Equipment

Equipment must be kept to the lightest weight consistent with reasonable durability and adequate protection against emergencies. A light pack makes a trip more pleasant and control of skiing more certain. Even the robust man, who could easily carry much more, should always have as light a pack as possible, to maintain reserve energy for emergencies and a reserve of carrying power in case of injury or fatigue of any other member of the party. He should further consider that if he is injured, the party must carry his pack—or discard some of it.

The equipment is divided into that which is (1) worn, (2) carried in the pack, (3) included for community use, and (4) necessary for difficult climbing on rock and ice. The equipment listed first in each of the divisions is the minimum requirement for a tour of at least one night on the snow, with possibility of blizzard and temperatures down to —30° F; "optional" equipment can be added as desired. The community equipment is based on a four-man party. Variation in the number in the party using the community and climbing equipment, as well as the type of expedition, would require some changes in the items suggested. Supplementary discussion is included in the chapters on Warmth and Shelter. Refer also to the Check List of Equipment on pages 221 and 224.