The Weight of Air: Oxygen Bottles on Everest

Managing Life-Support Systems During Your Expedition

Carrying Your Breath

For most, the Mount Everest summit is only possible with supplemental oxygen. These carbon-fiber tanks are the heaviest and most important items in a Mount Everest expedition inventory.

The Evolution of Oxygen Tanks

Old steel tanks were incredibly heavy. Modern Mount Everest summit tanks use a carbon-fiber wrap over an aluminum core, reducing weight significantly and allowing climbers to move faster on the ridge.

Stack of oxygen bottles for a Mount Everest expedition
Logistics of the Cache

Sherpa teams carry hundreds of bottles to Camp 2, 3, and 4 weeks before the summit push. This massive logistical feat is what enables Everest trekking peak climbers to attempt the top.

Regulator Precision

The regulator is a delicate instrument that must not freeze. If it fails near the Mount Everest summit, the sudden drop in oxygen levels can lead to immediate collapse. Proper testing is vital.

Technology and Grit

While technology helps, the Mount Everest summit still requires human grit. Supplemental oxygen is just a tool to help your willpower reach the top.