Climbing

Canyoning

Canyoning in the Alps: Gear and Progression

Canyoning combines rope skills, swimming, and jumping through steep gorges. Here's how to start in the Alps.

Climbing

Crampon Types Explained: Strap-On, Semi-Step, Fully Automatic

Crampons have three fastening systems. Match the crampon to your boot and your climbing.

Climbing

Ice Axe Selection: Technical vs Mountaineering vs Glacier

The ice axe market is confused until you understand the three categories. Here's how to match tool to route.

Climbing

Scotland Winter Climbing: Gear and Conditions in 2026

Scottish winter climbing has its own rules. Here's what conditions are like in 2026 and what gear you need.

Mountaineering

Colorado 14ers: Practical Guide to Technical Routes

The Colorado 14ers list becomes mountaineering on the technical peaks. Here's how to approach them.

Via Ferrata

Dolomites Via Ferrata: Progression from Grade 1 to Grade 5

Dolomites via ferrate deserve their own progression path. Here's how to move from cables to technical routes.

Climbing

Best Climbing Harnesses for Alpine, Sport, and Big Wall

A harness has to fit your body. Here's what to pick for each climbing discipline and why.

Climbing

Rope Management for Single and Double Rope Systems

The difference between managing single and double ropes is subtle but consequential. Here's what actually matters.

Alpinism

Multi-Day Alpine Climbing: Food, Fuel, and Weight Strategy

Alpine food planning is more technical than the climbing. Here's how to pack lean without bonking at altitude.

Alpinism

Chamonix Alpinism: Starter Routes for the Competent Climber

Chamonix offers vertical alpinism starting 900m above the valley. Here are the routes that teach you the game.

Climbing

Trad Climbing Gear Rack: What to Buy First and What Can Wait

A full trad rack costs $2,500 but you don't need it all in year one. Here's the real progression.

Climbing

How to Choose Climbing Shoes for Different Rock Types

Granite, limestone, and sandstone each demand a different shoe. Here's how to match the rubber to the rock.