[pct-l] Ice Ax...Snow Shoes...

[ned at mountaineducation.org]

No need for snow shoes in the Sierra for thru hikers on consolidated snow 
with no new snow in the forecast.
Microspikes- good idea.
Traditional Crampons- bad and dangerous idea.
Instep crampons- a false sense of security on crusty traverses.
Kahtoola products- excellent
Ice axe- a Must, but know when and how to use it!!
Self-arrest poles (like the BD Whippet)- always when on mild to moderately 
steep and snowy traverses. Carry and use an ice axe instead when the going 
gets steeper!


"Just remember, Be Careful out there!"

Ned Tibbits, Director
Mountain Education
1106A Ski Run Blvd
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
    P: 888-996-8333
    F: 530-541-1456
    C: 530-721-1551
    http://www.mountaineducation.org
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "ron guay" <ron.a.guay2 at gmail.com>
To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
Sent: Friday, April 22, 2011 8:18 PM
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Ice Ax...Snow Shoes...


> After reading prior year posts from some of the experts...it sounds like 
> an
> ice ax may not be recommended for thru hikers and crampons clog up.  Given
> the potential snow levels this year...has that advice changed?  I've got 
> the
> microspikes going to WS...but was hoping to use my poles in place of an 
> ax.
> What about snowshoes?
>
> Also,  has anyone successfully hiked over the tough spots before KM this
> year?  I believe that would be Fuller and Baden...maybe others?
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