Your first layer! Base layers are worn next-to-skin to provide warmth and move moisture away from your body. Base layers can be made of Wool or Synthetic materials - Wool retains its warmth when wet and has natural anti-odor properties.Synthetics are lightweight, dry quickly and can be more abrasion resistant. We reccommend the Rho Heavyweight Base layers for cold days. The Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro stretches for outstanding freedom of movement. During rest phases – or when it gets really cold – the fleece’s soft brushed interior traps heat to keep you warm.

insulation and fleece provide warmth while also dissipating heat. Its primary role is to keep you warm and to regulate your temperature though breathability. When selecting insulation type, consider weight and weather conditions. For ice climbing, our pick would be the Proton Hoody or Kyanite Hoody.

Proton - Made for climbers, the Proton Hoody is the go-to breathable insulation layer. 80gsm PrimaLoft Gold Active Vent insulation works with the air-permeable face fabric and liner to regulate temperature and vapour build-up. 

Kyanite - Its thermal performance, durability, and soft comfort let it shine as a midlayer or standalone. Polartec Power Stretch Pro has a nylon face for abrasion resistance, and its four-way stretch combines with articulated patterning for exceptional freedom of movement. The streamlined fit layers easily under a shell, a low-profile ScubaHood adds warmth, and the soft brushed interior wicks moisture.

Shells are the most weather protective layer. Evaluate your environment, expected output level and typical conditions when making your selection. GORE-TEX shells are fully waterproof, windproof and breathable.Windshells are lighter weight, wind and weather resistant. Best suited to dry conditions, or minimal precipitation. Softshell refers to a four-way stretch textile with a durable weather resistant outer surface. We reccommend the GORE-TEX Alpha SV and Beta AR Pants for Michigan Ice Fest.

Alpha SV Jacket - The iconic Alpha SV has long proven itself in the most severe alpine conditions. Breathable GORE-TEX PRO with Most Rugged Technology is paired with our most durable face fabric for incredibly long-lasting storm protection.

Beta AR Pants - The Beta AR Pant delivers waterproof, windproof, breathable protection for comfort across changing conditions and activity. The GORE-TEX PRO delivers maximum durability.

Belay jackets and pants are designed to be your outermost layer when to keep you warm while you are belaying. They are essential for added warmth on cold days when you're standing still and creating less body heat.

Alpha Parka - Our warmest belay parka is built for the harshest conditions. RDS-certified 850-fill goose down’s outstanding warmth is complemented with mapped synthetic insulation for added breathability in moisture-prone areas. Exceptionally breathable 2L GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ with ultralight, ultra-durable Hadron® face fabric blocks wind and resists water while adding warmth equivalent to 100g of down.

Nuclei Pant- Light, packable, and built for belays – or anywhere exposed to biting cold – the Nuclei Pant keeps you warm. Two weights of Coreloft, 80g from waist to knee and a lighter-weight 60g at the lower leg, insulate. 

Highly dexterous, highly articulated climbing glove for technically demanding ice routes.

Designed for all the ways you climb, AR-395a uses Warp Strength Technology™ to disperse pressure and provide flexibility for freedom and comfort no matter the route. Adjustable leg loops tailor the fit, and the four gear loops, rear haul loop and four ice clipper slots provide plenty of rack space. This is the harness where versatility, comfort and performance converge.

The blended material combines warmth, comfort and durability. Six dart construction creates a secure, comfortable fit. This is a warm, versatile hat that fits easily under a helmet for added warmth. 

Cold hands are one of the hardest parts about ice climbing. It's important to have a an extra pair of thick, warm gloves to wear for all the times you're not climbing or belaying. The Beta Down gloves are built for snow, wind, sleet, and cold. They're light, packable, and have a water-repellent PFAS-free GORE-TEX outer for breathable protection and responsibly sourced 750-fill goose down for warmth. The patterning mimics the hand for dexterity and comfort, and a TPU overlay on the thumb and fingertips improves grip.