselayer bottoms provides added insulation for cold climbs when worn in conjunction with the climbing pants. Lighter is often better, as it easy to overheat, and difficult to remove baselayer bottoms mid-climb.
So Nice You'll Forget You're Not Going Commando
Designed to manage the extremes of high-output exertion, Patagonia's Capilene® Midweight fabric hits the sweet spot of weight, breathability and wick...
So nice you'll forget you're not going commando.
A classic, all-around 100% recycled polyester baselayer. The smooth, soft face makes for easy layering. Hollow-core yarns and a diamond-grid back...
A Great Feeling First Layer
A year-round favorite, our Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Bottoms work hard to keep you comfortable everywhere, from the ski lifts to the campsite. With an updated...
Durable and Breathable First Layer
Our Women's Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Bottoms are the perfect layer to put on for your warm-weather adventures. Made of lightweight, breathable Merino,...
A Thicker Baselayer for Cold Weather
We've updated our Men's Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottom to bring you a better fitting, more functional tight. The technical benefits of 100% Merino woo...
100% Merino. 100% Capable.
Our Women's Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer B is always ready for what's ahead and what's next. With a fit updated to improve functionality while enhancing ae...
Light and Comfortable
Performance boxer briefs made with moisture-wicking recycled nylon/spandex stretch micromesh fabric for high-output activities and travel. Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ ...
Breathability and Comfort
The Switchback® Sports Bra provides added breathability and comfort without affecting support or performance. Cross-back straps provide compression and support, and the li...
Feels Like a Gentle Hug
Made from our ultra-soft Heavana™ collection, this v-neck bra feel like a gentle hug. The heathered fabric provides a sleek look and the back has a strappy detail that will ...
Perfect Fitting Natural Underwear
Every adventure starts with a solid foundation, and so does your outfit. Whether you're in Tennessee or Timbuktu, the ultra-comfy and durable Merino fabri...
Guide to
Climbing Pants
Soft-shell climbing pants offer a wide range of versatility. You can wear them in combination with the base layer on colder days, or alone on warmer days.
The soft shell material breathes well and allows the sweat and heat generated during the climb to dissipate, while still offering some resistance to light wind and precipitation. These climbing pants are our main workhorse layer, often worn alone to ascend the snowfield, and with a baselayer on the upper mountain for added warmth. A fleece pant serves the same function but is not as durable, breathable, or weather resistant and as a result are rarely used by guides. Depending on the model, soft shells come in varying thicknesses If you are climbing in the middle of the summer climbing season when temperatures are higher, or you tend to run warm, aim for a lighter weight version. If you are climbing in the early or late season or find yourself always being the person wearing an extra layer, use a pair made from a thicker material.
Boxes = Checked
When it comes to climbing pants, there are quite a few boxes that need to be checked. They've got to be comfortable with and without long underwear, be harness compatible, and reg...
Hike, Alpine, or Rock, this Pant does it All
Fully featured, lightweight soft-shell pants with added durability for long alpine rock routes and all-day movement above the tree line. Inseam is 32 in...
Year-round Workhorse
Black Diamond updated their Alpine pant in 2024 with numeric sizing; the version from 2023 was alpha sizing. Here is the link to the new version: Men's Alpine Pants – Whitta...
Product Description
During any spring or fall mission, the Black Diamond Alpine Pant blends extreme durability with a highly breathable construction. Designed with a four-way stretch fabric, they c...
Product Description
During any spring or fall mission, the Black Diamond Alpine Pant blends extreme durability with a highly breathable construction. Designed with a four-way stretch fabric, they c...
A Top Choice of Our Mountain Guides
During any spring or fall mission, the Black Diamond Alpine Pant blends extreme durability with a highly breathable construction. Designed with a four-way stretc...
Tough and Protective 3-Layer GORE-TEX Waterproof Pants
Built for total protection in wet weather, the Kangri GTX pants are ideal for long mountain days in changeable conditions. They are made from...
Eco Friendly Protection
The Fineline Stretch Full Zip Pants provide the security you need to push your limits no matter what the weather holds. Updated to be PFAS free for fall 2024 and featuring o...
Guide to
Hardshell Pants
A waterproof pant with 3/4 side zippers (sometimes called 7/8 or full side zips) are required for facilitating quick clothing adjustments over boots and crampons.
Here are a few of our favorite Hardshell Pants.
Thanks for reading
Still have questions?
Feel free to shoot us a message at info@whittakermountaineering.com, give us a call, or visit our store!
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