You can experience all kind of weather on the Tour du Mont Blanc so good quality kit is essential. Mountain weather is unpredictable so you need to be fully prepared for sun, wind, rain, thunderstorms and snow. It isn't unusual to experience snow on the high ground during all of the summer months.
We suggest that a layering system so you can easily regulate your body temperature whilst ascending or descending.
A Goretex (or similar) jacket and trousers Waterproofs are essential and need to be lightweight and breathable and they need to be carried at all times even with a good forecast.
Warm clothing is another requisite. A range of warm layers depending on the conditions and gloves and warm hat as conditions can change rapidly. A thermal, wicking base layer is recommended for comfort and ease of laundering.
Footwear needs to be supportive and with a good grip as the terrain can be variable, rocky, steep and loose. Sometimes we encounter loose ground or scree type terrain and it is not uncommon to be walking through snow and heavy rain even during the summer. Boots are recommended, however, there are currently some very good summer walking/ trail shoes available, which can be more comfortable on hot summer days.
Walking poles are essential in our eyes, they aid stability and take the strain off your knees on the long and steep descents.
All your equipment should be suitable for walking on rugged paths at high altitude where the conditions can be extremely variable from hour to hour even during the summer months. As mentioned above on the Tour du Mont Blanc you can experience extremes of weather in one day from hot sunny conditions to heavy rain and snow so you need to be prepared.
You can take a look at our kit list to help you pack for your trek and if you require any additional information please get in touch.
