Winter Skills Week (5 days)
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Would you like to be able to cope in a whiteout, become proficient with an ice axe and crampons, dig a snow hole and learn avalanche avoidance? Then OutdoorLads' Winter Skills events are just for you!
We've teamed up with mountain professionals Pure Outdoor who have been providing winter skills training in the Cairngorms since 2005.
A Winter Skills Week is the perfect quick hit where you'll gain experience of using all of the skills required for ice axe and crampon use, winter navigation and avalanche awareness and avoidance. You'll combine the training of these skills with some great days out in the Cairngorms. This event will suit anyone looking to get stuck into winter hillwalking for the first time.
Complimentary helmet, ice axe and crampon hire is included. All you need to arrange is your accommodation.
If you can't spare five days, have a look at our Winter Skills Weekend.
What to bring
Winter Skills Kit List
Here are a few notes that may help you with your Winter Skills Kit List. Basically, your normal British Summer Kit (i.e. a really good set of waterproofs) are essential with some extras to make life more comfortable. Sometimes the weather is really tough going in the Scottish Winter – It pays to have a good read of these notes and see what you can gather together before traveling up! If you have any queries with anything on the list, or think you may not be able to get hold of anything – do let me know. I may have some in my spares stock!
Rucksack
For a winter walking day you will need a 35-45 litre rucksack. These generally are not waterproof. I always use a rucksack liner (this can be as simple as a plastic bag!).
Boots
For a winter skills course a B2 (stiff 4 season leather or plastic) boot is appropriate. They must have a stiff sole so that we can attach crampons.
Socks
You will need a good thick pair of socks and possibly a thin liner pair if it is very cold or for a better fit in your boots.
Gaiters
A decent pair gaiters is really useful.
Crampons
A pair of 12 point crampons that fit your boots is a great start – and essential! Anti-balling plates are essential. Make sure they fit before you arrive, we will of course be making sure the night before.
Axes
For our Winter Skills courses you will need a Winter Hillwalking Axe. Generally around 50-65cm long and generally straight shafted.
Helmet
These will be provided for the winter courses.
Goggles
These are an essential piece of kit for the Scottish hills.
Sunglasses, sun cream and lip balm If sun is forecast these are very important.
Water bottle or flask
It is important to stay hydrated out on the hill and sometimes non insulated bottles do freeze.
Compass and maps
Maps will be provided – Bring a compass.
Head torch and Spare batteries
A halogen or super bright LED type is best.
Waterproof jacket and trousers
These should be breathable, waterproof and hardwearing. Very lightweight gear will easily rip in the winter mountain environment. Make sure you can fit your trousers over your boots
Thermal base layer
A thin synthetic or wool thermal top is essential and if it is very cold a pair of thermal long johns.
Fleece Layers
2 fleece layers for your upper body and a pair of fleece trousers or salopettes. If you get cold easily perhaps add a fleece gilet or waistcoat to your layering. Having an extra fleece top in a waterproof liner at the bottom of your rucksack is essential.
Gloves
It is very important to look after your hands in winter. A thin pair, a thick warm waterproof pair and a pair of thick mittens will often all be used in one day on the Scottish Hills. I often carry about 5 pairs – it’s a measure of a successful day!
Hats
A fleece or thin woolen balaclava and hat are essential.
Mobile phone and waterproof case
Although reception is not always good on the hills, a mobile phone can be very useful.
Trekking poles
These are non-essential but for some big days on the hills they will help to look after your knees.