This All-New Alpine Kit From The North Face Is Weird, Pricey—and Sometimes Brilliant

The Advanced Mountain Kit might just be the most expensive line of climbing clothing ever made. The all-new collection from The North Face includes 11 pieces of apparel ($6,100 for a complete outfit with no redundant layers), plus two pairs of boots, three backpacks, a tent, a sleeping bag, and a duffel bag. The latter is apparently designed to be “tossed from helicopters.” That direct quote from the brand’s official marketing copy, gives would-be buyers an idea of who the Advanced Mountain Kit is for...