With winter upon us, an important thing to remember is that it’s never about the right weather when you have the right gear. With our June 2023 Kit List, we’ve prepared a list of essentials to ensure you stay warm and comfortable on your next adventure.
Helio II 2 Person 3 Season Hiking Tent
The Helio II tent is a sturdy option to consider for the more intense spectrum of our 3 season conditions. High nylon walls and a dynamic design make the Helio a strong and warm tent for anything our South African conditions may throw at you.
Venus III 65L Hiking Pack
Our new Venus III 65L pack is the perfect adventure buddy, with an adjustable back system and a split-toe hip belt that ensures a proper fit. Internal accessibility from the outside, and a front stretch mesh pocket, make accessing and storing your gear seamless both inside and out.
Ultralight Insulated Mattress
The Ultralight Insulated Mattress not only saves you a significant amount of valuable space but ensures a comfortable night's sleep with an R-Rating of 2. Weighing only 400g, this is our best recommendation for multi-day excursions in winter.
Contour Sleeping Pad
The Contour Sleeping Pad should be a staple piece of kit on all your overnight/multi-day excursions. With an R-Rating of 2, and a multi-functional application, this not only improves the heat in your sleeping system but also offers a comfortable seat on the floor after a long day of trekking.
Ice breaker Down Sleeping Bag
The Ice Breaker is one of South Africa’s favourite sleeping bags and a First Ascent heritage item for good reason! This premium down sleeping bag is our go-to for temperatures between -3°C and -8°C. At 1.6kg, we cannot recommend this bag enough! Whether you’re a warm or cold sleeper, with the right base layers and clothing, this bag is bound to ensure your cosiest night in the mountains to date
Denali Down Bootie Slipper
After a long day in your boots, stepping into a warm and comfortable pair of down booties will keep your toes warm, and your feet happy.
Polypropylene Base Layers
A winter essential is your base layer system. Polypropylene is a mid-weight fabric that ensures moisture is directed away from the skin while retaining your body heat, making it warm and breathable. Its slim-fit design makes this great to wear in your sleeping bag, as well as on the trail.
Pair with: a warm pair of wool socks and a Rib Knit Beanie can make a significant difference in your overnight comfort.
Traverse Fleece Tops
Fleece is a winter must-have. The Traverse offers you warmth without the bulk of traditional fleece, keeping you warm and dry. We also love the colour!
Men's Traverse Fleece Pullover Top
Ladies Traverse 1/4 Fleece Top
We hope our June Kit List helps you prepare for your winter wilderness adventures. Stay warm out there!
Not sure where to go on your next adventure? Be sure to check out our other blogs on hiking trails and the best camping spots to visit in South Africa.