winter safety - George Fisher

winter
safety
GEORGEFISHER.CO.UK
winter safety guide
F
or many of us, the Lakeland winter brings the
best out in our mountains. What would be a fun
summer’s walk in shorts and T-shirt, transforms
itself into a serious-feeling expedition that starts
and finishes in the dark. The hordes have gone;
you’ll find few people on Hall’s Fell Ridge. Those
that you do meet are revelling in the experience,
crampons on feet, axe in hand.
It’s now that you appreciate the design features built
into your gear. Lightweight waterproofs are ideal in
the summer months but won’t cope with blizzard
conditions – a fully specified winter jacket allows
you not only to survive, but actually to enjoy the
situation. You’ll need effective insulation; not just
fleece, but maybe down or synthetic too.
Map and compass skills, easier in good weather,
become essential for winter walking. Footwear
becomes a serious factor, both for cold-weather
comfort and underfoot security. Plus crampons
and axes may be needed - do you know how to use
them properly?
With the right knowledge and equipment, being out
in the mountains in winter weather actually has its
own appeal – the satisfaction of being in control in
poor conditions. Arguably winter walking has more
potential for risk given that a simple accident can
more rapidly turn into a serious situation in blizzard
conditions. So if you’re heading out on the fells,
whatever the season, are you fully prepared?
This booklet isn’t a definitive list of kit you will need
for your mountain adventures. It highlights some
products and product areas you definitely need
such as map, compass, footwear, clothing etc but
the selection of what you take with you will come
down to your personal experience, the activity you
are planning and of course the weather. Hopefully
the information and ideas here will encourage you to
think about what you currently take out with you and
identify items you may be missing.
At George Fisher you can talk with enthusiasts who
not only know the fells, but are itching to get out
there themselves. We stock the best products for all
conditions based on performance and our experience,
pure and simple.
Images: Stuart Holmes
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winter safety
2
“It’ll
never happen to me”
Chris Harling, Deputy Leader Keswick Mountain Rescue Team has a message for all winter walkers
Winter
Navigation
Part 1: Maps
T
he first half of 2014 was a tragic period for
Mountain Rescue teams in the Lakes – a series
of similar incidents ended in the worst possible
way for several casualties and their families. While
the details of the events often remained unclear,
a common factor was the length of time taken and
the difficulty in locating these walkers by Mountain
Rescue teams.
W
All the casualties were walking alone (and happened
to be male, in the 50-70 age range), and did not leave
clear details of their intended route with a responsible
person. The outcome of the incident may have been
more positive in some cases if the walker had taken
the following sensible precautions:
Winter can potentially be a dangerous time to venture
out into the mountains, so do make sure you go
properly equipped and know how to navigate your way
back. An Ordnance Survey map and basic navigation
skills are essential, even if you are sticking to wellworn paths and walks.
Planning
Plan a route well within your capabilities, taking
into account the weather forecast and sunset time.
This itinerary should include early escape routes
allowing you to easily descend to your start point,
should conditions deteriorate. Leave a written record
(for example, a text, email or template route card as
available in George Fisher, or even a photocopy of your
map with lines drawn on) with someone expecting
your return and the time you expect to be back by.
Your hotel staff will be happy to do this; George Fisher
also distributes copies of its ‘Walk Plan’ to Keswick
accommodation providers.
Equipment
Carry a waterproof jacket (with hood) and trousers,
additional warm layers as well as hat and gloves
allowing for the fact it is often 10C cooler on the
felltops than in the valley. Take plenty of food, sugary
snacks and water, a map and compass (and know how
to use them!) plus a head torch (and spare batteries),
survival bag, mobile phone, whistle and first aid kit.
inter brings the joy of cold, crisp, sunny days
with clear, blue skies and a cool freshness on
your face. Days that are ideal for getting wrapped up
and setting out on an exhilarating and invigorating
stomp through snowy hills, stopping on the way
back for hot chocolate and marshmallows to heat
you through - an indulgence you’ll have thoroughly
earned!
Image: KMRT
Judge the risk! If you find yourself on steep ground,
assess what could happen if you slipped, and if
you feel uncomfortable about this risk choose an
alternative route. A further common element of
our incidents this year was a fall or tumble down
steep ground, which had been inadvertently strayed
onto, perhaps due to darkness or a navigation error.
Mountain rescue teams would rather be called out to a
‘stuck’ walker than a ‘fallen’ walker!
