US climbers may be forced to look elsewhere for their gear after a large Canadian brand announced it would stop sales across the US / Canada border due to the impact of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

Flashed specialises in bouldering equipment and has earned a stellar reputation for its safe and supportive crash mats and handy climbing accessories.

Despite its position as a major player on the bouldering scene, the Canadian brand says the current tariff situation has forced it to cease retail sales in the US.

"This isn’t a decision we wanted to make," reads a Flashed Instagram post.

"The U.S. climbing community has been an important part of our journey for decades, and we’re deeply grateful for every climber who has supported us, trusted our gear, and brought us along on their adventures.

"While we won’t be able to continue retail sales in the US, our mission to support climbers everywhere remains unchanged. We’ll keep pushing forward, finding ways to connect and contribute to the community we love."

Although Flashed has ended retail sales, its supportive padding is still available to commercial gyms in the US.

"Our commitment to creating safe, high-quality climbing spaces remains unchanged, and we’re proud to keep supporting climbing gyms and their communities across the country," continued the Instagram post.

What are tariffs?

Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods, which increase their price and aim to make domestically-sourced products more appealing.

In April, US President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on all US goods, along with additional, substantially higher tariffs on products from abroad. Tariffs on Canadian goods have risen and fallen in the months since, and currently sit at 35%.

Following the first wave of tariffs, we caught up with Kent Ebersole, president of America's Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), to ask how they'd affect outdoor-loving Americans.

"These tariffs will raise costs for American manufacturers, retailers, and families," he told us at the time.

“That’s going to slow growth, put pressure on small and mid-sized outdoor companies, and could force some to close their doors. These tariffs also make it more difficult for global outdoor brands to operate in the US and maintain their American workforce."

• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out
• The best women’s climbing shoes: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures

Scottish outdoor brand Highlander has recently launched a host of new backpack models. There’s the fast-and-light Vega, the versatile Ivar and the expedition-ready Novar. And then the Vulkan: a slightly pricier pack designed to cope with the rigours of winter walking and mountaineering in the often challenging environment of the Scottish Highlands. Highlander also states that it’s 'a versatile, all-season pack', so in theory it should be a good option for year-round adventures.

While the Vulkan is slightly pricier than its cousins, it is still an affordable pack, which is designed to do everything the likes of Osprey’s Mutant and Berghaus’ MTN Guide can, but with a significantly lower price tag. This is central to Highlander’s main mission and has been so ever since it was founded in 1985. The brand states that: ‘enjoying the challenges and beauty of the outdoors should be available to everyone’.

I’ve tested several pieces of Highlander kit over the years and have usually been impressed with the quality, especially given the affordability of most of the gear. The brand backs itself with a 282-year warranty – one year for each of Scotland’s Munros, the country's prominent peaks above 3,000ft (914m).

As such, I was excited to shoulder the Vulkan and head for the hills.

First impressions

Having tested Highlander’s flagship hiking backpack, the Ben Nevis, it was immediately obvious that the Vulkan was a more specialized tool. Giveaways include the ice axe attachment points, the ice axe slot for securing the pick, the daisy chains for attaching gear, the rolltop opening and the additional straps for securing items like rope.

Its bright orange straps and loops make it more visible in the case of an emergency, and there’s a handy integrated whistle on the chest strap too. Then, on the inside of the lid is a brief emergency guide with distress signals and emergency phone numbers for the UK, EU, France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, the US and Canada. It seems this is a pack that Highlander wants you to take into the high mountains.

Once I’d tensioned all the straps appropriately, the first wear was comfortable and it was clear this was a supportive pack. There’s nothing revolutionary about the harness system – it has the usual padded hip belt, chest strap and zoned padding on the back panel. That there’s no suspended panel nods towards suitability for colder adventures.

A feature set geared for mountaineering

The Vulkan has many features dedicated to mountaineering and climbing. Above the rolltop closure is an adjustable strap for securing a climbing rope, while the ice axe attachment features elasticated toggles and a reinforced slot that securely holds the pick and stops it from poking outwards or shredding the pack. Towards the top, you get one elasticated, adjustable loop for holding the spike flush. Highlander state that the pack is intended for 'lightweight mountaineering'. Indeed, it's clear that it’s designed for one walking axe, rather than twin technical ice tools. Hence, why there’s just the one loop at the top of the pack.

When it comes to helmet storage, there’s space in the large elastic panel on the front of the pack. It stretches just enough house a helmet, though it’s a real squeeze when the pack is full. It’s a decent alternative to the removable helmet holders seen in some winter packs. When not used for helmet storage, this front mesh panel is great for storing items you might want quickly to hand, such as fleece on a changeable day. I often used it to hold the dry bag containing my food, allowing me to access it quickly without having to open the whole pack up.

Unlike on lighter summer packs, there’s no suspended back panel for ventilation here. Instead, there are five strategically placed regions of squishy foam, one providing lumber support, the others higher up the back. Stretched over the top of these is a breathable mesh, while beneath is a back panel with triangular holes. This is Highlander’s Airvent system and it does a decent job of being reasonably airy in summer, without the need for suspension. The gaps between the foam provide at least some degree of airflow.

The harness system is fairly standard, with a chest strap and hip belt. The chest strap features the same position-adjustment slider seen on the Ben Nevis backpack. This enables you to move the chest strap up and down, in order to find the best fit. My worry here is that I’ve broken these kinds of strap before (with both the Ben Nevis pack and the Osprey Hikelite) and they’re nigh on impossible to reattach. So, don’t be too heavy handed.

Other storage

The main compartment is large and straightforward, with an elasticated sleeve for a reservoir (or anything you wanted to keep separate). The rolltop closure protects it from adverse weather better than a drawcord or zippered closure. It does mean accessing the top takes longer than with most packs, but the main compartment can also be accessed from the side via a reinforced zipper.

This side access is great for quickly grabbing items like a crampon bag or a group shelter – basically things that may be towards the bottom of the pack but that you might want in a hurry. Its 45-liter capacity just about hits the sweet spot for winter, when you’ll be carrying additional items like crampons, a blizzard jacket (or a survival blanket), emergency shelter and extra layers.

The pack is topped by a lid with both an exterior and interior zippered compartment, as well as four loops for attaching gear. The exterior compartment features a little mini-carabiner on a strap for clipping valuables into. Both are large enough to take a topographical map. If you don't need the lid, it can be removed, which is nice.

Being geared towards winter, there are no hydration pockets in the harness system like those seen in running inspired fast hiking packs like Salomon’s Aerotrek 30 or Montane’s Trailblazer. However, there are a couple of side mesh pockets that are well-sized to take water bottles or an insulated flask. Such items can be reached and liberated while hiking, for supping on the go. There’s also the usual hydration bladder system, with a Velcro tab to hold the bladder in place and a portal for the tube. All of this adds to the packs versatility: you can fill it with a bladder and bottles for summer adventures, or take a thermos in one of the side pockets for winter.

The other bits of on-the-go storage the pack provides are the two small, zippered hip belt pockets, ideal for small items like headlamps or snacks. One is elasticated, while the other is a bit more robust, woven from the same ripstop nylon as the main pack.

Hidden at the bottom of the pack is the zippered raincover compartment. I’m not a huge fan of these raincovers, as they make accessing the pack difficult when fitted and have a tendency to blow away in gusty conditions, thus littering the backcountry. However, kudos to Highlander for dealing with at least one of these issues by designing the cover so that it stays permanetly attached to the pack. However, I still think a better alternative is to arrange the contents of the pack into colored dry bags, keeping everything both dry and organized inside.

On the trails

I’ve been testing the Vulkan during the summer months on hikes in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, and I'm looking forward to taking it out in the peaks during the coming winter season too. My hiking adventures have allowed me to assess its suitability as a versatile, all-season pack.

I enjoyed putting the Vulkan to the test on the trails, finding it to be functional and comfortable in the same breath. From a functionality point of view, it did everything required and I appreciated many of the design features, such as the integrated whistle and front and side mesh pockets.

I’m quite a slim chap, at least at the moment anyway. A qualm I’d had about Highlander’s Ben Nevis rucksack was the amount of spare strap that remained once I’d tightened up the hip belt. With the Vulkan, I’m delighted to say that there’s a solution to this problem. Two lengths of material, almost like grab handles, run on top of each of the hip belt pockets. I found that I could take the excess strap and wrap it around this a couple of times to tidy it out of the way. It all held in place while I was on the move and it was easy enough to unravel whenever I needed to take the pack off.

