Do I need high altitude linners for Denali?

[OlegV]

I am still not sure if I need high altitude liners for Scarpa Iverno on Denali. Anybody had experience with regular liners in super-cold conditions? What if I wear thiiick wool socks and have extra-insulating sole below my feet? As I understand, most of the cold comes from below your feet - which is in direct contact with the snow.

[treknclime]

Oleg...I've climbed Denali in regular liners and foam ones. Have always liked the extra "insurance" the foam ones give...just in case it's realy cold (i.e., April & May). The foam or aveolite ones are usually a bit lighter, too, which is helpful if you have a long or bitter cold summit day. I also wear Forty Below overboots above 14k. Not sure if I'm a wuss...or just wanna keep those toes. So far, it's worked well. The overboots can also be used with polarguard booties...around camp...or with the foam liners. Nice to give those feet a rest after a long day on the hill.

 

I'm always in Koflachs...so not sure about the Scarpa Invernos. Maybe someone has specific info 'bout those puppies on Denali.

[crazy_t]

Having had a good bit of experience in cold, moderately high places I would just say that footwear is one, if not the one, key piece of gear for a climb like that and warmth is a big reason. Why chance it? They aren't that expensive compared to the time and $ you will be committing to the climb. Enjoy the toasty warmth of new liners and then you won't spend any extra energy worrying over it either. Davai! Udachi! I pomni, i vodka biz pivo, kak dengi na veter...

Edited December 31, 2005 by crazy_t

[OlegV]

Thanks for your advice: aveolite + Forty Below = 10 toes

Just trying to save some $ on a gear.

 

Berejonogo bog berejot!

[tomtom]

Surprisingly, these are still available in sizes 8, 9, & 10 for $30. I have them in my Koflachs and they work great.