Clothes may be changed on the ascent (4)

I believe the answer is:

gear

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'clothes' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for gear that I've seen before include "Transmission device - kit" , "Clothes - equipment - first to fifth in a car?" , "Toothed wheel and youthful fashion" , "Clothes (first or second, perhaps?)" , "Equipment, clothing, goods" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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