Traversing the full length of the rugged Cuillin Ridge in Scotland's Isle of Skye is one of the greatest mountain challenges in the British Isles. Whilst it is only graded Severe in summer (IV in winter), with approach and descent included it is around 14 miles in length, the difficulties and exposure are sustained, and route finding continuously difficult. In addition, the weather on Skye is renowned for its awfulness, the midges and clegs can be ferocious, there is no water on the Ridge itself, and reasonable escape routes in case of emergency are very limited. Not surprisingly, many people choose to do it with a guide over two or three days and bivouac en route. However, experienced climbers and mountaineers who are comfortable leading VS should have no problem navigating their way along the Ridge and tackling the renowned obstacles of the TD Gap, King's Chimney, the Inaccessible Pinnacle and Naismith's Route direct and without guidance: and those who are fit enough should be able to complete the whole thing in a day, thus sparing themselves the need to carry a lot of bivi kit.
Below are listed a selection of lightweight but durable products which we feel will be particularly useful for your first/next summer Cuillin Ridge attempt. For more information on the Cuillin Ridge, and tips for success, please see our Cuillin Ridge Advice Page.