Keep an eye on the time, the weather conditions and
your progress; don’t leave it too late to descend safely.
If you do need the assistance of Mountain Rescue, call
999 and ask for the Police who will then call out the
appropriate team. If you have no signal, and no one to
shout to, then blow your whistle loudly six times and
repeat at minute intervals. If it is dark also flash your
torch six times repeatedly.
For further information and advice go to
ldsamra.org.uk
Using an OS Explorer Map and a few basic navigation
skills, you can work out routes that take you off the
beaten track, where you really can be the first to leave
a footprint in the fresh, crisp snow!
OS Explorer Map - Active, comes into its own if you are
out on the mountains and the weather takes a turn
for the worse and you find yourself in drizzle - or even
full-blown storms. The weatherproof coating protects
the map so it doesn’t get soaked and become hard to
read - and it comes with the usual Ordnance Survey
accuracy and detail.
Planning your next adventure can be great
way of getting you through the damp,
dreary, days when you really can’t get
outside. There’s nothing better than
poring over a map and working out where
you are going to go, ready for the next
adventure.
So, on those crisp winter days when a bit of
adventure and challenge are calling, don’t forget
your Ordnance Survey map.
Happy walking!
During your walk
If possible, ‘check in’ with someone from points along
your route – summits and ridges give the best chance
of a mobile signal.
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winter safety
4
Winter
Navigation
Part 2: Compasses
W
hether it’s summer or winter, your map and
compass are essential pieces of hill gear.
Ordnance Survey or Harvey 1:25000 maps or the
1:40000 British Mountain Maps are a treasure trove
of information. Even quite subtle features can be
used to navigate, and time spent learning to read a
map properly is time well spent.
Silva Ranger
Silva Expedition 4
Silva Field
Using your compass is straightforward once you have
mastered the three short steps to taking a bearing the Silva 1-2-3 system. To take a bearing you need to
know where you are (which is why map skills are so
important), and where you wish to go.
Silva Expedition 54
Three simple steps to taking a bearing:
1. Place the edge of the compass between the
two points, with the direction of travel arrow
pointing towards your destination.
The Silva compass is a simple piece of technology and
will become your unfailing friend when conditions
get serious. A Silva compass can mean the difference
between reaching safety with ease, or a terrifying
experience stumbling around lost.
Choosing the right compass is essential. Silva
compasses are designed to be both accurate and
robust. From the entry level of the Silva range, the
Field, or the Ranger and the Expedition 4 with the
1:40K romer scales, up to the magnificent Expedition
54, you’ll have a compass that will get you round the
hills accurately and won’t let you down when you most
need it.
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2. Ignoring the needle, turn the compass housing
round so the housing arrow points to the top of
the map and the orienting lines are parallel to
the vertical grid lines of the map.
3. Read the bearing off on the housing against the
direction of travel arrow.
winter safety
In order to walk on the bearing you need to alter
it from a grid bearing (you’ve just used the north
pointing grid lines to measure the bearing) to a
magnetic one (your compass needle points to
magnetic north). The difference between the two is
called the magnetic variation.
Magnetic variation changes year by year. To find out
the current magnetic variation, look on an up-to date
map or check on nearby.org.uk.
Once you have the figure, you need to alter your
bearing accordingly. Add (If magnetic north is west
of grid north - otherwise subtract) the magnetic
variation onto your grid bearing by physically moving
the housing round by the variation.
Once you’ve mastered taking bearings, this process
won’t take you long at all. You then need to follow
your bearing on the ground. Holding your compass
level, look along your direction of travel arrow. You
might see your destination, in which case walk to it.
However you’ll probably have to break your navigation
down into shorter sections. Find an object to walk to
that lies exactly on your bearing (as indicated by the
direction of travel arrow). Put your compass away and
walk to it, take your compass out again and repeat the
process until you reach your destination.
The skills of navigation in summer or winter are
the same; it’s just that in winter you need to be
extra careful. Underfoot conditions may be more
treacherous, it’ll certainly be colder and it gets dark
quicker so accurate and effective navigation is vital;
there is less scope for error in the winter. Whatever
you do, when you get lost it’s essential you don’t
panic. Take stock of your situation, work out where
you are, and then plan a safe descent. Look carefully
for hazards on the route down - sometimes it’s
better to take a longer, safer route than a short and
dangerous one.