The concern when buying budget outdoor kit is that it may not be as durable as some of the more expensive competition. It's often the quality and strength of the fabrics and the components that you're paying for, after all.

It was a shame to find that one of the compression straps tore away from its stitching after only a few outings with the Vulkan. Time will tell whether the pack will suffer from other such issues but it’s not an ideal start. However, don’t forget the 282-year warranty – I’m sure you’d be within your right to get a replacement if the above happened to you.

All in all, this is a thoughtfully designed pack with features that’ll suit winter walkers, mountaineers and climbers, while also ticking a lot of boxes for general hiking use too. It’s comfortable to carry, gives plenty of storage options and has a number of nice little touches. My main concern is around its durability (having already broken a compression strap) and the fact that there’s no mention of recycled materials.

Also consider

Comparison table

Rock climbing is awesome. And also very expensive. From shoes to harnesses and ropes to racks, there's no getting around the fact that it's a costly habit, and that's why we've been trolling REI's massive July 4 sale to find you all the best deals on the gear you need.

The sale runs for a few more days through July 7, and among the thousands of items that the outdoor retailer has slashed prices on, we've found some excellent deals on climbing gear from French brand Petzl and Oregon-based Metolius.

We're talking about savings as big as hundreds of dollars off everything from climbing chalk all the way up to crash pads. You can grab some awesome kit, like the Petzl Whisper Harness, for as little as $134.89, or take $100 off the Metolius Magnum Crash Pad if you're looking to do more bouldering this summer.

We've outlined our favorite deals from Petzl and Metolius below, and you can shop the entire sale here. Remember, the sale ends on July 7, so don't delay.

If you're not in the US, scroll to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Petzl and Metolius climbing gear.

Petzl deals

Metolius deals

Not in the US?

Still hunting for great deals? Look below for more of today's best deals on Petzl gear.

• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out
• 7 reasons you need approach shoes: we get technical

Few footwear brands boast Scarpa’s reputation for quality mountain footwear. Since 1930, the Italian brand has been crafting shoes for the peaks from its alpine home. It was founded by an Anglo-Irish businessman, Rupert Edward Cecil Lee Guinness, the second Earl of Iveagh. He named the brand Scarpa, a jumbled acronym for Calzaturieri Asolani Riuniti Pedemontana Anonima (the Association of Footwear Manufacturers from the mountain area of Asolo). However, anyone who speaks Italian will know this is a case of the tail wagging the dog, as Scarpa is also Italian for… shoe.

Scarpa’s range includes approach shoes, like these, plus mountaineering (arguably the brand’s forte), ski touring, climbing, hiking, trail-running and lifestyle footwear. If you're asking yourself, 'what are approach shoes?' – they sit in the middle ground between climbing shoes and hiking shoes, offering some of the precision and grip on rock of the former, with the comfort and everyday wear qualities of the latter. Mountain guides love approach shoes, as they allow them to comfortably take clients on easy climbs, without the need to swap hiking shoes out for climbing shoes.

The Rapid XT is a fast and light approach shoe, ideal for multi-pitch climbs and at the 'meeting point between hiking, running and climbing, taking the best from each category' according to Scarpa. It’s also been available as a Gore-Tex version in Europe for a while, and the mid cut version is a recent addition to Scarpa's range in the US.

First impressions

This immediately struck me as a no-nonsense, classic approach shoe, with the good looks we’ve come to expect from Scarpa. First wear reveals in the inside to be a little bit rough and ready, not as lovingly padded as something like the Zamberlan El Cap approach shoe, which is admittedly 100g (3.5oz) heavier per pair. However, if you’re used to plush comfort in your hiking and scrambling footwear, this might be a bit of a shock.

The rough and ready theme continues in the generous, wrap-around TPU rand, which is designed to provide high levels of protection against rock abrasion. This is an armadillo of a shoe, with its durable leather upper and protective features. If you’re looking for kitten-soft comfort, this isn’t the pair for you. But then, you're after something you can ram into a crack between rock faces, not something to tickle under the chin.

It's no surprise to see Vibram Megagrip put to use in the outsole. This rubber compound is a mainstay in approach shoes, providing excellent traction on both wet and dry rock. There’s also the usual climbing zone, a region of flat rubber on the outsole under the toes, designed for maximum grip when edging and smearing.

An impressive feature set

As well as the climbing zone, the Vibram Megagrip sole boasts a brake system at the back, featuring another flat section. Between the two are the kind of deep lugs you’ll see in all kinds of hiking shoes and boots. This means the Rapid XT grips a variety of trail surfaces well, from boulders to gloopy mud. The Megagrip compound is also extremely durable, so should last an age.

Moving up through the shoe we come to the EVA midsole, complimented by a TPU insert in the medial area and an Ortholite insole. This is designed to improve stability, which is also enhanced by the width of the sole towards the toes. The sole is around 4.3in (11cm) at its widest here, compared to 3.8in (9.5cm) in the Zamberlan Salathés that I reviewed last year. It’s also wider towards the heel too: 3.1in (7.9cm) compared to the 3in (7.6cm) in the Salathés. A wider approach shoe means more stability on the trails. However, it makes it less precise on the rock and less adept at squeezing into cracks on a climb. This points to an approach shoes that’s aimed more towards the hiking rather than climbing end of the spectrum.

This is backed up by the lacing system, which stops a little further short of the toes than many approach shoe designs, including the Scarpa Crux, a mainstay among mountain instructors. Climbers like laces that go right up to the toes as this allows for a tight, precise fit in this crucial area. The Rapid XT’s relaxed lace system is more akin to standard hiking footwear. Indeed, the shoe sits in Scarpa’s ‘Fast and light’ category, rather than its ‘climbing orientated’ category. This is further exemplified by a broader toe than on some approach shoes, a feature designed for comfort on the trails rather than really precise edging on technical trad climbs.

The gusseted tongue and the upper heel region are the most padded, a feature that’s lacking around the toes or along the sides. The gusseting stops pesky trail debris from sneaking in and causing havoc. Maybe a little more luxury within the shoe would have been nice. But then, they'd have been heavier, so it's perhaps a decent compromise.

On the rocks

I’ve been wearing the Rapid XTs throughout winter, spring and summer, testing them on some of the UK’s classic crags and trails. I've worn them as both my main pair of shoes for the day and as an approach pair before changing into climbing shoes or, in winter, my mountaineering boots.

As expected, they’re superb on rock. They’re protective and nimble in the same instance and, while they’re not quite as precise as some, they’re still very well suited to hard scrambling and easy climbing. In fact, they’re absolutely ideal for the kind of ground where scrambling becomes climbing – think easy multi-pitch climbs, sustained via ferratas or long days on dry rock where speed is half the battle. The Isle of Skye’s Black Cuillin, the Alta Vias of the Dolomites or Corsica’s GR20 spring to mind.

When it comes to grip, I found they provided confidence when smearing up slabby sections, the Megagrip holding dry rock with aplomb. The outsole is rigid enough towards the toes that it allowed me to plant my feet on the kind of smaller holds I’d think twice about when wearing trail shoes. Yet there’s flexibility too, so they didn’t feel as uncompromisingly stiff as a pair of mountaineering boots.

The Megagrip compound is renowned for its hold on wet rock and, while obviously not as strong as on the dry stuff, it provided reassuring hold during mid-grade scrambles in the rain (I’m not one to go too hard when the sunshine is of the liquid variety). If you’re often taking on objectives in wet weather, there’s also the mid cut Gore-Tex version to consider.

On the trails

Scarpas say the Rapid XT is suitable for ‘trail and light hiking’, so naturally I wanted to test where its limits were. There’s no doubt that it’s most at home on rock, though its lugs are more than capable when gripping soft terrain.

As mentioned, the cushioning isn’t the plushest and the interior of the shoe isn’t particularly gentle on the feet. Climbers will be used to footwear that shuns comfort for performance, and this seems to be the case here. To be honest, I found that they were fine for day hikes and the like but I wouldn’t want to take on a multi-day thru-hike in them.

I found that their relatively wide outsole, along with the design of the midsole, provided stability on rougher trails in a way that was lacking when I tested the Zamberlan Salathés last year. Movement in the Rapid XTs felt fluid where these kinds of shoes can sometimes feel clunky. Perhaps this was down to the propulsion provided by the midsole.

