Free Solo Rock Climbing

"Free solo rock climbing is climbing walls without ropes." Will Stanhope explains the difference between rock climbing and free solo climbing. Will is a professional climber and enjoys both types of rock climbing. He is based in Squamish, BC, Canada and does regular trips around the world to climb. Will explains how free soloing is not about pushing your abilities to the limit but more climbing within your means to enjoy the freedom on the rock. In this video Will is showcased free solo climbing on The Chief in Squamish. The wall is 1,000 ft to the valley floor. The climb follows a crack splitting a wall on the North face of the Chief and requires a number of technical maneuvers at the top. The climb is ranked a 5.11c in rock climbing ratings.

Adam Ondra 9a first ascent

Black Diamond athlete Adam Ondra made the first ascent of Chaxi Raxi, a massive 9b line at Oliana, Spain in late April. This is likely one of the hardest sport climb in the world. We had Bernardo Gimenez on the scene to document Adam’s efforts and he was fortunate enough to be there for the redpoint. Below is the outstanding video Bernardo edited together, as well as brief recap from Adam. Stunning. Impressive. Inspiring. Absolutely bad ass. Congratulations, Adam.

Beyond Good and Evil

"In the house of pain, we were chained together searching for our truth, beyond good and evil". This quote from Nietzsche inspired Andy Parkin and Mark Twight, the openers of this mixed climbing route, that became a reference. Listed extremely difficult, North oriented, this route was appealing for François Damilano and François Marsigny, the repeaters of the route. Last winter, it was time for the up-and-coming generation, represented by Marion Poitevin and Sébastien Ratel to meet the challenge. Three duos, three experiences, three encounters… echoing the Trilogy alpine series.