Most importantly it’s vital you give yourself the best
chance on the hills in winter by learning to use your
map and compass properly. There are courses up and
down the country (check out navigationcourses.co.uk)
and a host of good books (try cicerone.co.uk and
search for navigation books). At the end of the day,
it’s practice that makes perfect and the more time you
spend ensuring you can take a bearing and follow it,
the better you will be when you need it most.
Silva is the leading manufacturer of compasses and
other outdoor equipment in the world: silva.se
Pete Hawkins runs the Silva Navigation School,
teaching map and compass skills following the
national Navigation Award Scheme syllabus:
silvanavigationschool.com
6
Winter
Navigation
Part 3: GPS units
O
ver the past few years GPS units have advanced
to include some innovative and useful features
to help you on the hill during the winter months.
Garmin have worked tirelessly over the past ten
years to ensure their devices survive the toughest
of conditions, so their GPS units are fully waterproof
and have been designed and tested for the worst
outdoor conditions.
A popular choice for winter navigation is the Garmin
GPSMap 64S. Its rugged casing and front-facing
buttons make this unit very simple to use, even when
you have winter mitts or gloves on, and gives you up
to 18 hours battery life from 2 x AA batteries. And
of course you can carry extra back-up batteries, just
in case.
Some Garmin GPS units (including the GPSMap 64S)
include a barometric altimeter which, combined
with the GPS signal, gives you accurate elevation
information. The barometric sensor will also give you a
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Equipment
Clothing
weather trend over time so you can see if a storm front
is approaching. Unlike many barometers Garmin units
self-calibrate via the GPS signal, meaning that data is
reliable and can be trusted. Various
Garmin units also include a 3-Axis
compass, which allows you to select
a bearing and walk on this without
the risk of drifting – really useful
when in a white-out on the tops!
By far the largest advancement
is the inclusion of Ordnance
Survey mapping. This allows for
live positioning ensuring that,
irrespective of the conditions, you
always know where you are and can
see your current position clearly on
a familiar OS map.
winter safety
Garmin GPSMap 64S
T
he Arc’teryx brand is synonymous with quality.
The clean design lines, quality of materials
and incredibly precise manufacturing really sets
the brand apart, whether you’re looking at their
clothing, rucksacks or climbing harnesses.
The Theta AR Jacket is a true storm shelter, a fullfeatured GORE-TEX® Pro shell garment with clean
styling and great versatility. Its longer length gives
maximum protection in winter weather, and the tall
collar with a DropHood gives quick access. Reinforced
high-wear areas enhance longevity and articulated
shaping provides athletic mobility for year-round
mountain use. The ergonomic 3-Dimensional (e3D)
patterning brings an additional level of articulation
to provide extra freedom of movement
GORE-TEX® Pro fabric with reinforced knees, seat,
and lower legs, they also feature Keprotec instep
patches to guard against crampons, ski edges and
boots. A trim athletic fit with articulated shaping
delivers mobility, and powder cuffs keep snow at
bay. True all-rounders!
For winter legwear, the Beta AR Pant is focused on
minimal weight and bulk, the ultimate in packable
four-season outer shell protection. Built tough from
Theta AR Jacket
Beta AR Pant
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equipment
Rucksacks
45 litres
These rucksacks are capable of
carrying camping gear for a couple
of nights, depending how much
food and water is carried - in our
illustration there’s a 2-man tent
which in practice would probably
be split between two people. They
also make good winter rucksacks,
as you’ll need to carry extra gear
in cold conditions.
35 litres
This is one of the more popular
sizes, because it offers great
versatility. A 35-litre backpack is
large enough for winter day hikes,
making it a full 4-season pack. It is
also large enough for lightweight
overnight camping, particularly in
summer. The equipment shown fits
easily with space to spare.
25 litres
Rucksacks of 25 litres are great
for day hikes in spring, summer
and autumn, but for winter you’ll
probably struggle to get a spare
winter jacket in. For climbers, 25
litre sacks are great for climbing
long routes if you need to carry
gear with you, however the rope
would almost certainly have to
be carried on the exterior on the
approach.
Equipment list
2 man tent
Sleeping bag
Camping mat
Stove
Fuel
Cooking pan & utensils
Overnight food
Day food
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Spare fleece
Hat and gloves
Head torch
First Aid kit
Trekking poles
Water- 2 litres
Map and compass
GPS unit
Equipment list
Day food and flask
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Winter jacket
Spare fleece
Hat and gloves
Head torch
First Aid kit
Trekking poles
Water- 2 litres
Emergency shelter
Map and compass
GPS unit
Equipment list
Day food
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Spare fleece
Hat and gloves
Head torch
First Aid kit
Trekking poles
Water- 2 litres
Map and compass
GPS unit
Image: Stuart Holmes
I
s there such a thing as a year-round rucksack? The
problem is that in winter you need to carry extra
gear, necessitating a larger-capacity pack of around
45 litres, whereas in summer you can get away with
a smaller version.
keeps your back ventilated and cool, idea for warm
conditions, and the pack only weighs just over a kilo.
