Mountain climbing is challenging and exciting especially during the winter months when cold weather gear and thick skins are required to make it through the tough conditions. This is when jackets from Arcteryx, Marmot or North Face can come in handy, even if it appears to be fairly warm during the day. Long climbs and overnight climbing trips require layers that can be added or taken off and stowed away when the temperature changes. Vests and helmets are also important to consider during cold weather climbs.



Every cold weather mountain climbing outfit should begin with a thermal bottom layer of briefs and a long sleeved tee, topped by specialized climbing shirt and pants made for these conditions. With this layer in place, you will find that the jacket is the most important piece of clothing in cold climbing locations. Light windbreakers for ladies such as the Arcteryx Griffon Jacket are perfect for cool weather; they keep the chill off and provide protection from sunburn. The North Face Volt Jacket is a good choice for cool weather without snow and rain, since it's lightweight and simple. For guys, jackets such as the Marmot DriClime are a good choice.

Extreme cold weather jackets should be lightweight yet insulated and allow for easy movement. A warm weather location can turn cold after the sun goes down, so it's good to find a compact jacket that easily fits in a climbing pack during the day. A vest is another option to keep the chill off the torso without affecting the arms as long as it isn't blistering cold. The jacket will only be necessary during extreme cold weather or while you are on your way to the mountain, since you want to avoid hindering your shoulders and upper body unnecessarily.

During cold or warm weather, helmets will always be an important accessory, although they are often neglected by climbers. A good helmet can prevent catastrophic injury during falls and rock slides while providing protection from sun burn.