Just got back from Mera Peak – it’s a great climb but pretty extreme, so it won’t be easy for those hoping to defeat Everest’s extreme conditions. Particularly during summit pushes in the early hours of the morning or late into the evening, temperatures can dip well below freezing for some periods. (c) Good cold weather prep and how to manage cold are key both for comfort as well as safety. Frostbite, hypothermia, and exhaustion are potential dangers if climbers don’t have the right gear or strategies. Being prepared and knowledgeable in handling the cold conditions on your Mera Peak climb just makes it all that much more enjoyable, safe, and successful.

Layering Clothing for Maximum Insulation

With layering, I think it has to be one of the most effective ways, just dealing with cold Weather. Layering allows two such contrary aspirations — warming and cooling — to live together, in a climber who can be comfortably satisfied with their comfort. A layering system typically consists of a wicking base layer, an insulating and/or breathable middle layer, and the water- and windproof outer shell. 

And the layer that sits against your skin should be thin and made of moisture-wicking material so it can draw that sweat off of you. The middle layer, which is typically fleece or down, provides insulation while the outer shell keeps out wind, snow, and rain. This is hugely preferable to having all clothes be one-piece, since by combining layers up top, climbers can adjust their attire (either falling just outside allowable dress codes imposed by convention planners or pushing the limit, I’m not sure which), adding and subtracting items as weather conditions and level of exertion vary through a day on the mountain.

High-Quality Gloves and Mittens Invest!

“Up at high altitudes, your hands get cold, and Frostbite can set in pretty quickly if they’re not appropriately insulated. You can never wear too good gloves or mittens. Climbers commonly opt for a two-part system of lightweight fleece liners and insulated shell over-mitts to save weight while maintaining warmth. 

Waterproof, windproof gloves can also discourage pooled moisture, which significantly raises the risk of cold injury. And because it won't take long outside, wet to make them incapable of keeping cold at bay, an extra pair of dry gloves should always be in your pack.

Ensure that Your Feet Are Warm in Insulated Boots & Socks

Your feet are also susceptible to Frostbite. Mojo must-have gear: -30 temps require a pair of well-insulated, waterproof mountaineering boots to climb/install crampons on BestimizeMera Peak. The moisture-wicking liner socks combined with an insulated outer sock in these -15 Degree Extreme Cold Weather Socks are designed to keep feet dry and warm. 

One is boot liners and gaiters, which give perhaps an extra layer of snow salting resistance. Well-fitting boots also help to prevent blisters, which only get worse in the cold. One of the most vital things for remaining active throughout your climb is to keep your feet warm and dry.

Wear a hat, balaclava, and goggles.

Resource images: The head and neck are critical for the elimination of large amounts of body heat. A pair of thermal hats or a beanie, a balaclava, and ski goggles can reduce the loss of heat while keeping your skin protected from windburn and Frostbite. 

Goggles will further protect your eyes from reflective snow and the more intense, harmful rays of the sun at higher altitudes. Collectively, these help keep core body temperature in check so that climbers can focus on climbing instead of suffering.

Mildly Insulated Jackets to Warm Your Core

All else constant,  you need your core warm for energy, coordination, and merely remaining safe. Good insulated jackets that are filled with down or synthetic will provide mind-boggling warmth and not too much weight. 

For summit push, the down coat over fleece combo will keep you warm, and is flexible with this. Climbers at higher altitudes sometimes wear heavier parkas to shield themselves from subzero winds for many hours on the summit. By doing whatever it can to keep limbs, hands, and feet functional in the bitter cold.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Staying hydrated is more challenging in cold weather, but just as important; the more well-hydrated you are, the easier it is for your body to regulate its temperature. 16 For extra insulation, drink warm beverages like tea, soup, or water from insulated bottles that help the body stay hydrated and prevent freezing. Metabolism depends on high-energy foods such as nuts, chocolate, and energy bars to produce body heat. Small, frequent meals also help in maintaining energy levels —particularly important on long summit pushes when you’re exposed to the elements for a significant amount of time.

Use Hand and Foot Warmers

Climbers can add warmth with chemical hand and foot warmers—simple, easy-open USB rechargeable heat packs for warming up temporarily when the iron temperature is cold. 

Placing them inside gloves, mittens, or boots can keep hands and feet from going numb and help to maintain circulation during rest breaks or slow advances. Not a substitute for fantastic clothing, but still lovely to pack in the quiver for those summit pushes or that additional layer of warmth for an alpine start on route.

Accustoming horses to minimize cold stress

Cold is more deadly at high altitude. Proper acclimatization is also essential to prevent fatigue and enhance your circulation and body’s ability to generate heat. 

Gradual altitude gain, rest days, and Bob training climbs all assist the body in adapting to less oxygen, so it’s a better type and can deal more easily with subfreezing temperatures. Acclimatization helps prevent hypothermia and Frostbite, so going without it makes the climb riskier and more exhausting.

Summit Push Strategy for Weatherest Weather

The weather in Mera Peak is highly variable, so it’s best to schedule the ascent when you have good weather. The coldest and clearest (“no storm”) conditions are typically early in the day. 

Climbers need to account for a favorable forecast, local guides' recommendations, and flexibility so they can avoid wind chill factor considered extreme or hours of unanticipated snow falling. Wrap it all up and limit unwanted time in the cold, and it makes for a safer, successful summit.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to cold on a Mera Peak climbing trip, there is gear, and then there is preparing smart for the conditions. From what we wear and eat and drink to the process of acclimatisation, everything plays a part in making sure we stay safe and as comfortable as possible at the edge. 

With insulated extremities, a warm core, coupled with handwarmer and warmer pads, will be there to ensure that climbers don’t lose energy and function during climbs. Summit pushes are scheduled to coincide with favourable weather conditions, and the use of protective clothing, such as balaclavas and goggles, reduces exposure.