Advice: Via Ferrata kit list

One of the joys of via ferrata is that unlike normal rock climbing, only a minimal amount of equipment is needed. Only 2 items are specific to via ferrata - all other items are probably to be found in any keen outdoor persons wardrobe.

Item	Comments
Harness.	Any climbing harness will do, but the ideal would be one which is light, low-bulk and is comfortable to climb and walk in. You don't need loads of padding or 'hundreds' of gear loops. E.g. Petzl Tetrax.
Helmet.	Modern designs are light, comfortable to wear, and will protect better during a fall than older style helmets (which are primarily to protect against falling rocks or ice). E.g. Petzl Elios.
Shock absorbing lanyard set.	A device specifically designed to absorb the very high shock loadings that can result in the event of a fall on fixed wires. E.g. Petzl Zyper Vertigo.
Pulley.	Essential for routes which involve tyrolean traverses. The Petzl Tandem is designed specifically for use on wire cables.
Leather gloves.	Very useful for longer routes or those with tyrolean traverses. Cheap ones from your local garden centre are fine, though specialist fingerless options are also available.
Spare clothing.	On any mountain route, an insulation layer, lightweight waterproof, hat and gloves should be carried.
Water and food.	A hydration system offers the most convenient way to keep hydrated. Do not under estimate how much water you will need on strenuous, south facing routes - 2 litres per person per day would be a good minimum.
Sunscreen & sunglasses.	Sun protective clothing is also a sensible option to consider.
Small first aid kit.	Enough to deal with cuts, grazes and blisters.
LED headtorch.	Just in case you get stuck out later than you planned. E.g. Petzl Tikka.
Daypack.	The smaller the better - a large pack will slow you down, and will be a real hindrance on overhangs or outward facing ladders. Even if carrying a backup rope, a 30 litre pack should be plenty big enough.

Other comments:

Footwear choice is a matter of personal preference. Approach shoes or lightweight walking boots should be fine, though on longer, harder routes, a more specialist alpine boot (e.g. La Sportiva Trango S) may prove more comfortable, supportive and confidence inspiring (especially if patches of snow are encountered).
A 10cm quickdraw can come in very handy for resting or taking pictures. Simply clip from your harness belay loop onto a step or ladder rung.
On longer mountain routes (especially higher grade or less well maintained), or when climbing with less confident companions, it is well worth taking a 30m lightweight single rope, a couple of slings and screwgates, and a magic-plate (e.g. Petzl Reverso) or HMS carabiner, to allow belaying over difficult sections, or sections with damaged cables.
An altimeter (e.g. Suunto Vector) can very useful for checking progress on routes.

Basic via ferrata techniques are illustrated on Petzl's excellent website.

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