Climbing Features

Our climbing expert looks into the history of free soloing, considers how dangerous it is and explains what sets it apart from free climbing

We walk you through what to wear for rock climbing indoors and out so that you're comfortable, mobile and protected

Is rock climbing dangerous? We weigh up the hazards, describe the common risks and injuries and explain how to manage them to an acceptable level

What are crampons? We look at their heritage, consider their features, explain their ratings and take a look at correct crampon technique

We provide the beta on the three main types of rock climbing shoes, detailing the advantages and disadvantages of each, to help you choose out your next pair

Our rock climbing gear list covers everything you need as a beginner plus extra kit for once you start getting more ambitious with the grades

What is alpinism? And is it the same as mountaineering? Our experts take a look at the traditional fast and light approach to climbing big mountains

Pros and elites abound at this annual event, but they’re here to help everyone gain confidence on the rock

We reveal what makes El Capitan, Yosemite National Park's prize rock face so special, and find out how to get to the top

Taking those first faltering steps into glaciated, big mountain terrain can be daunting: here are five things Mountain Leader Alex Foxfield wishes he’d known before his first alpine peak