Ice climbing by it's very nature is inherently more dangerous than leading on rock. Proper training and practice before leading is essential.

This is a very basic list of what you might want to take.

General Gear

• As usual, we prefer double or twin ropes for ease of rappelling, etc. (purchase dry treated ropes!)
• HELMET, unless you like bleeding scalp wounds.
• Two ice tools with leashes. Swing a few in the local outdoor shop. Find what feels comfy to you. Demo a pair if you can.
• A third tool is nice on steep ground and if you ever drop one, you'll be a lot happier.
• Crampons - again, this is your choice. I prefer the Grivel Rambos for vertical ice.
• 6-8 Grivel, Black Diamond,or other similar modern ice screws. Trust us here...there is no substitute for a screw that goes in easy. It's all about hang time. You may want to buy even more if you place quite a few on lead.
• a couple of the titanium screws for leaving behind if you have to retreat from a route.
• 6-8 Quick Draws w/ biners
• a couple long slings for threading and girth hitching pillars, etc.
• 1 cordelet, 1 tied sling, w/2 screw locking carabiners
• figure 8 or ATC belay device. ATC may ice up.
• Gore-tex clothing is almost a must. A shell & pants, fleece underneath, balaclava, and gaiters.
• Handwear. Fleece gloves/mitts or wool mitts with gore-tex shell of some type.