Mastering the Layers: Clothing for the Everest Summit

What to Wear for a High-Altitude Mount Everest Expedition

Dress for the Death Zone

Temperatures at the Mount Everest summit can drop to -40°C. To survive, your clothing must be a high-performance system. A Mount Everest expedition is won or lost based on how well you manage your body heat.

The Merino Base Layer

It starts with wool. Merino stays warm when wet and doesn't hold odors—essential for an Everest trekking trip where you won't shower for weeks. It is the foundation of your summit suit.

Technical clothing layers for high altitude
The Mid-Layer Insulation

Fleece and synthetic 'puffy' jackets trap dead air. These layers are added as you move from Everest Base Camp toward the high camps. They must be breathable to prevent sweat from freezing.

The Down Suit Masterpiece

For the final push to the Mount Everest summit, nothing beats a one-piece down suit. It is essentially a wearable sleeping bag. It is the iconic look of the Everest expedition climber and your ultimate shield against the cold.

Stay Dry, Stay Alive

Proper layering is a science. Master it during your Everest trekking training to ensure you are ready for the extreme cold of the summit.