However, I’d take Scarpa’s assertion that these sit in a family of shoes at the midpoint between 'hiking, running and climbing' with a pinch of salt. While you could justifiably call them an example of hiking or climbing footwear, these aren’t trail running shoes. The sole is too stiff, the outer’s not breathable enough and they’re too heavy. Sure, you can break into a bit of a jog on your way between rock features, but no one is turning up to one of the world’s most legendary trail races wearing these. Maybe I’ve taken the claim too literally, but I’ve seen other approach shoes that are much closer to being running shoes than these.

Also consider

Comparison table

Climbing has a well-earned reputation for community. Whether you're sending a tricky boulder problem or taking on a towering peak, climbers often talk of the connections they make along the way and the friends they find in the wilderness.

Accessible sport organization Anyone Can aims to take that inclusive spirit one step further by helping people living with disabilities achieve their climbing dreams, whether they're indoors or exploring their first mountains.

What is Anyone Can?

Anyone Can, which was started in 2019, runs indoor and outdoor accessible climbing sessions across the United Kingdom. Founders Chris and Vicky Binks use specialized equipment, often of their own invention, to help eager climbers achieve feats they may have once thought impossible.

How does it work?

To find out more, I caught up with Chris at Keswick Mountain Festival in the Lake District, where Anyone Can ran accessible climbing and canoeing sessions for adventurers living with disabilities.

"We’ve borrowed a climbing wall so we can run an accessible climbing session for whoever wants to come along and try climbing, that might have adaptive needs, or is living with disabilities or an impairment," explains Chris, at the foot of a large climbing wall with accessible equipment fixed to it.

Next to him is an adaptive climbing seat, designed for wheelchair users and other climbers with limited lower body function.

“We’ve got a supportive rig up so we can reduce a person's relative weight, we can make a person weigh half of what they weigh, so they can climb at whatever power they’re able to muster."

I don't live with a disability, but during a quiet moment, Chris kindly let me try the seat for myself to see how it works. I was strapped in, and several safety checks later, began scaling the wall.

The seat uses a pulley system to provide extra power and help climbers get to the top with less strength than would otherwise be required.

“We can get anybody to the top because we can take all the power out of it, and they can ride to the top, or they can moderate so they’re doing as much climbing as they want," says Chris.

With his help, I was able to climb easily and comfortably, without the use of my legs.

Along with the adaptive seat, Anyone Can has loads of equipment to help people living with disabilities hit the wall. Visually impaired climbers, for example, can wear an earpiece to receive instructions about their climbing route and upcoming holds.

There's also support for autistic climbers and those with additional sensory or cognitive needs.

Outdoor adventures

The help on offer at Anyone Can isn't just limited to climbing walls. Chris and Vicky run outdoor climbing, caving, sailing, and canoeing expeditions across the UK and abroad.

“We run days where you can try out something and see if it's for you, and weekends where you can do it for a bit longer, and check that works, and whatever the accommodation is that works for you," explains Chris.

“And then we try for week-long adventures. Where people can progress and embrace the sport, and become heavily involved in it.

"We run climbing trips to Spain most years. So we’ve got an extended thing where you can really go out and take part in that sport like anybody else would.”

Anybody Can hopes to create an inclusive sporting community where everyone feels welcome, and anybody can achieve their climbing goals.

"For us, it's about trying to get people to use whatever abilities they have and climb," concludes Chris.

Eager to try it out for yourself? Check out the Anybody Can website for a full list of upcoming taster days and longer adventures. Single day excursions typically cost around £100 per person or £330 for a group of five, while weekend trips, including accommodation are usually about £200 per person or £600 for a group of five.

• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out
• The best climbing films: 10 great movies about incredible mountain adventures

Haglöfs LIM ZT Flex Hiking, Climbing and Mountaineering Pants: a review

First impressions

Swedish brand Haglöfs are well-known among seasoned outdoor types for producing superb adventure-ready apparel for tackling trails and mountains, and I have been looking forward to checking out these alpine-orientated climbing and hiking pants, newly released as part of the latest LIM ZT range.

L.I.M. is an acronym for Less is More, and for the last two decades this series has featured Haglöfs’ top-end ultra lightweight apparel, designed for people who want to move fast and travel light in the hills and peaks, whether they’re mountaineering, scrambling, ski touring or simply exploring.

Each piece of gear comes with a price tag that’s every bit as steep as the landscape it’s designed for, but in my previous experience (while testing the Haglöfs LIM ZT Trek GTX Pro Jacket and LIM ZT Shell GTX Pro Pants in Scotland, for example) it usually performs exceptionally well in extremely challenging conditions.

Design and materials

Impressively, the Flex pants are made with mostly recycled fabrics. As the name suggests, these trousers are intended to be stretchy, to allow for all kind of contortions while you are climbing and scrambling, so there is a very generous amount of elastane (17%) in the material mix.

The elastane isn’t recycled, but the primary fabric is pre-loved polyamide. This synthetic mix is tough and hardwearing all by itself, but there are reinforced, waterproof panels on the lower calf area to provide extra protection for your legs and to ensure the pants last longer. The legs and seat on the Flex pants are pre-shaped, and the waist can be tightened with Velcro adjusters.

At the bottom of each leg is a zip, which opens up a gusseted section, enabling you to expand the leg and slide the material over the top of hiking boots, including chunky winter boots, designed for four-season alpine adventures and scaling icy peaks. Behind this zip is a second layer of material, which covers the lower leg and acts like a mini snow skirt, preventing snow, sleet, water and trail debris from getting in and working its way into your footwear.

On the cuff of the outer layer is a hook, so you can attach the pants to your boots to complete the system and keep everything in place. The collective effect of this design means the outer layer of the lower pants, complete with its reinforced panel, acts a bit like an integrated gaiter (which is how Haglöfs describe it).

In the place of standard hand pockets there are capacious pouches on each thigh, which are easy to access even when you’re wearing a climbing harness, extra layers and mountaineering gear. The right-leg pocket has an internal pouch within it, for housing your phone, and a transceiver loop, which can also be used for securing other items of special importance.

The Flex pants only come in one color for men and women (a craggy hue called Magnetite), but they do boast reflective trims and logos.

On the trails, crags and mountainsides

While perfect for lightweight backpacking and hiking escapades in any conditions and at any altitude, these pants are really designed for playing in proper alpine peaks, and I look forward to using them in precisely that kind of scenario soon.

In the meantime, I have been putting them through their paces in places that might be a bit lower, but where the terrain remains rough, tough and technical enough to test the trousers’ key attributes. Over the last month I have been scrambling, rambling, climbing and caving in the craggy Mendip Hills and on the tors of Dartmoor.

The first thing to say about the Flex pants is that they very much live up to their name: there is an impressive amount of multi-directional stretch in these trousers, so no matter whether you’re clambering over an obstacle on the trail or stretching your leg to reach a foothold while scrambling or climbing, the material does not impede your range of movement at all. And it’s worth noting that, unlike other trousers with a high amount of elastane content – such as Montane’s Tenacity Pants – the Flex don’t tend to give you an uncomfortable wedgie (probably because of the shaped seat).

Although made to be robust, the Flex pants feel soft and comfortable next to your skin, and the articulated knees and shaped seat – plus the off-set, flat seams – all adds to excellent all-round comfort levels.

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There is no integrated belt on these pants, but this is something I regard as a very mixed blessing anyway, because of variable quality of such features, and the weight they add to the garment; it’s far better, especially on pants intended for use in the mountains, to get a proper fit (although the sizing system used by Haglöfs does take a bit of getting your head around).

The waist on the Flex is elasticated, and the fit can be fine-tuned with Velcro strips one either side. You secure them with a fly zip and a single popper, which I did find surprisingly fiddly.

These pants are reasonably windproof, but they’re not waterproof (except for the reinforced panel on each lower leg). However, the synthetic material mix is hydrophobic and they take on very little water or weight if you do get caught in a downpour, and dry out extremely quickly afterwards. As such, they effectively cut out the need for seperate waterproof overpants in most scenarios.

That said, since I haven’t yet tested them above the snowline, I’m not sure how much thermal protection they really offer in more extreme conditions. The synthetic material offers good warmth-for-weight value, but as you get higher the featherweight construction might meet its limits.

The fact that the Flex are pants intended for use in the peaks is perhaps most apparent in the design of the pockets. Instead of the usual hand pockets you find on trousers designed for sea-level shenanigans (i.e. the vast majority) there are two thigh pouches, which remain accessible when you’re wearing a climbing harness and/or a hardshell waterproof jacket.

