Clothing & Personal Comfort

A field day in avalanche terrain can involve long periods of standing still in very cold and changing weather conditions. Being cold is uncomfortable, distracting and can take away from your ability to learn.

Come prepared with more clothing than you think you’ll need. A versatile layering system allows you to adjust your clothing as your activity level and the weather change throughout the day.

Recommended Clothing

Base layers

• Top and bottom
• Wool or synthetic materials recommended
• Avoid cotton — cotton holds moisture and loses its insulating ability when wet

Mid layers

• Warm fleece, wool or synthetic layer
• Bring layers of different weights so you can adjust throughout the day

Shell

• Quality waterproof/windproof jacket
• Waterproof or highly water-resistant ski pants
• Ventilation zips on pants are strongly recommended

Insulation

• Warm insulated jacket or vest — down or synthetic
• This is one of the most important pieces of clothing for the AST 2. You’ll want a warm layer to put on during breaks, while stopping to discuss terrain, or when conditions become particularly cold.
• Don’t be afraid to bring more insulation than you think you’ll need.

Hands

• Two pairs of gloves or mitts
• One pair for travelling and working in
• A dry, warm pair to change into during breaks or when your first pair gets wet

Head & neck

• Warm wool or fleece hat that covers your ears
• Buff or neck gaiter for additional protection from wind and cold

Socks

• Wool or synthetic
• Avoid cotton

Helmet

• Ski or snowboard helmet recommended

Optional Equipment

These items aren’t required, but can be useful:

• Hand and toe warmers
• Camera
• Snow saw
• Snow study kit

A good rule for the field: if you’re debating whether you need another warm layer, bring it. You can always leave an extra layer in your pack; you can’t add one you left at home.