Your Ultimate Rainier Layerin Guide
March 2025
Are you planning an expedition to Mt. Rainier and don’t know where to start? We have you covered. Rainier is a great mountain to progress your mountaineering training. For most, it is an attainable peak, as long as you are able & willing to put the time and effort into your training. As with all climbing and outdoor activities, there is inherent risk. We highly recommend consulting a professional guiding service before embarking on dangerous activities such as mountaineering.
Essential Gear and Layering - What gear do you need to climb Mt. Rainier (Tahoma)?
Proper layering is crucial for comfort and safety on Rainier. You should be familiar with your layering system beforehand and practice in similar conditions to the climb before you pack your bag and head out the door. Get your gear early, and take it outside so you can see what layers work best for you. If you want help dialing in your layering system, or want us to recommend products based on a gear list sent to you by your guiding company, please send us an email at support@himali.com - we would be happy to offer you more personalized advice!
Top Tip: A lot of people get cold once they stop because 1) they stop generating heat and 2) they sweated through their base layers and are now wet. When you are climbing, take the time to take layers off as you warm up to avoid getting chilled!
Below is a recommend guide for the layers you would need to climb Mt. Rainier. This advice is based on our own personal experience & good layering principals, so you can easily extrapolate to other similar mountains.
Disclaimer: You are the one responsible for your own safety and wellbeing on the mountain. In any natural environment, a number of unforeseen circumstances may arise, and we are unable to predict all of them.
How to Use this Guide
Each section has a few different product options so you can pick what you need. Pick one item from each section to make up your full kit! Our gear was designed to layer together, so you should be the same size for the entire guide.
Upper Body Layering Guide
Base Layer - You will live in this on the mountain!
Your base layer should be quick drying, breathable, lightweight, and protect you from UV radiation.
We recommend our Eclipse Sun Hoodie as a base layer if you want optimal breathability with minimum dry time, and a hood for additional coverage. The Eclipse Sun Hoodie is UPF 20 and blocks 95% of UV rays.
The Pursuit Long Sleeve is slightly thicker, warmer, and is UPF 50+ (blocking 97% of UV rays) and is another great base layer option.
We have linked them both below, and for a more in depth comparison please see our Base Layer Guide linked here.
Lightweight Insulating Layer - For when you need a boost of warmth without compromising on breathability.
Your next layer is something that adds a touch more insulation, is breathable for tough ascents & high output activities, and dries quickly. This category is usually made up of fleeces.
For Rainier, we would recommend either the Endeavor Fleece or our Momentum Hoodie. We included a breakdown of all of our fleece styles below so you can pick what is right for you.
Our lightest fleece is the Limitless Grid Fleece - great for people that run warm or appreciate versatility & having a breathable lightweight layer that adds a touch of warmth.
The next lightest fleece is our Momentum Hoodie - it quick drying and comfortable for extended wear.
In the middle is the Mindset 1/4 Zip - a great multipurpose fleece that is just the right weight for most everyday mountain adventures
Our warmest fleece is the Endeavor Hoodie - designed by mountaineering legend Ed Viesturs as his go-to fleece for big expeditions & long travel days.
Mid weight Insulating Layer - Perfect for evenings at camp, higher up on the mountain, and the descent.
A mid weight insulating layer provides more warmth and protection than a lightweight one, making it suitable for colder temperatures and moderate activities. Mid weight layers offer increased insulation and are ideal for chilly days when you need extra warmth without the bulk of a heavy layer.
For Rainier, we would recommend an Ascent Hoodie for maximum breathability and weather resistance in the more humid Pacific Northwest. However, if you prefer the weigh savings and compressibility of a down jacket the Accelerator Down Jacket is a great fit for Rainer. Want to compare for yourself? Check out our Guide to HIMALI's Insulating Layers
Hardshell Jacket - Stay dry & warm when the rain & snow start dumping & the wind starts howling.
Hardshells are essential for wind and rain protection - getting soaked or having the wind cut though your layers can ruin an expedition. Do not skimp on this layer. The Monsoon Hardshell Jacket was designed to be a versatile mountaineering hardshell with features like a harness compatible hood, oversized harness compatible front pockets, and easy ventilation.
When comparing hardshell jackets, make sure you look for one that uses "3L" construction - this is short for "3 Layer" and refers to the middle waterproof membrane sandwiched between an exterior shell fabric and internal face fabric.
While 3L hardshells may come with a higher price tag, their superior performance and longevity make them a worthwhile investment for people who frequently engage in demanding outdoor activities or face extreme weather conditions (mountaineers, skiers, etc).
The Monsoon Hardshell is a 3L Waterproof Hardshell with 20k/20k waterproofing/breathability, a helmet compatible hood, harness compatible pockets, and a 2 way YKK zipper.
Expedition Parka - You might not need it, but if you do you will be happy you have it!
For extreme cold at higher altitudes, or cold nights at camp Muir. Our Altitude Parka is the perfect piece to add to your quiver. On warmer mid-summer expeditions this jacket may not leave your bag, but since it weighs just over 1lb, you will barely notice it is in your pack - until the cold or wind rolls in & you need the extra layer!
Bonus Layer - A good vest bridges the gap & adds versatility to your kit.