Lowe Alpine has researched what gear will fit into
typical rucksack sizes, based on the sort of equipment
that most of us will carry.
So of course the answer is yes, as long as you’re
willing to carry a slightly larger rucksack around in
the summer. You’ll need one that’s as light as possible,
and with an efficient compression system to control
a smaller load. Ideally also one that has the technical
features to carry ice axes, trekking poles etc in winter.
An ideal candidate might be Lowe Alpine’s Mountain
Attack 45:55 with its lightweight fabrics, well-specified
harness and hipbelt, plus all the technical features to
carry winter gear.
Alternatively keep the Mountain Attack in your
cupboard for those winter adventures, and in summer
travel light and free with a smaller pack such as the
AirZone 25 or 35. The AirZone’s suspended back system
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winter safety
Total weight: 5kg
Total weight: 6.Skg
Total weight: 11kg
Mountain Attack 45:55
Airzone 25
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equipment
Headtorches
Equipment
Survival Shelters
I
n winter, a good day on the fells means you’ll be
quite likely to start and finish in the dark. Or at the
very least, you need to be aware that any delays or
navigation errors may leave you out after dusk.
It’s therefore essential to take a good head torch.
The question is, which one?
Petzl’s extensive range covers many options, so
we’ve narrowed it down to three choices we think
are particularly suitable for winter usage.
Petzl Tikka RXP
The Tikka RXP features Petzl’s
unique Reactive Lighting
technology, which monitors light
and adapts output accordingly,
giving the right light when you
need it – automatically. It only
provides the power you need, so
the battery lasts longer. The TIKKA
RXP features two high-power LEDs
giving wide, mixed or focused
beams and maximum light output
of 215 lumens. There are three
reactive lighting levels: Max Power
with power prioritised, Standard
for power/battery life balance, and
Max Autonomy to prioritise battery
life. Constant ‘static’ lighting can
also be selected, and there’s a
guaranteed minimum burn time so
you know exactly how long your
lighting will last. The Lithium-Ion
battery is rechargeable via USB or
mains power; standard AAAs can
also be used.
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Petzl Tikka XP
The Tikka XP is a true all-rounder,
combining light weight and a
compact design with significant
power. Rated at 120 lumens, there
are three beam options: flood for
close-in lighting, combined with a
focused beam for movement, and
pure focused beam for distance.
It also has a Boost mode, offering
temporary access to 160-lumen
maximum power, and red lighting
and strobe mode. Constant
Lighting technology means that
power output remains constant,
not decreasing gradually as the
batteries are drained. There’s also
a phosphorescent reflector in the
lens that allows location in the
dark when switched off.
winter safety
Petzl e+LITE
Designed as an ultra-compact
emergency or back-up headtorch,
the tiny e+LITE can actually be left
in your rucksack all year round.
Features two brightness levels
as well as red and white strobe
modes, is waterproof to -1m, and
weighs just 26g. Lasts up to 70
hours on a single lithium battery,
with a shelf life up to 10 years. The
latest model now features a ZIPKAstyle retractable cord and uprated
performance, with output now 26
lumens and range improved to
29m max.
Image: Andy Airey
L
ifesystems’ Mountain Survival range contains
items considered by mountain rescue services to
be essential in case of an emergency. If you have an
accident, or are lost, it is vital to try to find shelter,
stay warm and do everything possible to help
rescuers find you.
The Lifesystems range includes fabric shelters
known as ‘bothies’, thermal protection aids and
more specialised items for your personal safety.
Exposure to extreme cold, wet and windy conditions,
particularly when stationary on a mountain, can cause
hypothermia and serious consequences.
In case of any emergency it is important to have the
basics available to you. Included in this range are the
Mountain bothies, which are available from 2-person
size to 8-person size.
Lightweight and extremely tough, with reflective
top strips, the Lifesystems bothies will protect you
from the elements until conditions improve or help
arrives. Or in less serious situations, they’re great for
a lunch-break on a blowy winter’s day. All Lifesystems
Mountain Survival products are tried and tested
regularly in extreme conditions.
