If you’re planning to climb Mont Blanc, preparation is essential. At 4,809 metres, it is the highest peak in the Alps. Mountaineers attempting the ascent need solid high-altitude mountain experience, thorough physical and mental preparation, and the right equipment. To help you take on the challenge in the best possible conditions, this article explains what to wear to climb Mont Blanc.
Dressing the Upper Body
The base layer
As with hiking and mountaineering in general, it’s best to follow the three-layer system when climbing Mont Blanc. Your thermal base layer wicks away sweat and retains the heat your body produces. Temperatures are very low at high altitude, so we recommend a thick, long-sleeved base layer. For the fabric, choose merino wool or a hybrid base layer.
The Mid-Layer
While you’re moving, you can wear a synthetic fleece as your second layer. It retains its insulating properties even when damp. When you stop, switch to a warmer second layer to keep the cold out. An insulated jacket works well and packs down into your rucksack.
The Outer Layer
For mountaineering on Mont Blanc, you need a protective hardshell jacket. A three-layer jacket is recommended for this activity. Its construction provides strong protection against abrasion, wind, rain and snow. When choosing your outer layer, look for a jacket with a shorter front hem or a two-way zip so it doesn’t interfere with your harness.
Dressing the Lower Body
Thermal base layer
For your lower body on Mont Blanc, we recommend a three-quarter-length thermal base layer. It helps retain warmth in such cold conditions.
Mountaineering trousers
Your mountaineering trousers need to protect you from the weather, provide warmth and remain breathable. Choose a pair with reinforcements at the lower legs and articulated knees. Wear gaiters with your trousers to protect your feet from snow and cold.
Waterproof overtrousers
Made with three-layer fabric, your overtrousers provide extra protection. The robust fabric is highly waterproof and resistant to abrasion from rock. They come into their own when you cross deep snow or face bad weather.
Essential accessories for Mont Blanc
The beanie or balaclava
Protecting your head, especially your ears, is essential at high altitude. Wear a beanie or balaclava under your mountaineering helmet to guard against the cold. Pack another to wear when you take your helmet off. A beanie designed for mountaineering is a good choice: it provides better insulation, particularly around the ears, which are especially vulnerable to cold and frostbite.
Gloves
You’ll also need several pairs of gloves for Mont Blanc. Use a thin pair for the approach walk. For the ascent, you can switch to gloves with a warm lining. You may also want to pack a heavier pair for when you reach the summit.
Choosing what to wear for a Mont Blanc ascent matters. You need quality technical kit to climb in the right conditions. In 2017, the municipality of Saint-Gervais introduced mandatory minimum equipment for the ascent of Mont Blanc. This includes a waterproof jacket, overtrousers and a beanie. You also need proper mountaineering equipment: mountaineering boots, crampons, a harness, crevasse rescue kit, rope, ice axe, altimeter and more.
