Trench foot! What a great name for a condition. I almost want to get it just to say I've had it.
Atari, you'll find that your feet are very important in them hills - the extra spent on the right footwear is well worth it. That doesn't mean go buy the most expensive footwear available, but get the correct pair for the conditions and make sure they fit well. You'll thank yourself. ALso, keep an eye out for sales.
To the original poster - be careful the advice you give on iceaxes and such, we don't want to steer anyone wrong. For myself, I typically carry two main axes, and then I have an extra backup set of 2 axes with extra replacement blades and handles for each. It may sound like overkill, but it isn't...
Burchey, don't know if you're looking, but:
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,61270_Alico-Summit-Backpacking-Hiking-Boots-For-Men.html http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,64724_Alico-New-Guide-Mountaineering-Hiking-Boots-For-Men.html They're better than a pair of LL Bean Cresta that I have FWIW.
There's an additional 25% off coupon floating around...
