other questions — what’s best strategy when the walking become scrambling/climbing - stuff them down your jumper? (Then they attract condensation) Take them off? (Not much use in the bag are they?)
The best policy is undoubtedly don't fall over !
Seriously - ice is very hard and very slippery !
Are you talking trekking or climbing ?
I think you already hit upon an appropriate format, x32. My recommendations would be the Swarovski 8x30 B new Companion, or, Swarovski 8x32 SV, or 10x32 SV, or Zeiss 8x32 SF, or 10x32 SF.
** [EDIT]** I should have added that perhaps if you have the Swaro 8x32 SV that a higher magnification option might be to carry the Swaro doubler attachment for this bin - giving you 8x and 16x ...... ?
I was carrying my 800mm lens through there which is the same mag, and the close up views are very worthwhile ** 👍
Probably the best way to carry them would be to clip onto backpack harness straps, or sling, or get a dedicated chest harness and padded camera bag etc that could take both, or have a pocket for it. Very easy to access from right in front of you.
The other tips would be Gore-Tex Gore-Tex Gore-Tex ! Shell's, jackets, boots, tents, backpacks, rain covers etc. Make sure your gloves and beanie are lined with Windstopper Gore-Tex too or you might lose your fingers /mind.
Carry and
Drink much more water than you think, and take it easy on the ascent - altitude adaptation is individual - allow extra days in the schedule to stay put. I don't ever think I felt too well above about 3900m. Over 4600m I could have quite happily sat down in the sun and died (many thanks to the Sherpa who walked over and insistently convinced me to fill my gullet with hydralite drink) , and above 5400m I was having the most fantasmagorical visions !
Enjoy !
And don't put yourself in the position of being a prey animal - it's no fun ! 😄
Chosun 🙅♀️