Mera Peak

Mon, 01/25/2010 - 16:10 — misty

Hello :-)
I am venturing to the Himalaya for the first time. Im going to Mera Peak and im after advice on clothing systems and the usual loo help from other women who have experience?!
Im looking to wear icebreaker thermals with the Rab power stretch set. Then gor tex trouser possibly mountain equip ama dablam? With a down jacket.
Am i thinking around the right type of gear?
What devices have other women used when on the mountain. Im not shy but dont want to be really cold trying to go?!!

Thanks :-)

‹ I need help Is My Everest still Up? ›

Right Track

taloeffler — Sun, 01/31/2010 - 14:23

Hi,

It seems as though you are on the right track. You'll want a layering system of synthetic and/or merino wool to be able to cope with a wide variety of temperatures and weather. I like having a small "puffy" jacket in addition to my down parka that I pull off and on at breaks. I usually use my down parka in camp or way up high. I tend to run warm though.

I have used a "pee whiz" or a "she pee". Basically they are both urinary funnels that allow women to pee standing up. They take some practice so I suggest getting on early and practicing. They allow you to pee quickly with a climbing harness on-very handy. They can be inserted through pant flies or through "rainbow" zippers. They sometimes leave flies off women's shell layers so I often look for men's pants or through the crotch zippers (rainbow). If you go the rainbow route, you can often forgo the funnel and pee directly down but you need to have openings in all your layers for this to work.

Good luck,

TA

Womens gear

Fiona Adler — Tue, 02/09/2010 - 03:17

Hi Misty - I agree that you are on the right track. Icebreakers and power stretch are expensive (well they are in Aust anyway) but they're well worth it. Good to have a lightweight synthetic shirt and pants as well to allow for days that are hot - but don't let you fry in the sun. When its cool, you can wear thermals under them or a fleece on top. I've also used the "Shee Wee" - which I agree is great. Keep it in a snap-lock bag, along with some wipes in another bag (for cleaning your hands as much as anything). Here's a full list of what I used on Everest - http://www.adlers.com.au/equipment.php - although it may be a bit out of date.
All the best,
Fiona