Published October 26, 2020 12:00AM
If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside.Learn about Outside Online's affiliate link policy
The Best Mountaineering Gear of 2021
Leading gear for frozen alpine missions
(Photo: Inga Hendrickson)
Petzl Fly Harness ($100)
Weighing 4.6 ounces, the Fly is the first adjustable harness sans metal buckles we’ve tested. The waist belt and leg loops use knots and toggles, so you can tie in with skis on.
ADVERTISEMENT
Mammut 8.7 Alpine Sender Dry Rope ($220)
Few cords this thin, light, and durable are also triple certified as a single, half, and twin rope. This outlier is ready for any mission.
ADVERTISEMENT
The North Face Summit L4 Hybrid Pants ($389)
The waterproof, durable, highly breathable Summit L4 soft-shell pants boast clip-on suspenders for easy on-off and Kevlar kick patches that prevent crampon snags.
ADVERTISEMENT
Outdoor Research Archangel Jacket ($699)
Constructed from durable Gore-Tex Pro, this burly hard shell keeps you dry in blizzards. A stretch panel on the neck and upper back preserves your range of motion.
ADVERTISEMENT
Petzl Irvis Hybrid Crampons ($190)
ADVERTISEMENT
Sporting a steel front and aluminum heel connected by Dyneema cord, these ten-point spikes are super light (19 to 20 ounces) without sacrificing bite. Petzl’s crampons are modular, so you can mix and match to suit.
Black Diamond Vision MIPS Helmet ($150)
This 8.4-ounce lid offers improved side and back coverage plus MIPS for oblique impacts. It’s hat-compatible and easy to adjust with gloves on.
ADVERTISEMENT
Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Ax ($120)
The revamped award-winning Raven Pro has a slightly curved shaft and a grooved handle for better grip. With six lengths, you can find your best fit.
ADVERTISEMENT
Arc’teryx Alpha FL 30 Pack ($259)
A roll top means the waterproof Alpha FL’s capacity expands up to 37 liters. The minimalist 1.4-pound design has external tool and rope carry, and an internal stash pocket.
ADVERTISEMENT
Rab Pivot GTX Gloves ($140)
These gloves shine in harsh conditions but still offer dexterity for technical climbing, thanks to wind- and waterproof Gore-Tex Active and grippy leather with synthetic insulation.
ADVERTISEMENT
Asolo Mont Blanc Gv Mountaineering Boots ($950)
This boot is surprisingly warm for its two-pound weight and perfect for kicking ice. Gore-Tex insulation seals in heat, while carbon fiber and aluminum make the sole rigid and agile.