It feels odd not to have hand pockets to plunge your mitts into when you’re just walking, but these are technical trousers, and if you’re using them as the designers intended your hands will be otherwise occupied, grasping trekking poles or ice axes, holding on to ropes and looking for holds in the rockface, or encased in gloves as you make your way up a mountain. If you’re planning on standing around with your hands in your pockets, these are not the pants for you.

I did find that these pouches are so expansive it’s quite easy to lose things in their depths (I was on the verge of cancelling a bank card at one point, convinced it was lost, before locating it during the third time of looking).

One of the best design elements on the Flex Pants is the integrated gaiter on each leg. If you’re hiking or climbing in rough and tough terrain, or kicking your way through snow and ice, this is a really useful feature. Instead of having to attach a pair of gaiters externally to your lower leg, the Flex have a protective double-layer design, with a tight-fitting inner that sits behind the expansion zip and hugs your ankles, preventing snow and grit from going up your leg and getting into your boots.

The external layer is re-enforced, and there are hooks so you can clip the leg ends to your boots, to secure the system in place and stop water dripping into the lace and tongue area (a weak spot on some boots). This set-up isn’t quite as robust and rugged as some external gaiters, but it will provide a decent degree of protection in most scenarios, and it keeps your overall outfit impressively light.

Overall, I have been extremely impressed with the Haglöfs LIM ZT Flex pants. I haven’t tested them anywhere close to their limit yet, but whether you’re hitting the Himalayas to trek around Everest, hiking hut to hut through the French Alps, ticking off a few Fourteeners, or exploring the alpine extremes of any continent, I’m confident they will do the job. I am interested to see how much thermal protection they offer in icy alpine conditions, however, and I will update accordingly across the season.

Also consider

Choosing the right climbing shoes can be a tricky decision, with plenty of models on the market and important climbing-specific features to get your head around.

If you're looking for a new pair and don't know where to start, then check out these well-rated climbing shoes from La Sportiva. The Comp Solution shoes are now available for just $156.69 in the big REI anniversary sale.

These reliable climbing shoes are designed to keep you secure and provide plenty of grip as you climb. They've got lightweight leather/microfiber exteriors, smooth, sticky rubber Vibram outsoles, and a handy rubber toe patch to help you cling to the wall, indoors or out.

In her review for Advnture, climbing expert Jessie Leong was very impressed by the precise, sticky outsole and available grip.

"This is one up from the Vibram XS GRIP, favored – unsurprisingly – by many bouldering world championship winners for its high-performance climbing rubber specifically recommended for overhanging routes," she explained.

"Tricky footwork manoeuvres can be easily tackled, thanks to the full-rubber toe patch for scumming (a kind of smearing where you’re flagging your feet along a minimal pic of foothold) and toe hooking (see more rock climbing terms explained)."

The Comp Solution shoes also feature fast-lacing and heel lock systems, which secure your feet for confident, precise climbing manoeuvres.

Not in the US? Don't worry, you can look below for today's best Solution Comp climbing shoes deals where you are:

You can find more great climbing deals in the big REI Anniversary sale, along with plenty of camping, hiking, and trail running bargains.

Click here for our round-up of all the biggest and best savings.

• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out
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Arc'teryx has just dropped the latest in its line of Alpha climbing backpacks, and if you're a climber or mountaineer, you're going to want to sit up and take notice.

The Arc'teryx Alpha SL backpack is a 30L pack intended for rock, ice, and alpine climbing, and the big story is its astonishing strength-to-weight ratio. The Alpha SL is made using a material called Graflyte fabric, developed by Aluula Composites in Canada, that claims to be eight times stronger than steel for its weight and 100% recycle-ready.

The Canadian climbing brand says this slightly translucent white pack (not totally different in vibe to The North Face Phantom 38), has an unrivalled strength-to-weight due to unique construction layers of ultralight, ultra-strong polymer films. Aluula Composites says it fuses the films at a lower melt temperature, which makes bonding faster and more consistent, resulting in a waterproof and non-air-permeable material.

How light?

So, how light is it? At 15.7 oz (444g), it's considerably lighter than any 30L pack we've tested. There's simply no comparison, so we ended up weighing various household items and discovered that it's heavier than your phone but lighter than a Yeti Rambler 18oz water bottle. Perhaps more helpfully though, it's more than 8oz (200G) lighter than the Alpha FL 30.

For the weight, it's also eight times stronger than your stainless steel bottle, but clearly your ice axe or pocket knife could more easily puncture this. We don't recommend you test this out, but if you do, the pack can reportedly be easily repaired with a provided self-adhesive patch.

What else is good?

That means when you go climbing, all you'll feel on your back is the weight of your gear, and that's a good thing too, since this pack is built to carry serious kit: think ice axes, cams, crampons and rope, not just an extra layer and your sandwich on a hike.

A roomy cylindrical main compartment holds the bulk of your gear and can be accessed from the top or via a handy side zip, and an integrated mini-lid automatically flips to cover it when closed to protect your gear and provide a secure rope carry. On the front are six lash points for external carry, and if you want to bring it on board for an adventure vacation, it will fit in the overhead locker without any pushback from the flight attendants.

Arc'teryx lists it as water-resistant rather than waterproof, but there's an external waterproof zippered pocket with a key clip for your phone and other electronics.

When you're ready to start your approach, lightly padded thermoformed shoulder straps and back pane help ensure a comfortable carry and if your mission goes awry, a built in RECCO reflector helps search and rescue locate you – which is a good thing because with the current colorway, you'll blend in with the snow.

Several Arc'teryx ambassadors have been testing the pack out for the past six months, with climber Ines Papert calling the strength of the fabric "mindblowing" and Paul Mcsorley sharing an image of him hauling it up a granite rock face and reporting "it held up to the test."

The Arc'teryx Alpha SL backpack is available now in white for $400 / £350 from Arc'teryx.

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Karl Egloff's latest challenge is an extreme, globetrotting test of climbing ability. The 44-year-old speed climber has set multiple fastest time records in his career and now has his sights on a fresh challenge: to snag the speed records for the tallest mountains in each of the world's seven continents.

He already holds the records for the fastest ascents of the tallest mountains in Europe, Africa, and North and South America, having scaled Elbrus, Kilimanjaro, Denali and Aconcagua in record times.

With just three peaks to go, I caught up with Karl to find out why he's taken on this crazy challenge and what the next few months hold for him.

How Karl started speed climbing

Karl's introduction to speed climbing was certainly unique.

In his early adult life, the Ecuadorian was a mountain guide in his home country, leading tourists and climbers around the high plateaus and rugged landscape of the Andes mountains.

One day in 2012, with no prior speed climbing experience, a fellow guide challenged him to run up Cotopaxi, Ecuador's second-tallest mountain, to see how fast he could do it.

"One day we decided to run up the mountain, and I ran up the mountain for the very first time, and when I came back, I'd broken the world speed record," explains Karl, who sped up and down the 7125ft (2172m) peak in just one hour and 36 minutes.

"This was a huge thing in Ecuador... it's crazy to do the mountain in an one hour 30, when normally people do it in 12 hours.

"It's breaking all traditions, and in the end, I felt so good doing this. With no security, running up the mountain like a bird spreading its wings. I thought, 'Hey, this is a great sport, and I love this sport,'" he continues.

Thirteen years later, Karl is the proud owner of 12 speed climbing world records, including an astonishing record ascent of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, which Karl smashed in just six hours and 42 minutes back in 2014, although he doesn't credit it as his proudest achievement.

"The thing I'm really proud of is being alive," he laughs.

"I'm aware that this sport is risky, especially when you're going down you're risking much. I'm happy that I'm here, we always say in Swiss-German, an old guide is a good guide because he's alive."

The Seven Summits challenge

Karl has three mountains to go to complete his daunting Seven Summits challenge and become the first to hold all seven speed records at once.

To claim his crown, Karl needs to break the speed records for ascending the Vision Massif in Antarctica, Carstensz Pyramid in Oceania, and Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in Asia and, of course, the world. All ascents will be made without oxygen.

Karl will head to Everest first, to attempt his likely hardest climb in ideal early summer conditions. He'll need to beat the current record of 16 hours and 45 minutes, set by Italian mountaineer Hans Kammerlander in 1996.

