4 essentials to summit Kilimanjaro

Posted by Matt Sterne on 8 July 2019

‘Kilimanjaro is the most popular of the world’s seven summits (the highest mountain on each continent) primarily because it’s the most attainable. You don’t need ropes, special gear or even any previous mountaineering experience. This does not mean, however, that it’s easy or risk-free,’ writes Getaway’s gear editor, Matthew Sterne, about his experience of climbing this mountain.

This is his pick of essential gear for climbing Kilimanjaro:

Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX BOOTS

These are waterproof, super comfortable (due to the Ortholite footbed) and provide great support and grip with the help of a high-traction Contagrip sole. No blisters, no slipping, no brainer.

R3 299, salomonsports.co.za

Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Boots. Image: Supplied.

Osprey Talon 33L Backpack

While this bag is extraordinarily light and has many useful pockets, the best feature is
the peripheral framesheet that transfers the load evenly across the Airscape mesh back panel and keeps you cool.

R1 999, adventureinc.co.za

Osprey Talon 33L Backpack. Image: Supplied.

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles

These weigh just 250 grams, have comfortable foam grips and fold into three parts to fit in your luggage.

R2 750, rammountain.co.za

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles. Image: Supplied.

Black Diamond Glissade Gloves

Your hands really feel the cold on the summit and decent gloves are important. With a fixed fleece liner, Kevlar-reinforced goat-leather palms and a waterproof insert, these gloves worked perfectly.

R1 195, rammountain.co.za

Black Diamond Glissade Gloves. Image: Supplied.

Feature image: Matthew Sterne