Cassin X-All Mountain Ice Ax
Cassin鈥檚 X-All Mountain is a one-tool quiver with a low-profile pick that bites like a rabid raccoon and鈥攖his is smart鈥攁 handle that swaps out for mellower glacier climbs.
Outdoor Research Warrant Gloves

Outdoor Research鈥檚 waterproof, PrimaLoft-insulated Warrant gloves can handle the abuse of belaying (the leather palms are reinforced) without sacrificing sensitivity (the bulk of the insulation is on the back).
Black Diamond Momentum DS Harness

Adjusters on each hip of Black Diamond’s Momentum DS harness keep your gear loops centered for easy access鈥攚hich means less fumbling in cold weather.
Grivel G22 Crampons

Grivel鈥檚 G22 crampons are broader at the top than the bottom to prevent them from ripping through soft ice. They pair perfectly with Mammut鈥檚 Nordwand TL boots.
Mammut Nordwand TL Boots

Grivel’s G22 crampons pair perfectly with Mammut’s shockingly light (at just 2.1 pounds) Nordwand TL boots. The Nordwand’s non-gusseted padded tongues nixed pressure points, and power straps locked us in when we tested them in Alaska and Vermont. Plus, the integrated gaiters’ gripper material kept our pants from sliding up when postholing.
Petzl Meteor III+ Helmet

Protect your noodle with Petzl鈥檚 highly adjustable Meteor III+ helmet. It鈥檚 so light and well ventilated, you鈥檒l use it for summer climbing as well.
Mountain Hardwear Drystein Jacket

Mountain Hardwear鈥檚 waterproof, ultralight (1.3 pounds) Drystein jacket, one of the most breathable we鈥檝e ever tested, is so light and well ventilated, you鈥檒l use it for summer climbing as well.
Patagonia Super Alpine Bibs

Patagonia鈥檚 Gore-Tex Pro Shell Super Alpine bibs were impressive; full side zips make for easy on and off, while the built-in gaiter clips keep them tight around your boots.
Black Diamond鈥檚 Speed 40 Pack

Haul all of your gear with Black Diamond鈥檚 Speed 40 pack鈥攖he spring-loaded shoulder straps move with you, saving you energy on the approach.