To make matters more interesting, Karl won't be the only hopeful record-breaker on the mountain this spring, as American athlete Tyler Andrews will also be attempting to break the world speed record.

Should he break the beat Andrews' time and snag the record, Karl will head to Antarctica and Oceania in 2026 to complete his Seven Summits challenge before considering a well-earned retirement from speed climbing.

"I know that I'm already in the last years of my career, and recovery is not so easy anymore," explains Karl.

"I'm enjoying my last dance.

"I absolutely know that there's a time to quit, and this time you should never ignore...It's clear this line is coming, and at one point, I won't risk anymore."

Acclimatization

Alongside a strict regiment of intensive cardio and strength training, Karl is preparing for his trip by acclimatizing in hypoxic tents.

These high-tech tents simulate the low oxygen levels of high-altitude environments by creating a nitrogen-dense environment for you to sleep in.

The air at sea level contains 20.9% inhalable oxygen, a number that drops dramatically the higher you get. At Everest base camp, it's down to 10.4%, and by the summit, the air contains just a third of the inhalable oxygen at regular sea level.

Sleeping at the simulated altitude of a hypoxic tent saturates your blood oxygen levels, forcing your body to release its red blood cells and ready itself for conditions at 20,000ft / 6,096m.

"It's a crazy tool. I'm in the tent and watching a Champions League game at 6,000 meters of altitude, which of course makes it very nice," says Karl.

"I want to train my body to get all the red blood cells, so my body can train tired and also feel like there's a lack of oxygen at home. And I can eat, and I can perform feeling the same as I'm going to be feeling at that altitude."

Footwear

Karl will be making his next ascent in gear from his sponsor, La Sportiva, which boasts a well-rated range of high-quality climbing gear for harsh alpine conditions.

"I have tons of different options, but I'll probably be using the G2 boots for the summit. I don't know how the weather is going to be there, but I did Makalu with the G2, and they were really good," says Karl.

"But of course, you are not starting with the G2 from very early. You are putting them probably in a certain camp and going lighter for the other camps with a G5 or something like that".

La Sportiva's G5 and G2 boots are some of the best in the business for harsh alpine ascents. They feature large stud-like lugs and offer plenty of protection from the elements.

Conditions on Everest are unforgiving all year round. Even in the spring climbing season, temperatures are likely to plummet to depths of -26°C (-15°F) at the summit, so Karl will need all the protection he can get from his climbing gear.

Karl has yet to announce the official date for his upcoming Everest ascent, so stay tuned to Advnture for all the latest updates.

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Fancy an adrenaline rush? Check out Black Diamond's latest climbing film to see Austrian daredevil Babsi Zangerl become the first person to flash climb the monstrous El Capitan mountain in Yosemite National Park.

The historic ascent

Flash climbing refers to a climber successfully sending a route on their first attempt without falling, usually with knowledge of, but no prior experience of the climb.

Despite its fame and multiple previous attempts, the 7,573ft (2,307 m) El Capitan mountain had never been flash climbed until November 2024 when Zangerl made the first successful ascent.

Joined by her longtime partner Jacopo Larcher, Zangerl scaled the daunting Freerider route in just four days. Larcher also completed the climb but was unable to claim a flash after he fell at the Boulder Problem, a section made famous as the most difficult part of Alex Honnold's free solo climb of El Cap.

The achievement cemented Zangerl's place as one of the world's best all-round climbers, having previously made the first free ascents by a woman of multiple routes on El Cap and in the Alps.

Black Diamond Presents: Flashed

The new film, 'Black Diamond Presents: Flashed', takes you behind the scenes of the historic climb, with insightful commentary from Zangerl and Larcher and breath-taking shots of their ascent.

You can watch it for free, right now on YouTube.

"You only have one chance, and that puts a lot of pressure on you, especially on a big wall where you have to climb one thousand meters and there are many chances to fall," Zangerl comments during the film.

"The further I got up there, the more pressure I had. I told myself, the first and biggest goal is to send Freerider, and everything else, I can't really do anything about."

Zangerl's gear

Zangerl and Larcher were kitted out in the latest and greatest Black Diamond gear for the climb, including the sturdy Vapor helmet and dependable Camalot Ultralight camming device.

The pair slept inside a lightweight Perch Double Expedition Fly suspended from the rock wall, along with Black Diamond's Perch Double Portaledge.

The pair's full gear list is available on the Black Diamond website.

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Could climbing harm your health? New research has found that air pollution in indoor climbing gyms could be "among the highest ever documented worldwide," thanks to a high concentration of potentially harmful chemicals in climbing shoes.

In a study published in the ACS ES&T Air journal, researchers from the University of Vienna and EPFL Lausanne collected air samples from bouldering gyms in Austria, France, Spain, and Switzerland, where they were surprised to find dangerously high pollution levels, comparable to the busy roads of megacities. Levels were at their highest in smaller, confined climbing venues.

The culprit? Chemical additives in rubber shoe soles, released when climbers take to the wall. Researchers tested 30 pairs of climbing shoes and found many of the same additives present in car tires, some of which could be harmful to humans.

The substances - known as rubber derived compounds (RDCs) were found on the soles of climbing shoes, aerosol matter (particles in the air), on foot and hand holds and settled dust.

Researchers said the particles in the air were likely partly caused by climbers' shoes rubbing against the climbing wall, but were also being caused by climbers brushing the resulting dust off foot and hand holds, causing them to be air borne, where climbers and climbing gym staff could breathe them in.

While the exact effects of these additives are unclear, co-author Thilo Hofmann is calling on manufacturers to switch to less potentially harmful materials.

"These substances do not belong in the air we breathe," he told Phys.org.

"It makes sense to act before we know all the details about the risks, especially with regard to sensitive groups such as children.

"It is essential to switch to sole materials with fewer harmful substances."

Climbing is an increasingly popular sport in the US and abroad. More than six million Americans participated in some indoor climbing activity in 2024, and there are now over 500 climbing gyms in the States.

Climbing is generally thought to have a positive impact on your mental and physical health.

Research published in 2018 by the National Library of Medicine found that regular climbers benefit from a significantly improved range of motion and VO2max (the maximum rate at which your body uses oxygen) compared to non-climbers. Other studies have focused on the growing sport's mental health benefits.

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If there's a Black Diamond headlamp or pair of trekking poles you've been thinking about purchasing, it's time to get off the fence. The Utah-based outdoor brand has announced upcoming price increases as a result of the Trump administration's global tariffs, and for those of you in the US, it's going to hurt.

In an announcement on Instagram, Black Diamond reveals that price tags on many of its products will increase for US shoppers by as much as 10 - 25%. That means the award-winning Spot 400 Headlamp could cost you more than $60, the bestselling Alpine Start Hoody upwards of $230, and the popular Distance Z Trekking Poles might set you back nearly $175.

"These tariffs have dramatically increased the cost of producing our gear—by more than double in some cases. We’ve absorbed as much of this impact as we can, but to continue delivering the high-performance equipment you count on, a price adjustment has become necessary," writes the brand, calling the move an attempt to adapt to an "unprecedented and uncertain" global economic environment.

"Our global supply chain is built on long-standing, trusted partnerships, operating 41 factories in 17 countries in a tightly managed network built around safety, reliability, and performance—things we aren’t willing to compromise to chase cheaper suppliers," says Black Diamond.

In our recent article on how the tariffs might affect the price and production of outdoor gear, we explain that much of the manufacturing of clothes and equipment from our favourite brands takes place in Asia in countries such as China, which is facing a 125% tariff, and in Cambodia and Vietnam, both originally threatened with 49% tariffs.

For brands such as Black Diamond and Columbia Sportswear, whose share prices have dropped as a result of these tariff increases, the higher tariffs raise their cost base, which makes it harder to maintain profit margins.

The post has already garnered hundreds of comments, with the brand assuring customers that its pricing strategy will be fluid pending changes from the government.

"We are committed to bringing prices down if the tariffs are lifted," responds the brand to one such comment.

The price changes go into effect on May 5, and of course, they'll take a while to show up at the cash register, but eventually you might find that some of the gear you've been eyeballing could have a heftier impact on your wallet.

If the tariffs are already squeezing your budget, REI currently has lots of deals on Black Diamond gear, such as 25% off the Oz Quickpack of 6 Cams for climbing. We've also rounded up the best cheap hiking boots we've tested for you so the economic crisis doesn't mean you sacrifice safety on the trails.