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Equipment
Boots
Equipment
Winter Hardware
W
ith summer a memory and the trees devoid
of leaves, walking in the Lake District fells
becomes a more serious challenge. Days are shorter
and the weather colder and sooner than we think the
first winter snows cover the tops.
Amongst the most important aspects of your gear
is footwear. As the ground conditions change to icy
paths and snow and ice, then so should your footwear.
A number of years ago a boot grading system was
devised to help choose the correct boot for the
conditions.
The boot you choose will ultimately depend on how
it fits your foot. For the UK walker who wants to get
out on the hills all year round, on or off the footpaths
then the SL is a great choice. The performance of this
boot will give enough support to use with crampons
when you need them; for the final push to the summit
of Helvellyn, or for emergency use. But if you plan to
walk all day in crampons Scarpa would recommend the
greater support you get from the Manta.
Always think what you might need these boots for
in the future, as they will last a long time. Perhaps
you will go on to a winter skills course at Glenmore
BO Lightweight boots and shoes suitable for easy Lodge in Scotland or plan glacier walking on the Haute
walking conditions.
Route from Chamonix to Zermatt? If this is the case
B1 Hill walking boots designed for tougher year round although the SL may have been fine for your winter
Lakeland forays the Manta maybe your better choice
walking conditions.
- or positioned between the SL and Manta, consider
B2 Mountain walking boots with stiffer midsoles
the Rebel Light with new ‘sock fit’ XT construction, a
which give greater support when walking on modern lightweight hybrid B1/B2 boot.
difficult terrain.
B3 Mountaineering boots are typically used to climb
in the high mountains of the world but are also
used to climb in winter in Scotland, the Lakes and
Snowdonia.
Have a look at mountainboot.co.uk for more detailed
specifications of all the products mentioned in this
article - or call in at George Fisher.
W
alking in the Lakeland hills in winter can
be serious. Using and carrying the correct
equipment, clothing and emergency equipment
helps minimise the risks, but is no substitute for
experience, skill and fitness. If snow is on the
ground, or forecast, then an essential piece of kit
is an ice axe. An axe improves on the support and
balance of a trekking pole, and also can be used for
self-arrest, in case of a slip, or for chopping steps on
an icy path. They become essential as soon as you go
onto steeper slopes where their shaft or pick is used
for support and progress.
Ice axes can be divided into two types: B and T rated.
Walking axes that you would generally not use for
climbing or rope work are B rated, while Alpine and ice
climbing axes are T rated and have greater strength.
The Lakeland walker would normally choose a B rated
axe and both the Grivel Munro or Helix are ideal as
an entry level, occasional use tool. However if you
are planning more mountaineering or snow climbing,
the best choice would be the T rated Grivel Air Tech
Evolution axe.
By IFMGA Mountain Guide, Brian Hall
Most winter walkers in the Lakes would
choose a B1 or a B2 boot. A few years back
you would have been compelled to wear
heavy, stiff and uncomfortable boots. But with
recent advances in designs (better ankle flex)
and materials (lighter midsoles and PU/EVA
cushioned soles) these boots are lighter, more
agile and comfortable.
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Scarpa Manta
winter safety
Grivel Air Tech Evo
Scarpa SL Activ
Scarpa Rebel Lite
Grivel G10 New Classic
Crampons are another part of essential winter kit.
They are perhaps the most difficult to use as they
require the most skill and training. Remember the old
adage, ‘Crampons take a novice into danger rather
than safety!’ Learn how to use them by enrolling on a
course, or from your more experienced friends.
Again, crampons are graded: CI for walking, C2 for
mountaineering and C3 for climbing. It is best to
be advised by experienced shop staff as to which is
suitable for you, and if buying crampons it’s best to
take your boots with you to the shop.
Grivel would recommend the Lakeland walker using
SL boots and a Munro axe to look no further than the
Grivel G10, with the New Classic Binding System. This
binding system will fit on most boots. However if you
plan to climb gullies or easy alpine peaks (or in the
future start climbing more serious routes) the Grivel
Air Tech would be a good choice.
Grivel Munro
Two boots that, for good reason, have dominated
the UK winter walking market for the last 25 years
are the Scarpa SL (B1) and the Scarpa Manta (B2).
Over that time they have gained a reputation for
durability, performance and comfort based on
their Italian hand crafted manufacture.
