ATOT mountain climbers unite

[Pantlegz]

I'm planning a vacation to Colorado this June and I expect to be climbing at least one 14er(Huron peak). I know it's going to be colder once I get up top but what kind of gear should I get? Just a heavy coat? Some UA coldgear and a hiking coat/pants? Something in between? I don't mind spending money on what I need but I would rather not spend $500 on clothes I'm going to use once to climb one mountain.

I tried this in H&F and didn't get much feedback...

 

[illusion88]

Huron peak isn't a climb, it's a hike. You are hiking to the top, not climbing.

The first thing you need is good hiking boots. A pair of light hikers could do this hike just fine. I prefer heavy hiking boots with lots of ankle support. Real heavy duty boots. June is still cold in the upper parts of the mountains, but if it's sunny you can still hike in shorts. You would need something ot protect you from the wind if you want to stay comfortable. A wide brim hat wouldn't be a bad idea either. I would also bring a rain layer in your backpack.

The most important thing is the boots though.

 

[tailes151]

You don't really *need* anything besides a good amount of water. A nice pair of hiking boots and a wind breaker would be nice. Also a few snacks and sunscreen.

That said I've hiked a couple 14'ers in CO in tennis shoes and still managed just fine.

 

[GoSharks]

Any idiot can hike up a class 2 14'er such as Huron.

 

[Pantlegz]

Any idiot can hike up a class 2 14'er such as Huron.

No shit? It didn't look very hard, just want to make sure I'm clothed properly for when I get up top. don't want to climb in short and freeze and I don't want to spend money and look like an idiot in 10 layers of clothes if it's not going to be too cold.

Thanks guys, I'll just get a decent wind breaker and some hiking shoes... Might use it as en excuse to get some UA too.

 

[tailes151]

Shorts may be a bit chilly at the top, but you could probably tough it out that way if you wanted to. Jeans work fine, or you could get some nice hiking pants if you really wanted.

 

[Jzero]

Depends how cold it's supposed to be. For a low in the 30s, I usually wear 4 layers (base, t-shirt, shell, light jacket) which keeps me warm enough for the approach in the early morning, but is light enough to remove and stow once I'm out in direct sun and my heart is pumping a little more.

If it's warmer I may skip the shell or jacket and use a short-sleeve base.

I always pack an extra pair of socks (and shoes if I have pack space) in a plastic bag. If it rains and my feet get soaked, it's so nice to be able to put on warm, dry footwear for the hike back!

 

[2dt Drifter]

Wear layers that can be stripped off. Don't wear cotton, ie wear an undershirt that can breathe, sports socks and a waterproof shell.. Thunderstorms and light rain can happen within the blink of an eye. Hydration pack with a least 2 liters of water and a camera. you're golden like the oldies bro.

 

[Gooberlx2]

Convertible cargo pants are really useful for hiking the higher elevations. Definitely bring a shell for rain and wind. Sunblock, is good to have as well.

You don't need to spend $$$ on "cold" gear, but expect some snow to be present and temps to fall to freezing or below at dawn/dusk (at the summit).

Have a look at hiking reports and see what people are wearing in the posted pics.