mountaineer

Person who climbs mountains.

ice ax

Small ax used by the mountaineer for cutting footholds, judging snow depth, gaining a firm grip in ice or hard-packed snow, etc.

pants

Waterproof pants that usually extend below the knee.

legging

Piece of sturdy waterproof fabric that covers the leg.

mountaineering boot

Sturdy shoe with spikes that is used to advance over snow or ice.

spike

Pointed object that provides balance and prevents slipping when the mountaineer is moving over snow or ice.

front point

Each of the front spikes; they are tilted at a 45° angle.

crampon strap

Strap used to attach spikes to the sole of the shoe.

ice screw

Threaded metal tube that is screwed into ice or hard-packed snow to help with belaying and advancing.

ice piton

Metal spike with a blade that is driven into ice or hard-packed snow; it ends in an eye to which a belay rope can be attached using a carabiner.

hammer ax

Hammer that doubles as an ice ax; it is used to drive in pitons, cut footholds, break ice on the rock face, etc.

mitten

Covering with a separation only for the thumb, providing better protection against the cold while allowing the wearer to grasp objects.

mountaineering shovel

Instrument used to dig and remove snow.

piton-carrier

Metal ring on which pitons are hung.

carabiner

Metal ring that opens and closes with a spring-loaded gate and that might be equipped with a locking device; it is used to attach rope to a piton, a chock, etc.

rope

Thin cable with a braided center core that makes it stretchy and strong and a woven sheath that surrounds and protects the core.

helmet lamp

Lamp that is attached to the helmet so that the mountaineer’s hands remain free.

chock

Metal device that is inserted into a crack in the rock face and held in place by tension; it is extended by a steel cable to which a carabiner can snap on.

climbing harness

Accessory connected to the belay rope that consists of a number of straps; it supports the mountaineer’s thighs and pelvis, back and sometimes shoulders.

parka

Waterproof sports jacket with long sleeves, a drawstring hood and waist and gathered wrists.

knapsack

Travel or hiking bag that is worn on the back and is used to transport clothing, camping equipment, etc.

hood

Headgear that covers the head and neck with an opening for the face.

helmet

Solid piece of equipment to protect the head from falling rocks or impacts with rock or ice.