I am leaving for Ecuador (alone) after Christmas, and plan to be there through early January. I want Chimborazo to be the highlight of my trip, to visit the Galapagos afterwards, and to do some lower mountains first. I know this is a lot for 2 weeks, but if the Ecuador is what I expect, I will return for a 2nd trip anyway, so it won't ruin my vacation if I don't do everything, including putting off Chimborazo for next time.
I have little experience, and no gear. I am in great physical shape; I ran 2 marathons in October, lift weights, climb walls (literally and metaphorically), etc. I have lots of outdoors experience at low altitudes, and am comfortable sleeping outside in single digit (F) temperatures or any conditions, hiking all day, etc. I can understand Spanish, but not speak conversationally. I have read almost everything I can on Ecuador. My ancestors lived in the European Alps, and my cousins are great climbers, so I am hoping that means my body will acclimatize better than most.
I want to know what gear to buy and bring on the trip. I have no problem buying gear in Quito if it is available and reasonably priced - 1 more souvenir and 1 less item for the airline to lose. I do want to be prepared, and leave here with everything I might need and can't buy.
Any other advice would be appreciated.