What is the approximate total cost of a full set of mountaineering equipment? What is the most expensive piece? These are questions many outdoor enthusiasts care about.
At an altitude of 5,642 meters, Mount Elbrus is covered in snow above the assault camp. During the summit climb, almost all standard mountaineering gear comes into play.
● Trekking poles
Assist with walking. Generally cost around 1,000 RMB per pair.
● Ice axe
Comes in two types: walking axe and technical axe. The former aids in walking and can also be used for support during climbs when needed; the latter is sharper and used for cutting ice and clearing paths. A walking axe generally costs around 700 RMB.
● Mountaineering boots
Comprise inner and outer layers and are essential for climbing high-altitude peaks. High-end mountaineering boots typically cost around 10,000 RMB, making them the most expensive single item in mountaineering gear.
● Socks
Mostly made of wool or cotton, priced around 200 RMB per pair.
● Crampons
Attached under the mountaineering boots, crampons are essential for kicking into snow and ice to prevent slipping during the climb. They come in types such as ice climbing and mixed ice-rock. Generally priced around 2,000 RMB per pair.
● Fleece hat
Provides head warmth. Only the mouth and nose are exposed, with the rest of the head tightly covered. The material is quite thin. Generally priced around 200 RMB. (Note: On the 17th, temperatures were relatively high, and the photo shows Dong Fan wearing a sun hat.)
● Snow goggles
Essential for high altitudes; otherwise, prolonged walking on snow can cause snow blindness. Priced around 2,000 RMB.
● Neck gaiter
Available in one-piece and two-piece styles. For high-altitude use, the two-piece style is generally thicker. Priced around 300 RMB.
● Base layer underwear
Provides warmth and wicks moisture. Generally priced around 500 RMB per set.
● Fleece sweater
Soft and warm. Generally priced around 1,000 RMB.
● Hardshell jacket
Windproof, snowproof, and waterproof—won’t get wet even if splashed. Generally priced around 2,000 RMB+.
● Mountaineering down jacket
Specifically designed for high-altitude use. Often comes with matching down pants and anti-friction gloves. The down pants have a unique feature—a zipper on the back for easier toilet breaks. Mountaineering down jackets generally start at around 5,000 RMB.
● Fleece pants
Soft and warm. Prices generally range around 500 yuan.
● Hardshell pants
Windproof, snowproof, and waterproof—water simply beads off. Many models feature zippers for easy bathroom access. Prices typically start at over 2,000 yuan.
A full set of mountaineering gear, in addition to the items above, includes backpacks, load-bearing sacks, and more suitable for various situations. The most basic complete set starts at 40,000 yuan. There are also options priced at 60,000 yuan, 80,000 yuan, and beyond—quite pricey.