Image: Lorenzo Belfrond
Let us hope that this winter gives us snow and crisp
cold clear weather. It is in these conditions that the
Lake District is one of the most beautiful places
in the world to walk and explore. Have a look at
mountainboot.co.uk for more detailed specifications
of all the products mentioned in this article - or call in
at George Fisher.
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Equipment
Winter Hardware
Equipment
Boots
F
W
or winter walking on frozen, icy but generally
straightforward paths, technical crampons can
be overkill. They’re easy to trip up in, and feel like
you’re walking on stilts. So if you know you’re only
walking on non-technical ground, consider Kahtoola
Microspikes, Microspike Quads, or the KTS Trekking
crampon.
MicroSpikes are lightweight trail crampons ideal for
snowed up paths - they fit onto almost any shoe or
boot in seconds to give extra traction on ice and
hard-packed snow. The traction is achieved by chains
and small spikes held firmly in place under the foot by
a rubber upper rand. Standard Microspikes have two
heel spikes, but Kahtoola Microspikes Quads have four.
It may not sound like a massive difference but with
twice as many spikes on the heel the grip is radically
improved allowing you to move with even more
confidence.
Kahtoola KTS crampons may not appear radically
different to other 10-point walking crampons. However,
closer inspection shows they are not only extremely
light and compact, but have some unique features
to enable them to operate with lighter, more flexible
footwear.
ell known amongst climbers and alpinists, La
Sportiva footwear will be worn by the world’s
top climbers whether they’re topping out on an
8,000m peak, or ascending the hardest
rock climbs.
It’s not just about the vertical world though;
La Sportiva also makes some of the best
winter walking boots at its factory in the
Italian Dolomites. These are true year-round
boots that will keep your feet warm and dry
on snow, rock or ice.
Another innovation is the forefoot strap cradle,
which is not connected to the strap on the heel. This
independent front and rear binding ensures that
footwear won’t slip out of the crampon regardless of
how much it is flexing.
Kahtoola products are primarily designed for winter
walking and are NOT recommended for use on technical
terrain. If in doubt, please consult with George Fisher
staff for the best option on Kahtoola products to fit
your footwear and meet your winter requirements.
The main difference with standard crampons is the
patented LeafSpring Extender bar that connects
the forefoot to the heel plate. This LeafSpring is
exceptionally strong and durable, allowing a high
degree of flex without deforming permanently.
KTS points are shorter than usual, making
them very stable and less prone to tripping
when negotiating rocky sections on paths. The
front two points are also set at a lower angle
to provide optimal performance. Combined
with more flexible footwear the benefit is a more
natural rolling action of the foot. This biomechanical
advantage allows a more efficient walking or running
stride in snow and icy conditions.
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The upper uses a combination of water-repellant
Cordura, Flex Tec 2, water-repellant Lorica and a
Vibram rubber rand. It also features a Gore-Tex lining
for maximum breathability and
waterproofness plus a dualdensity midsole to absorb
impact.
winter safety
La Sportiva Trango Alp GTX
Kahtoola KTS Crampons
La Sportiva Trango S Evo GTX
Kahtoola Microspikes
Kahtoola
Microspikes Quad
Two of the best-known La Sportiva boots are from
the ‘Trango’ family. The Trango S Evo GTX is a
classic lightweight 3 or 4 season boot uses a tough,
synthetic upper and a grippy sole to create a boot
that’s ideal for the mountains, especially where some
scrambling might be expected. The Vibram Mulaz
outsole uses sticky Supertrek rubber and features
a smooth toe section for better rock traction, while
the 3D Flex ankle provides excellent ankle freedom
of movement.
Developed from the Trango S Evo, the Trango
Alp GTX is more directed towards walking
and trekking, and differentiates itself with a
more aggressively lugged Vibram Sasslong
outer sole, a higher upper and a trekkingbased lacing system. This lightweight boot
mixes waterproofed Perwanger leather with
abrasion-resistant Flex Tec 2 to create an extremely
durable waterproof upper, and also features a GoreTex lining for breathability and waterproofness. The
dual-density midsole features La Sportiva’s Impact
Brake System technology to absorb impact and
improve traction, especially on descents.
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Equipment
Boots
Equipment
First Aid Kits
S
erial innovator Salomon has come up with an
intriguing new footwear technology that’s
completely unique.
The S-LAB X Alp Carbon GTX heads up a range of light
mountaineering footwear that is causing a revolution.
Developed through a collaboration with professional
guides, rescue teams and athletes, it’s a design that
you can use from the bottom of the mountain, to the
top and back.
