Equipment List

Download this COLT Equipment List pdf for the complete list of clothing and equipment you need to bring to the COLT program.

If you have any questions about how to choose or fit any of the items call the COLT office, 250-286-3122. For your own comfort and safety, it is important that you understand each item and its use.

It’s an extensive list. An estimate of the cost of gathering personal gear will vary widely depending upon how many of the items you already own. COLT will supply most technical and camping gear such as ice axes, crampons, stoves, tents, ropes, boats, etc.

A few words on fit

Break in footwear before you arrive. You spend a lot of time in boots and shoes; it’s worth spending time and money to get the best fit.
Get an after market foot bed. The ones that come with your boots are not that good.

Layering is key. Buy outerwear big enough so you can fit several layers underneath (see layering below). But not too big, either.
Climbing shoes should not hurt or crush your toes.

Please call the COLT office if you need more information, 250-286-3122 or jim@colt.bc.ca.

A note on paddling gear

For Fall (August-November) students, we recommend you purchase a paddling dry top or dry suit. These have waterproof gaskets that keep you drier and warmer in the cooler weather we experience during the fall paddling season. Students in summer and fall make do with the required wet suit and paddling top, but a dry top is an investment you will appreciate, especially if you get cold easily.

WHERE TO BUY?

Check out your local outdoor shops, or shop on-line at one of Canada’s largest outfitters:
 Mountain Equipment Co-op (www.mec.ca). 

If you are unable to acquire certain items, it is likely they can be mail-ordered on your arrival and shipped within 48 hours. If you decide to arrive without certain items, it is expected, after consultation with your COLT staff, that you order them immediately.

SOME ADVICE ON DRESSING FOR THE OUTDOORS

Layering is the most effective way to keep warm in the outdoors. Layering is a three-part process: moving moisture away from the body, insulation, and protection from the weather.

NEXT TO SKIN

You should wear a wicking layer made of fabrics designed to move moisture away from your skin, such as polypropylene, Capilene, silk, Thermax, to name a few. Choose fabrics that are also designed to be warm when wet.

MIDDLE LAYER(S)

Two more insulating layers of wool or fleece. They create pockets of warm air and help to wick moisture even farther away from skin. Both wool and fleece retain their warmth even when wet.

OUTER LAYER

On the outside is a waterproof, windproof, and breathable protective layer, such as Gore-tex. There are many proprietary fabrics out there, so ask questions and make sure you buy a good quality shell.