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Two climbers have died on Europe's tallest mountain after a group of five were caught in unforgiving conditions.

The all-Turkish climbing group was descending from the Elbrus mountain in Russia's Kabardino-Balkaria region when the weather suddenly deteriorated and the group split in two.

Climbers Izzet Koseoglu and Adnan Sari were able to safely travel down the mountain, while Mehmet Kocaakca, Cihan Yildirim, and Kazim Guler stayed in harrowing conditions near the summit.

Russian search and rescue workers quickly made their way up and found the bodies of Kocaakca and Guler.

Cihan Yildirim, the third climber to stay on the mountain, was discovered alive and swiftly taken for medical treatment.

A statement from the Turkish Mountaineering Federation confirmed the deaths: "We are deeply saddened by this painful loss. We wish Allah’s mercy to our mountaineer friends who lost their lives and offer our condolences to their grieving families and the mountaineering community,” it read.

“We sincerely thank our Foreign Ministry, consular officials, and Russian authorities for their support in this difficult process."

The incident occurred on April 22, and all three surviving climbers are now expected to travel back to Turkey later in the week.

Standing 18,510ft (5,642m) above sea level, Elbrus is the tallest mountain in Europe.

It's climbed by about 10,000 to 12,000 people every year, and is generally considered to be safe, with just a 0.1% mortality rate.

Climbers can expect to encounter thick snow and freezing conditions during a typical climb, which usually takes between 12 to 14 days, including acclimatization time.

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Alpinists in Switzerland have smashed a daunting speed climbing challenge in the Alps by over 10 hours.

Swiss / Austrian climbing duo Nicolas Hojac and Philipp Brugger ascended the treacherous north faces of three formidable mountains in record time. The pair faced ice walls, sheer drops, and hazardous underfoot conditions to summit the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains in 15 hours and 30 minutes.

The previous record of 25 hours was set by legendary alpine climbers Ueli Steck and Stephan Siegrist in 2004. It stood for more than two decades before Hojac and Brugger's successful attempt.

They pair had attempted the challenge multiple times before, but repeatedly found themselves the victims of harsh weather conditions and illness.

After finally completing a successful ascent, Brugger told Red Bull: “It was a really emotional moment for me.

“We’ve been wanting to take on this project together for a year now, but then I experienced a perforated bowel. I never would have thought that I would be standing on the Jungfrau with Nico one year later.”

The friends began their ascent at night, equipped with head lamps, ice axes, crampons, and plenty of safety gear. They put all the advances of modern mountaineering equipment to good use with sturdy mountain boots, helmets, and Gore-Tex clothes.

Making a steady start, they summited the 13,015ft (3,967m) Eiger mountain in 5 hours and 53 minutes before speeding down to take on Mönch and Jungfrau.

Friends and fellow climbers supported them with food and water along the route. Before their final ascent, Hojac and Brugger were brought French fries by facilities maintenance workers at Jungfrau’s High Altitude Research Center. They set off on their final ascent soon after and completed the three-peaks challenge in record time.

The formidable north faces of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are considered to be three of the most challenging climbs in the Alps.

Jungfrau is the tallest of the three, standing at 13,642ft (4,158m). It’s well known for its towering presence over the Bernese Alps.

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Sunglasses are an often overlooked accessory for outdoor exploration, but they shouldn't be. Your eyes are vulnerable to the sun all year round, and overexposure can cause long-lasting damage, especially in exposed backcountry areas.

The best sunglasses protect your peepers from sun damage, provide a crystal clear view of your surroundings, and look cool in the process.

These two new Revo models aim to tick all the boxes - providing a sleek, protective experience in the wilderness. The limited-edition Moab and Himalaya glasses feature 360° protection from the sun with durable, protective lenses and side covers that block out unwanted rays.

The Himalaya glasses were designed with chilly frozen environments in mind, while the Moab glasses were built to handle the heat in rugged desert landscapes.

Revo crafted the new pairs in collaboration with professional climber and wildlife filmmaker Renan Ozturk.

Over a 20-year career, the Turkish-American daredevil has completed and documented multiple breath-taking climbs. He's best known for summiting the hair-raising Shark's Fin route on the Himalayan Meru Peak with fellow film-maker and climbing legend Jimmy Chin.

Ozturk has represented Revo as an ambassador for more than a decade and worked in tandem with the brand to create the latest pairs - dubbed the Revo x Reo collection after his initials.

"I’ve relied on Revo’s Traverse sunglasses throughout my expeditions, and now, I’m thrilled to channel my experiences and passion into designing two styles that truly capture the essence of extreme exploration," said Ozturk.

"From the rugged Moab desert to the majestic Himalayan Mountains, these glasses are designed to protect your vision while elevating your style."

The Himalaya glasses feature brown leather side shields and a H2O heritage blue glass lens, designed to stop sun damage in snowy, high-altitude environments.

Built to protect against the harsh rays of rugged desert landscapes, the Moab glasses pair a smoky green glass lens with leather side shields and a silver frame. Both are now available for $299 (£239) on the Revo website.

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Despite Trump’s surprise 90-day pause on a great deal of his April 2-announced tariffs, it seems inevitable that we’re going to be shelling out more at the checkouts for our favorite outdoor items.

The threat of trade war alone has created huge uncertainty for businesses around the world, destabilizing prices, and the 10% universal duty remains in place, which they are already having to absorb.

Much of the manufacturing of clothes and equipment from our favourite brands takes place in Asia in countries such as China, which is facing a 125% tariff, and in Cambodia and Vietnam, both originally threatened with 49% tariffs.

The US Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) has said that these tariffs will hurt American businesses, workers and consumers. The number of Americans taking part in outdoor activity is at an all-time high, it revealed, with 175.8 million participating last year.

“These tariffs will raise costs for American manufacturers, retailers and families,” says Kent Ebersole, president of OIA.

“That’s going to slow growth, put pressure on small and mid-sized outdoor companies and could force some to close their doors. These tariffs also make it more difficult for global outdoor brands to operate in the US and maintain their American workforce.”

For brands such as Black Diamond and Columbia Sportswear, whose share prices have dropped as a result of these tariff increases, the situation is challenging. The higher tariffs raise their cost base, which makes it harder to maintain profit margins.

Logistics expert Will Kogan explains: “As publicly traded companies, any price hikes or shrinking profit margins directly affect their stock market performance. This has led to investor concerns, reflected in the decline in share prices. The challenge for these companies now is finding a balance between raising prices and maintaining their customer base.

"For US consumers, the effects of these price hikes are becoming increasingly apparent. For high-end brands like Yeti, this could impact demand, as consumers might start to opt for more affordable alternatives, especially in a time of economic uncertainty."

When will the price of gear rise?

Savvy brands have been trying to stay one step ahead of the looming tariffs, importing as much product as they could before April. Imports have been high since summer 2024, the US National Retail Federation has revealed.

“Retailers have been bringing merchandise into the country for months in attempts to mitigate against rising tariffs, but that opportunity has come to an end with the imposition of the ‘reciprocal’ tariffs,” US National Retail Federation spokesperson Jonathan Gold said.

Damon Street from Twist Distribution, EU distributor of Exell Outdoors, which owns brands such as Sierra Designs and Kelty, agrees that businesses have been preparing for these tariffs long before April 2.

"They have probably already been through two waves of pricing," he says.

However, he describes Trump’s latest 90-day pause as a “lifeline”. It will give companies a chance to manufacture and deliver on orders already placed and time to plan for the future.

How will brands absorb these costs?

Street explains that at this time of year, as brands get ready to present next year's spring/summer product at trade shows, they usually have pricing cemented. However, with the economic uncertainty, they are still working it out.

He predicts that they are likely to protect key products while pushing costs onto "accessories".

“Brands are having to look at what are the key products they need, the things that define their brands, and maintain performance there.

For Exell it's their sleeping bags, backpacks and tents. For Kelty, our best-seller is the Tru.Comfort Doublewide two-person sleeping bag. We will make sure this is hitting the right price point going forwards. Perhaps we will have to remove focus from other accessories, the things that are 'nice' to have," he explains.

Businesses are also considering manufacturing long-term. At Excell they have built a factory in Alabama where they can manufacture sleeping bags. However, it's not going to be a quick solution.

"We can switch on manufacturing there," Street says. "But where the products are currently being made, the quality is A1. To replicate the volumes and the quality is going to be a big ask."

Will gear cost less in Europe than the US?