The X Alp range is the result of more than 40
progressive prototypes. Up to now, ascents in the
mountains might have required several pairs of
shoes: a light, flexible pair for the lower flanks of the
mountain; an approach shoe; and also a more rigid pair
of boots for edging, mixed rock, and crampon use up
higher.
small ledges, or snow. With its light weight, dedicated
mountain Contagrip sole and a GORE-TEX lining, the
S-LAB X Alp Carbon GTX works both for the approach,
and higher on the mountain as it will accept a crampon.
“This might be the most tested design we’ve ever
developed”, explains Anne Deroulede, product line
manager for Salomon footwear. “We’ve had more than
40 testers and dozens of prototypes for over two years,
and finally we have the ultimate footwear for a new
generation of mountaineers.”
Alongside the X Alp Carbon, George Fisher is stocking
the S-LAB X Alp Mountain GTX, a more conventionallooking boot using the X Alp edging chassis concept
to give flexibility and versatility, but with extra ankle
support and foot protection.
The S-LAB X Alp Carbon GTX changes all this because
it is light and flexible, but provides outstanding
edging. The key is in Salomon’s patented ‘carbon
edging chassis’, a unique plate built into the sole
providing fore-aft flexibility but lateral stiffness.
It gives the flexibility and comfort to walk fast on
easier terrain, but a solid edge for security on
I
t’s advisable to carry a first aid kit whenever you
venture into the hills, and ideally you’ll have at least
some basic first aid skills in case of an emergency.
In winter there’s potentially even more scope for
accidents, with the chance of falls or coming into
contact with spiky gear like axes and crampons.
So a well-equipped, tough first aid kit is an essential
piece of gear. Together with mountaineers and
expedition medics, Lifesystems have carefully designed
and equipped their packs to suit your activity and to
make it easy to locate and administer first aid in an
emergency, whatever the conditions.
The Lifesystems outdoor and travel first aid kits contain
specifically chosen items to cover a wide range of
common trekking and mountaineering injuries. To
produce the best kits possible they have worked closely
with the world’s leading mountain and emergency
medical teams to ensure that the internal contents of
each of their first aid kits are the best they can be.
In particular, their lightweight and waterproof kits are
aimed at anyone needing a durable pack, but who may
be conscious of weight and size. These versions contain
everything you would expect from a Lifesystems first
aid kit, neatly wrapped in a watertight bag weighing the
bare minimum.
We recommend the following Lifesystems first aid
kits. The Trek is ideal for dealing with small accidents,
providing essential first aid items for treating cuts,
grazes, blisters and other minor injuries. The Waterproof
First Aid Kit is made from tough, waterproof material
and you don’t need to worry about protecting it from
rain and snow. And the higher specified
S-LAB X Alp Carbon GTX
Mountain First Aid Kit has been put together with the
help of members of the British Special Forces medical
team, and is designed for use when professional medical
care may be some distance away.
S-LAB X Alp Mountain GTX
17
winter safety
18
Equipment
Boots
Equipment
Essentials
A
t George Fisher we’re continually on the lookout
for brands and products that offer better
performance, and that’s why we were one of the
first retailers to pick up on Asolo’s return to the UK
market. This is a family-owned company based in
Italy’s boot-making centre at the base of the Italian
Alps, and their footwear combines the strength
of traditional boot maker’s skills with modern
technologies. All their boots and shoes have a
distinctive design, targeted at the mountain user.
What impresses us in particular is that Asolo maintains
an iron grip on product quality with fastidious
attention to detail throughout the production processthe boots we stock are made in their own factories
in Italy and Romania. We really like Asolo’s 3-season
fabric/leather trekking boots like the men’s Symbio
and women’s Fission because of their outstanding fit.
The Tribe GV is an ideal multi-day 4 season walking
boot, with a water-resistant Perwanger leather upper,
Gore-Tex lining, moulded EVA midsole, and Radiant
outsole design – which gives you enhanced grip and
comfort for long distance journeys.
What stops you from slipping on wet leaves and
slushy paths?
The Radiant sole, developed in conjunction with
Vibram®, offers outstanding performance and
grip, with aggressive heel cleats and an Aso-brake
system to enhance grip on steep descents.
The forefoot design offers increased protection
and support for the foot, with a moulded EVA
midsole which controls pronation and offers high
levels of comfort.
