Lesson 1Navigation and Communication Tools: Map/Compass/GPS Basics for Alpine Paths, Altimeter Use, VHF/PLB/Satellite Options and Battery PlansReviews tools for navigation and contact on alpine paths, covering maps, compasses, GPS, altimeters, plus VHF, PLB, satellite devices, focusing on backups, power sources, and handling cold weather battery drain.
Map and compass for alpine approachesGPS use, tracks, and waypointsAltimeter calibration and checksVHF, PLB, and satellite messengersBattery strategy in cold conditionsLesson 2Clothing and Layering for High Alpine Ice: Base Layers, Mid Layers, Outer Shells, Balance of Grip and WarmthOutlines clothing for cold alpine ice, including sweat-controlling base layers, active mid layers, protective shells, and glove systems that weigh hand agility against heat while avoiding moisture and quick cooling.
Moisture‑managing base layersActive insulation and mid layersShell jackets and softshell pantsGlove systems and dexterity tradeoffsManaging sweat, wind, and rest stopsLesson 3Emergency and First-Aid Kit Items: Trauma vs Wilderness Aid, Splints, Blister Treatment, Hypothermia Tools, Evacuation PacksSpecifies a small emergency kit for alpine ice, distinguishing injury care from wild issues, with supports, blister aids, cold exposure items, and light packs for makeshift extractions in steep areas.
Trauma supplies for bleeding controlSplints and immobilization optionsBlister prevention and treatmentHypothermia recognition and responseEvacuation packaging and littersLesson 4Footwear, Crampons, Gaiters: Boot Rigidity, Crampon Types (Step-In vs Hybrid), Anti-Snow Buildup Fixes and Fitting StepsExamines boots, crampons, gaiters for alpine ice, highlighting boot firmness, crampon attachments and fits, snow prevention methods, and a step-by-step fitting to avoid pressure points and losses.
Boot stiffness and insulation levelsStep‑in vs hybrid crampon bindingsFrontpoint shapes for WI3–WI4 iceAnti‑balling plates and maintenanceCrampon fit checks and adjustmentsLesson 5Ropes and Belay Tools: Single vs Half/Dual Ropes for Alpine Ground, Dry Coatings, Length Picks, Friction Tools for Descent and RappelLooks at rope options for WI3–WI4 alpine paths, contrasting single and half ropes, protective treatments, best lengths, and belay/rappel tools for thin, frozen ropes and quick multi-pitch changes.
Single vs half and twin rope systemsDry coatings and water absorptionRope diameter, length, and handlingBelay devices for thin icy ropesLowering, rappelling, and backupsLesson 6Packing and Weight Control: Grouping by Purpose, Reducing Exposure with Backups, Pre-Trip Gear ReviewsEmphasizes packing methods balancing safety and speed, organizing by use, cutting belay exposure, keeping vital duplicates, and pre-trip inspections to spot vital misses.
Grouping gear by function and phaseBalancing redundancy and minimalismPack layout for fast accessShared team gear and load splittingPre‑trip and pre‑climb gear checksLesson 7Ice Tools and Selection: Vertical vs Mixed Tools, Leash/No-Leash Choices, Pick Shapes, Spare Tool PlansExamines picking ice tools for WI3–WI4 routes, comparing upright and mixed styles, leash-free vs attached, pick forms and metal strength, and bringing extras or fix kits for far-off goals.
Vertical vs mixed tool geometryLeashless vs leashed configurationsPick profiles, teeth, and steelGrip rests and pommel ergonomicsSpare tools, picks, and hardwareLesson 8Harness, Helmet, Safety Items: Harness Fit, Leg Loops, Adjustable vs Fixed, Helmet Sizing and Replacement RulesDiscusses choosing and adjusting harnesses and helmets for extended ice days, covering sizes, tweaks, winter layer matches, check routines, and swap schedules for ease and crash safety.
Harness sizing over winter layersLeg loop styles and adjustmentGear loop layout for ice racksHelmet fit, coverage, and comfortInspection and retirement criteriaLesson 9Protection Gear: Ice Screw Varieties, Lengths, Materials; V-Thread/Abalakov Ropes; Alpine vs Sport Ice AnchorsDetails ice protection for WI3–WI4, including screw kinds, sizes, materials, v-thread ropes and tools, and creating firm alpine anchors unlike thick sport ice methods.
Steel vs aluminum ice screw optionsScrew lengths and rack compositionSharpening, caps, and storageV‑thread tools and cord selectionAlpine anchor strategies vs sport