One interesting development is that we may see global pricing disparity, Street predicts.

“At Exell, we have always maintained a global pricing policy. A £100 product in the UK might sell at €115 in the EU and $125 in the US. The brand price is roughly aligned, similar to Nike or Adidas products. The brand price is roughly the same whether you buy it in London, Munich or New York. This may be affected as realistically each territory will have to look at what they need for their own markets and find the right price point."

The end of store discounts?

Further down the supply chain, Street believes retailers will have to reconsider pricing too, which the consumer will probably notice over the coming months.

"As new deliveries arrive with higher-priced product, retailers can blend the price, and get a blended margin that won’t be too bad. However, as they run out of older stock that was bought in at the right price, the margin will be hard to hold without significant price increases.

He believes initially retailers will have to stop discounting products to keep their profit margins and sell at the RRP.

Ultimately, he says the consumer will have to make a choice to spend more or buy from cheaper brands.

Extend the life of your gear

With prices set to hike, it’s more beneficial than ever to takes steps to make your gear last longer.

• Invest in quality – paying more for well-made and durable gear is more financially sound that investing in budget-friendly options, which can be false economy. If you don’t have funds to lay out for brand new gear, consider buying used gear. There’s advice in our article How to shop for second hand outdoor gear.
• Look after your clothes – keep them clean and wash with Nikwax, or unscented detergent, after every few uses. Always store gear clean and dry. Repair tears, and if you can't yourself, employ someone who can.
• Reproof outer layers – when water starts to breach jackets and trousers, use a DWR product to make them waterproof again. There’s helpful advice in How to waterproof a jacket.
• Repair gear – there are amazing gear-repair companies out there who will bring your tired clothes and equipment back to life, especially if the item has a lifetime warranty. Whether it’s replacing a broken backpack zip or washing a filthy sleeping bag, there may be someone out there who can do it at a fair price.

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If you're just getting into climbing, you probably have two things on your mind: getting used to uncomfortable shoes and keeping costs of kit down. Right now, you can solve both of those problems with the Scarpa Force V climbing shoes, which are just $92.92 at Steep and Cheap. That's a colossal saving of 45% off these highly-rated shoes, which are great for beginners.

The slightly assymetrical flat on these shoes helps you learn to fight gravity without too much discomfort and smooth and soft unlined suede stretches to conform to your foot.

Of course, comfort isn't the only aim of the game and a sensitive Flexan midsole with thick Vibram XS Edge rubber sole gives your feet sensitivity and protection on moderately graded routes.

This deal applies to men's sizing in the Mangrove/Papaya colorway and women's sizing in Ice Fall/Mandarin Red, and right now all sizes are still available. However, great deals get snapped up fast on Steep and Cheap, so we recommend moving quickly.

If you're not in the US and looking for a deal on climbing shoes, scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on some of our favorite models where you are.

For switching between these and your approach shoes, there's a decent-sized pull tab at the heel and you can secure them in seconds with two hook-and-loop fastenings.

Not in the US? These are today's best deals on some of our favorite models where you are:

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Climb in comfort and snag yourself a great deal on these stretchy and supportive Black Diamond climbing pants, which are now 60% off and running out fast.

Right now, the Black Diamond Notion men's climbing pants are available for just $37.73 on the REI website, way down from their list price of $95.

These specialist climbing pants are designed to support your lower body whether you're scrambling up a climbing wall or tackling a tough outdoor boulder problem.

The elastic drawstring waistband sits comfortably underneath a harness while reinforced knee pads stand up to chimneying, kneebars, and other full-body climbing techniques. These pants also feature a seat gusset to improve flexibility and allow you greater freedom of movement.

The Black Diamond Notion pants are made from a soft, stretchy combination of 98% organic cotton and elastane.

Like what you see? Don't delay, as this pair has now been discontinued. The Cedarwood Green colorway has already sold out in sizes small and medium, although both are available in Clean Blue.

The Black Diamond Notion pants are also available in women's sizes for $69.73, 26% off their list price.

Not in the U.S? Don't stress; Look below for today's best deals on Black Diamond climbing gear where you are.

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A good quality ice axe is non-negotiable for tough winter walking and climbing in the backcountry. If you plan to take on tricky winter conditions, don't compromise with sub-standard gear; get the best there is, like this model from DMM, now almost $25 off.

Right now, you can snag the DMM Spire Tech ice axe for just $99.99 at Outdoor Gear Exchange - 20% off its list price of $124.95.

This well-rated ice axe is designed for tough, technical ascents. It's made from anodized aluminum, which is both lightweight and sturdy, and features a slightly bent shaft for aggressive pickup and clearance when swinging.

Climbing expert Matthew Jones was extremely impressed when he took the DMM Spire Tech to the backcountry.

"The front point penetrates superbly – in many conditions it performs almost as well as a technical ice tool, holding in ice well without too much shattering," Matthew said in his four-and-a-half star review.

"On mixed terrain, it’s also great for hooking over rock bulges, and when daggering, it also gives additional clearance for hands, keeping them drier and reducing the chances of bruised or busted knuckles."

The DMM Spire Tech ice axe boasts the coveted top spot in our guide to the best ice axes. Take a look for more superb option.

If you're not in the U.S. you can check out today's best deals on the DMM Spire Tech ice axe below.

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Climbers using one of Black Diamond's premier climbing harnesses are being urged to return the product after the company said users were in danger of "serious injury or death".

Black Diamond issued a recall of the popular Vision climbing harness last week after it received a report of the waistbelt failing after heavy use. In its recall notice, the Utah-based company described the issue as the "premature degradation of its specialized materials and construction."

The statement continued: “This has the potential to create a risk of serious injury or death.

"Consumers who own the Black Diamond Vision harness should immediately stop using it and follow the recall procedures."

Affected climbers can claim $200 in credit or a full refund via the Black Diamond website.

Weighing just under 8.8oz / 250g, the Vision harness was designed to be a lightweight, minimalistic option for ascending tricky alpine routes.

It's the second Black Diamond product in under a month that's been recalled over safety concerns. On February 18, we reported the recall of several popular Black Diamond avalanche beacons. This was due to a corrosion issue that caused the beacons to malfunction, potentially endangering the lives of backcountry skiers and snowboarders relying on them in an emergency.

Pick the perfect harness

A dependable climbing harness is vital for a safe, secure climb, whether you're in harsh backcountry conditions or the local gym.

If you're in the market for a new climbing harness, look below for our top tips on how to choose one that will keep you safe and secure while climbing.

• Type: To pick the right harness, you'll need to know what you're going to be using it for. You'll generally see different harnesses for gym, trad, alpine, and ice climbing. Gym harnesses are usually lightweight, trad harnesses feature lots of gear loops, alpine harnesses are more basic, and ice climbing harnesses are designed to withstand cold weather conditions.
• Size: Harnesses typically range in size from XS to XL based on your waist and leg circumferences. The right size can be adjusted to be tighter or looser.
• Fit and comfort: A good harness should feel snug and comfortable without pinching when you move. The waist belt should sit just above your hip bones and should not move around too much. The adjustable leg loops should be tight enough to keep you firmly in place without digging into your thighs. To ensure comfort, look for a model with ample padding.

For more on climbing harnesses, check out our complete guide on how to choose the right harness and how to properly put one on.

• The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain
• The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain

Have you ever been to Courmayeur? The Italian town enjoys a spectacular setting, at the foot of arguably Mont Blanc’s most impressive side, with the intimidating black tower of Aiguille Noire clawing at the sky towards the white dome of Western Europe’s highest mountain. It was in Courmayeur, 1909, that English intellectual and mountaineer Oscar Eckenstein handed his drawing of the original crampon design to a local blacksmith. The blacksmith’s name was Henri Grivel.

Fast forward over a century and Grivel’s name is still the most famous name in crampon manufacture, especially in Europe. In the intervening years, Henri’s son Laurent went on to invent front points in 1929, an innovation without which there’d be no ice climbing. Then, in 2003, the brand solved the issue of snow build up between the spikes with its anti-balling plates. Grivel continues to be at the forefront of crampon design to this day.

Crampons tend to have either 10 or 12 points, with 10 points suited to winter walking and glacier travel and 12 points geared towards more technical mountaineering, alpinism and ice climbing. When it comes to 12-point crampons, Grivel’s G12 is the benchmark, with a formidable reputation and popularity across the world. This tried and tested classic tops our best crampons buying guide at the time of writing, while the brand champion it as the “king of crampons”.

