Clothing List

For the most part, cotton is not a suitable material for clothing that is used for backcountry trips. It holds moisture, is slow to dry, and does not keep you warm when wet. Cotton may be an acceptable substitute if you have no alternative, but you must bring extra of those items so that you can have a dry change of clothes. Please discuss this issue with trip leaders before making the decision to bring cotton clothing substitutions. Ideally, clothes made of wool and synthetic materials should be used instead of cotton.

A system of layering is the best way to be prepared for outdoor activities.

Layer	Purpose	Items
1. Base layer	wicks moisture away from skin	long underwear, sock liners
2. Insulating layer	Provides warmth	sweaters, hat, gloves, warm socks
3. Shell layer	protect from wind, rain, snow	waterproof jacket and pants

Specific Items Required

· Boots	- leather, or fabric with Gore-tex (waterproof)
· Socks - 2 pair of each 1. Liner sock 2. Outer sock	- polypropylene (such as Bergelene or Capelene) - wool or synthetic
· Long Underwear (top and bottom) - 1 pair each	- polypropylene (light or medium weight)
· Sweaters – 2	- wool, or synthetic fleece such as Polartec *
· Rain Pants or Wind Pants	- waterproof or water repellent (lightweight)
· Warm hat	- wool or synthetic
· Shorts - 1 pair	- nylon
· T-shirt – 1	- cotton OK
· Underwear - 1 or 2 pair	- cotton OK

Remember if you need to substitute cotton for any of the above items, you must bring extra and discuss it with a trip leader first. If you decide to purchase any of the above items, you should start with one pair of polypropylene underwear, 1 pair of polypropylene sock and 1 pair of wool socks. These item are very useful for year round outdoor activities.

* Fleece sweaters may be provided for you by Breakfree.