From the early 90s onward, we’ve brought expedition-ready apparel and equipment to the South African market. Performance tested on Everest, Kilimanjaro and Antarctica, our gear has stood the test of extremes. January is all about setting new goals and resolutions - make this year your next great adventure. Read on for our expedition kit list below.
Outershell: Malamute Down Snow Jacket
Hand stuffed with RDS certified down in Cape Town, the Malamute is the perfect identifier for South African explorers worldwide. Worn by scientists at the South Pole, Sibusiso Vilane on Everest, and Ian Johnson on his expeditions photographing snow leopards, you’ll stay warm and safe in this staple jacket.
Top layer: Vertex Expedition Jacket & Avalanche Ski Pants
Your shield against the elements, the Vertex Jacket features a durable eVent waterproof and windproof outer shell (20,000mm water column rated) and advanced insulation, guaranteeing warmth and protection in the most challenging environments. No matter the physical exertion at hand, its Direct Venting technology assists with breathability and moisture management, making this jacket the ideal rainwear jacket for expeditions with unpredictable weather forecasts.
Pair it with our rugged Avalanche Ski Pants, made with Vapourtex technology, which offers breathable waterproof cover, and internal gaiters - ensuring no snow gets into your boots, even when treading through deep snow.
Mid layer: K2 Powerfleece Range
The K2 Powerfleece range features our highly advanced Powerstretch fabric. Its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, as well as thermal and moisture-wicking properties, make this range a must-have essential for extreme cold.
Baselayers: Polypropylene
Ultralightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking, baselayers are the definitive choice when you want to retain body heat whilst staying dry. The Polypropylene blend offers odour control and complete flexibility, so you can keep exploring without restrictions.
Peak 3 Person 4 Season Tent
The Peak is a four-season tent with a unique pole design configuration for extra stability in extreme conditions. A zipped window in each vestibule area allows for wind draft control through both side doors, and both sides are equipped with snow skirts that protect you from snow and wind. It’s our warmest tent, for the coldest, most extreme weather.
Blue Wolf Down Sleeping Bag
The Blue Wolf Down Sleeping Bag is no joke - it’s made for the serious mountaineer who plans on spending some quality time with Mother Nature's dark side. Comfort rated to -15°C, and transition rated to -25°C, this sleeping bag will keep you warm in some of the coldest environments.
125L Yak Sac Duffel Bag
Our 125L Yak Saks are expedition-ready - perfectly sized to be ported. If you’re strapped for weight, we also offer smaller sizes. It features many handy pockets, as well as backpack straps for easy carrying.
Velocity Ski Gloves
Designed to be used in the subzero conditions found when hiking, skiing or snowboarding, this completely waterproof snow glove with Thinsulate Insulation will keep your hands toasty.
With your kit ready, perhaps you’re the next to go down in history as a great adventurer. Ensuring you stay warm, dry, and protected against the extreme elements, this gear will work as hard as you do to reach that next goal, and our lizard Rocky will be cheering you on all the way!
Learn more about First Ascent’s history with amazing explorers.
View our other Kit Lists
Be sure to check out our other blogs on hiking trails and the best camping spots in South Africa!