acarp

The class does recommend plastic boots, especially for the non-summer months (doesn't apply to me since I'm taking it in the summer). I'm a newbie to this sort of thing, so I'm trying to absorb as much info as possible. I'm really hoping that after taking the class that "Aplinism" and I will begin a beautiful friendship which will include many other ascents. Even if I may not need plastic right now, I'd like to know that if I try anything later on, my feet will still be in good shape. I do have a pair of Makalu's I purchased a couple years ago for backpacking. I love 'em, but I didn't think they would be warm enough for constant snow and ice.

I'm looking to take an Alpine class in August on Mt. Baker (or on a small friendly trip if someone wants to take a newbie). I hope to use these boots there and many future trips as well. Every now and then we get some ice in my neck of the woods and after I have some equipment and knowledge, I'd be more prone for some ice climbing. I realize fit is the most important thing, but there isn't a store within many miles of me that could even fit me for a boot of this type. I'm guessing worst case scenario, if they don't fit, I can always send them back. Sure, I'm out some shipping costs, but it would be much cheaper than me driving to the closest place to get fitted.

I searched and came up with nothing, so excuse me if it's a repost... I found a nice deal on a pair of Koflach Verticals. As some of you may have seen my other post, I'm looking to take an alpine class to test the waters (well, snow and ice I guess). Yes, I realize I could probably rent, but for the price and what I would probably put out to rent, I'd rather just have my own. So here's my ? I wear an 8.5 sneaker most of the time. Occassionally I will wear a 9 with some brands. What sizing should I be looking at? It's mail order, so I can't really try before I buy. What else should I consider? Good boot for what I'm thinking? I've seen where a lot of double plastic are going away.

I've been doing some reading and posting on other forums, and I thought I would see what you guys say... I'm looking to take an Alpine I class with American Alpine Institute. Some seem to think that they are a great way to learn a lot of the basics since your main goal isn't to bag a peak. Others think that they are a waste of money (~$1100) and I'd be better off finding some partners who are willing to teach me the ropes while climbing with them. What do you guys think? How open is the Alpine community? I got started in rock climbing about 7-8 years ago by just "finding some partners," but living in Virginia, there aren't too many people that into Alpine. I'm looking to take this class so I can "try it out" to see if it will really interest me as much as I think it will and to start learning about it. I hope to do this sometime in August. Anyone up for taking out a newbie for several days or is taking a class really the best way to go?