Winter Equipment Explained for Winter Skills Courses

What each item does, why it matters, and when you actually need it.

Winter equipment can look intimidating if you’re new to snow and ice. Axes, crampons, helmets and avalanche kit all have a purpose, but not everything is required on every course. This guide explains the key winter equipment used on our winter skills courses, focusing on function rather than brands.

Ice axes

A winter walking axe is primarily a safety tool. It’s used for balance, cutting steps in soft snow, self-arrest practice, and general movement on snow-covered terrain.

• Most winter skills courses use a single general mountaineering axe.
• Length matters more than brand.
• You’ll learn how and when to use it safely during the course.

Crampons

Crampons provide grip on snow and ice and must match both the terrain and your boots. Correct fit is more important than model choice.

• C1, C2 or C3 crampons must match your boot rating.
• Poorly fitting crampons are unsafe and uncomfortable.
• If you’re unsure, guidance on choosing boots and crampons is available by clicking here.

Helmets

Helmets are essential safety equipment in winter terrain, protecting against falling ice, debris and slips during skills practice.

• Helmets are supplied free of charge on our winter skills courses.
• You do not need to bring your own unless you prefer to.
• Correct fit and adjustment are covered during the course.

Avalanche safety equipment

Avalanche safety equipment is only required on our longer winter courses where terrain and conditions make it appropriate. This equipment is used to understand risk and practise safe travel rather than to encourage exposure.

• Avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel.
• Used on the 4-day winter skills course.
• Not required on shorter winter skills courses.

Bivi bags and emergency equipment

On longer winter courses, you’ll carry additional emergency equipment as part of learning good winter mountain practice.

• Bivi bag for emergency shelter.
• Snow shovel for snowholing and winter shelter skills.
• Spare gloves, insulation and essential safety items.

What you don’t need to bring

One of the most common mistakes is bringing too much. You don’t need every piece of winter equipment you’ve seen online.

• Technical climbing axes.
• Excessively heavy or specialist kit.
• Navigation equipment for guided expeditions where navigation is handled by the guide.

Hire vs buy

For many people, hiring winter equipment makes far more sense than buying straight away. It allows you to learn what works for you before committing to expensive kit.

• Core winter equipment can be hired where appropriate.
• Buying after gaining experience often leads to better choices.
• Advice on hire options is available by clicking here.