The men’s Symbio
GV and Women’s
Fission GV boots are
great alternatives
to the traditional
leather walking
boot, and perfect
for those looking for
a lightweight and
versatile 3-season
boot that doesn’t
compromise on
technical features.
The Symbio GV and
Fission GV have
Asolo’s patented
Radiant outsole, as
well as a waterresistant suede
upper, and a highly
breathable Gore-Tex
lining.
Moulded EVA midsole improves
foot control and stability
Asolo Vibram® Radiant rubber outsole
improves grip during steep descents
19
winter safety
Asolo Symbio GV
B
Asolo Tribe GV
eing on the fells in winter means being exposed
to all kinds of weather – most of it wet. And
as anyone will tell you, most rucksacks aren’t
waterproof – and even with those that are, you still
might need to open them in a downpour!
Exped Fold-Drybags are ideal for keeping your
equipment dry - from spare clothing to your valuables.
They are incredibly lightweight and waterproof storage
bags with fold-top closure.
Asolo Fission GV
They are made from durable and pliable PU-coated
taffeta nylon. Standard features include taped seams,
easy-squeeze buckles and a grab handle. Bright inner
PU coatings make it easier to see what’s inside.
It’s not just about waterproofing – it’s also about
organisation. Generally what you put in a dry bag is
dependent on personal preference, but to give you
a rough idea the XXS dry bag will hold your wallet or
a camera, the XS one your hat and gloves, the Small
perhaps spare underwear (just in case you get totally
wet through), and the Medium orange and Large blue
will take things like fleece or a down jacket. Some
people like all their clothing in one big bag while
others like to split the load into smaller ones; in fact
several small bags are easier to fit into a rucksack.
Exped also makes dry bags with clear windows, so you
can see what you’ve packed inside. Whichever version
you choose, you can be sure of having dry clothing at
the end of the day.
Exped Fold-Drybags available in sizes XXS (1 litre) to
XXL (40 litres), or buy a 4-pack of different sizes. You
can also get Rucksack Liners up to 80 litres.
20
winter skills courses Recommended by George Fisher
Shearwater Adventure
More than Mountains
S
hearwater Adventure offers a full range of
outdoor related courses - our aim is to give our
clients a personal, high quality, safe and enjoyable
adventure experience.
D
Being based in the Lake District provides us with
the perfect venue for our courses. On our doorstep
we have some of the UK’s best mountains for
climbing, mountaineering and navigation courses.
For winter we offer four levels of courses – Winter
Walking Skills 2-Day and 3-day courses, Winter
Mountaineering and Winter Climbing.
On a ‘More than Mountains’ winter mountaineering
course you can learn basic winter walking skills, go
on a winter mountaineering journey or climb some
classic winter routes.
The Winter Walking Skills courses provide the
summer hill walker with all the skills required
to make a safe transition to winter hill walking
- covering winter navigation, boot and crampon
techniques, use of the ice axe, avalanche awareness,
winter weather, winter clothing and equipment as
well as emergency shelters and procedures.
o you want to be able to enjoy the mountains
safely all year round? If so you need to learn
how to walk or climb when everything is covered
with ice and snow.
core winter skills and progressing on to rope
techniques, snow anchors and natural protection,
route finding etc.
Find out more at shearwateradventure.co.uk
Call 01768 800212 or email
[email protected]
If you want to go a step further, the Mountaineering
and Climbing courses will see you learning the
techniques to climb gullies and routes, upgrading
21
winter safety
e x p e d i t i o n s
There is so much to learn and our highly qualified,
experienced and friendly instructors will teach you
everything you need to know. We can show you
the right equipment to take with you and how to
use it effectively. You will learn how to interpret
weather and avalanche forecasts to make sure
your route choice for the day is appropriate and
can be completed safely. We will also give you tips
on how to navigate in winter and how to check for
avalanche risk when you are out and about.
We run our winter mountaineering courses both
in the Lake District and Scotland. We run open
courses on set dates, and private courses designed
specifically for you and your group on the dates of
your choice.
Set courses include the basic Winter Skills Course
(for winter beginners), our Winter Mountaineering
Course, and then the Winter Climbing Course.
See our website for more details:
morethanmountains.co.uk
Or contact us on:
[email protected]
Or call 07984 410230
22
Published by George Fisher Limited, 2 Borrowdale Road, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DA
Tel: 017687 72178
Website: www.georgefisher.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Editor: Clive Allen | Design: MountainCreative.co.uk | Cover images: Stuart Holmes
@georgefisheruk
/georgefisheruk