A good vest bridges the gap between a lightweight insulating layer and a mid weight insulating layer. It adds substantial warmth without a lot of weight, and vents quickly when you heat up. It is good for people that run warm to keep their core warm without overheating, and good for people that run cold as they have an extra boost of insulation.
Lower Body Layering Guide
Base Layer - Add warmth for nights at camp or colder conditions
Lightweight base layer bottoms help to regulate your temperature, wick moisure, and provide additional insulation when worn underneath climbing pants (softshell or hardshell) when the weather gets cold.
While thicker than some base layers, our Endeavor Fleece Pant is a great next-to-skin layer that wicks well & provides ample warmth. They can also be worn on their own as a solo layer for more casual hikes / at camp when you have good weather conditions when you do not need protection agains rain/snow/rock.
For Women, size down by 1 size for a comfortable jogger fit.
Soft Shell Climbing Pants - You will wear these every day on Rainier.
Softshell pants are a great gear choice for mountaineers, offering incredible flexibility, weather resistance, and durability in challenging alpine environments. These versatile pants provide exceptional comfort and range of motion while protecting against wind, light precipitation, and temperature variations, making them an essential piece of equipment for those embarking on a mountaineering expedition.
Our Guide Flex Pants were made with Rainier in mind. Breathable, Stretchy, and Water + Wind Resistant they are great for the majority of conditions you will encounter on the mountain.
They make for a great standalone layer, and for mid summer climbs on Rainer they may be the only pants you need. Depending on the conditions, you can add either the Endeavor Fleece Pant underneath for additional warmth, and the Monsoon Hardshell over the top for complete protection against wind rain and snow.
Insulating Pants
In the case of a cold snap, and for relaxing at Camp Muir, having a lightweight insulating pants is a great option, specially for expeditions earlier in the Spring or later in the Fall. The Ascent Pants are lightweight, warm, stretchy, and breathable 40g synthetic insulation pant that were designed with mountaineering in mind. They both fit over a mountaineering boot & are water + wind resistant for light protection against the elements.
Hardshell Pants - Stay dry & warm when the rain & snow start dumping & the wind starts howling.
The Monsoon Hardshell Pant is a 3L waterproof Hardshell made from a specialty 20K/20K fabric that maximizes both waterproofness. & breathability. They have a full length zipper along the side of the leg, allowing you to put the on / take them off while wearing boots and crampons if the weather acts up. The adjustable integrated waistband & lower leg reinforcements allow for comfort & durability through dynamic movements. They run true to size, but size up if you would like a more an oversize baggy fit.
Hardshells are essential for wind and rain protection - getting soaked or having the wind cut though your layers can ruin an expedition. Do not skimp on this layer.
When comparing hardshell jackets, make sure you look for one that uses "3L" construction - this is short for "3 Layer" and refers to the middle waterproof membrane sandwiched between an exterior shell fabric and internal face fabric. the outer shell fabric, the middle waterproof membrane sandwiched between layers of fabric
While 3L hard shells may come with a higher price tag, their superior performance and longevity make them a worthwhile investment for those who frequently engage in demanding outdoor activities or face extreme weather conditions.
Accessories & Other Gear
- Climbing Boots (crampon combatable, not hiking boots)
- Crampons
- Rope (may be provided by guiding service)
- Gloves (liner + waterproof insulating glove)
- Warm Hat (HIMALI Backcountry Beanie or HIMALI Skullcap)
- Glacier Goggles - it is important that they cover the sides of your face and offer complete protection.
- Sun Protection Hat (HIMALI Boulder Hat, HIMALI Guide's Mesh Back Hat)
- 2 Pairs of Socks (so one can dry out overnight)
- Helmet
- Ice Ax
- Hiking Poles (optional, but recommended)
- Harness
- Sleeping Bag + Pad
- Tent
- Stove + Pot + Fuel
- Water Bottles (2x 1L bottles recommended)
- A large pack to carry everything in
Nutrition & Hydration
What should I pack to eat on my expedition to Mt. Rainier?
Do not skimp on nutrition & hydration! This is not the time to try out a new diet - it is extremely important for your mental and physical performance to stay well fueled and well hydrated. You will be exerting a lot of energy during your climb, and it is important to bring enough nutrition. Pack items that are easy to eat, and that you enjoy! Focus on calorie dense options that provide a good mixture of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Your body burns a higher percentage of carbohydrates for fuel when at altitude, as well as when you are exercising - so bring on the carbs! We have some of our team favorite expedition foods listed below in case you would like suggestions:
- BoBos Oat Bars
- Nuts & Nut Butters
- Powdered Drink Mixes: Hot Chocolate, Instant Coffee, Powdered Tea, Electrolyte Mixes
- Turkey & Beef Jerky
- Meat Sticks (Chomps)
- Goldfish Crackers
- Avocados
- Instant Meals (Mountain House)
- Candy & chocolates
- Honey Stinger Waffles
- Instant Ramen
Top Tips for Success
- Start training early, ideally several months before your climb
- Practice with your gear before the climb, especially your layering system
- Stay hydrated and well-nourished during the climb
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Listen to your guides and follow their instructions carefully
Remember, climbing Mount Rainier is a serious undertaking that requires proper preparation and respect for the mountain. With the right training, gear, and mindset, you'll be well-equipped to tackle this incredible challenge. Happy climbing!
