u/Confident-Buffalo-46

For context I’ve spent a little over a year on a set of old vices with worn out springs. I demoed a ntn setup recently and found it less fun but really appreciated the extra stability when making alpine turns in slush.

Everything I’ve seen on reddit says hammerheads provide the most stiffness for 75mm setups but most posts are a few years old and I imagine parts are extremely hard to find these days. Is it still worth picking up a pair (found some for $150 with skis) or would it be better to throw some stiffy springs on the vices?

I’ve been wanting to dip my toes into ski touring/mountaineering and as a Portland resident Hood seems like the best place to start, but I’m not sure what gear is required or what the route options are.

I’ve seen some people on skins but most appear to be boot packing and I’m curious why go with one vs the other. Id also like to know how far up you can go before crampons and picks become a necessity.

Hoping to make my first ascent (likely just to the top of palmer) next weekend and would really appreciate any advice.

I’ve been wanting to dip my toes into touring/mountaineering and as a Portland resident Hood seems like the best place to start, but I’m not sure what gear is required or what the route options are.

I’ve seen some people on skins but most appear to be boot packing and I’m curious why go with one vs the other. Id also like to know how far up you can go before crampons and picks become a necessity.

Hoping to make my first ascent (likely just to the top of palmer) next weekend and would really appreciate any advice.