However, it’s not the only 12-point device the brand offer. Enter the Air Tech, a lighter option for mountaineering adventures that’s available with multiple binding systems. I tested the New-Matic EVO version of this superb traction device.

First impressions

To the uninitiated, there wouldn’t appear to be a huge difference between the Air Tech and the G12. However, as soon as you start studying the spikes, the differences are obvious. The G12 features long, sharp daggers at the front and serrated blades at the back; whereas, aside from the similar front points, the Air Tech’s teeth are shorter and serrated.

While I’ve used the G12 before, my previous main pair of crampons were the Black Diamond Seracs, another popular choice among 12-point devices. With a similar price and weight to the Air Techs, they make for a good comparison. The front points on the Air Tech are noticeably more aggressive, as are the serrated spikes further back too. I was intruiged to see how performance would differ in the winter backcountry.

Fitting the Air Techs was a doddle, though the New-Matics use the same style of binding system as my previous Seracs, so I was already well-practised.

Meet the reviewer

Features

The Air Tech New-Matic is a C2 crampon, which means it fits B2 winter hiking boots, such as the Scarpa Manta Tech GTX and the La Sportiva Trango Tower GTX. The binding system comprises a plastic heel clip that snaps into place on the boot’s heel welt and a plastic toe basket that wraps around the front of the boot. This is then all brought together by threading the tether strap through the toe binding and back to the heel clip, before tightening it all up.

C2 crampons come in two halves that are connected by the flex bar (sometimes called the center bar) which is slightly curved towards the big toe. The flex bar has slots along its length, a bit like a belt, allowing you to adjust the overall length of the crampon to properly fit your boot of choice.

In terms of spike layout, the Air Tech is fairly standard for a 12-point device. There’s two sharp horizontal front point daggers for hold on the steeper snow and ice during more technical mountaineering missions. Between here and the midfoot are six triangular spikes, smooth on their front side and serrated with semi-circular indents on their back. The front four of these are sharpened to a point, whereas the back two are flattened.

Grivel use Nickel-Crome Molybdenum Steel for the spikes. The nickel chromium and molybdenum alloys are added in precise percentages to give the resulting steel alloy both its toughness and its ability to perform in low temperatures. This has two advantages over standard stainless steel. One, the spikes maintain their sharpness for much longer and, two, when stainless steel is processed, it can lead to tiny cracks forming. This can lead to durability issues further down the line, not what one needs when hundreds of meters up in a remote gully.

As mentioned, Grivel introduced the anti-ball (or antibott) plate to the world in 2003, solving the issue of dangerous snow built up between the spikes. These are the two rubbery, dome shaped bulges, bearing the brand’s name, on the underside of the device. They compress with each step and spring back out to shed snow from between the points – ingenious.

For those wanting even less weight on their feet, Grivel also sell the Air Tech Light, which weighs in at an impressive 556g (1.2 lbs) – a significant weight saving. The Light version makes use of aluminium rather than steel and are perfect for those who want move across glaciers and up snow slopes at speed, though rocky terrain is liable to wear them out faster than their steel counterparts.

I was testing the New-Matic EVO version of the Air Techs, which is a classic C2 crampon featuring a heel clip at the back and a basket at the front. Other options include the New-Classic EVO, which features a basket at the back and front, making it compatible with a wider range of winter boots. Then, there's the Cramp-O-Matic EVO and Dual-Matic EVO fittings, with heel clips and metal toe bails for a secure fit to a B3 boot.

On the hill

So far, I've tested the Air Techs in the wintry fells of England's Lake District and South Wales' Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), mixing easy winter walking with ascents of steeper slopes and gullies. As I expected, the Air Techs were well within their comfort zone and they were a pleasure to wear everytime I liberated them from their crampon bag.

If you've put crampons on before, fitting the Air Techs will be straightforward enough. If you need to tinker with the fit, there are plenty of customization options, including the option of moving the heel bar up and down on its clip by slotting it into the different grooves. This was admittedly a bit of a fiddly process but the option of tailoring the clip precisely to a boot's welt is a welcome one. The plastic in the heel binding is super durable – developed for use in ski bindings – which is a good thing as the process of clipping in places plenty of strain on these little components.

These are some of the lightest 12-point crampons around. At 832g (1.8lbs) per pair, they sneak under the weight of something like the Petzl Vasak and are noticeably lighter than the G12s. I've combined them with both the Aku Tengu and the Salewa Ortles Edge boots and they were secure throughout and allowed me to move comfortably with a little more speed than heavier crampons.

So, for winter walking, the Air Techs are ideal. This is especially true on the kind of ridge traverses where you find yourself on firm snow one minute and then rock the next. I found that the short spikes feel more stable on rock than crampons with longer points do.

While the spikes aren't as aggressive as some, they still provide all the traction one could wish for on low-grade mountaineering terrain and easy ice. The front spikes hold beautifully when front pointing and are nice and precise when perched on rock edges during mixed climbs. It's hard to say where the Air Techs would meet their limit when it comes to technicality, though general consensus is that you'd be safer in C3 crampons once you get into the realms of ice climbing and tougher mountaineering.

Grivel's tried-and-true antibott design works beautifully at stopping snow from building up between the spikes. The plates are durable too, though if they do begin to wear out, you can always get Grivel to fit a replacement.

When it comes to stashing the crampons away, they collapse down into a small and compact unit. I measured the bundle at 28 x 9 x 11 cms.

So far, I've been impressed with the lightweight versatility of the Air Techs and I look forward to many more snowy adventures in them in the future. Compared to my previous Seracs, performance levels are similar when subjected to the kind of low-grade mountaineering I tend to do, though the Air Techs are that little bit lighter.

• How Advnture tests products

Crampons are essential tools for mountaineers and alpinists, providing the wearer with unbeatable traction on steep, icy terrain. However, as is the case with an ice axe, simply having crampons doesn’t make your wintry adventures any safer – you have to know how to use them properly. That all starts with how to put them on.

Over the years, we’ve seen plenty of people lose a crampon halfway into a mountaineering route. In these cases, it’s likely that the device wasn’t fitted correctly and, fortunately, it’s usually happened on relatively forgiving ground without serious consequences. While it’s true that we all learn from our mistakes, trust us when we say that you don’t want to lose a crampon on committing mountain ground. Knowing how to put crampons on properly from the get-go is the best way to stay safe.

In this step-by-step guide, one of our mountaineering experts takes us through the process – from selecting the right crampons in the first place to securely attaching them to your footwear.

How to put crampons on

Here are the 8 steps you should take when putting crampons on. For more about each step, click on the links below or scroll further down the guide.

1 Get the right crampons for your boots: crampons are only compatible with certain types of boot.

2 Practise putting them on before heading out: you don’t want to be faffing around too much while halfway up a snowy mountain.

3 Know when to put them on: you only really need crampons when venturing into steep, icy terrain.

4 Find a suitable spot: you’ll want a relatively flat area to put your crampons on.

5 Place crampons so that they’re easy to step into: open up the binding system and place the crampons slightly uphill of yourself.

6 Step into the crampon and clip in at the heel: the heel clip should snap into place at the back of the boot.

7 Thread the straps through the binding system and tidy it up: guide the straps through the slot in the front cage, through the double buckle and then back through a single loop of the buckle.

8 Do a visual inspection and give them a test: check everything looks correct or ask your buddy to do it for you, before testing that the fit is secure by stamping around.

Meet the expert

What are crampons?

Crampons are spikes attached to a metal frame and a binding system that can be secured to a mountaineering or winter hiking boot.

The spikes, known as points or teeth, provide excellent traction on steep, icy terrain. Between the front and the heel of the device is the linking bar, which can be adjusted to shorten or lengthen the crampon. As well as the points, the underside features rounded areas known as anti-balling plates. These are designed to stop snow from accumulating between the teeth.

The binding system comprises a front cage, a heel clip (or heel basket depending on type) and binding straps to pull everything together. The straps are secured with a double loop buckle.

Get the right crampons for your boots

Unlike other winter traction devices, such as Yaktrax or Microspikes, crampons won’t fit every kind of hiking shoe or boot.

Mountaineering and winter hiking boots – often called mountain boots – are specifically designed to be compatible with crampons, featuring a notably stiff outsole and often a heel welt for a crampon’s heel clip to snap onto. Boots that feature a heel welt are known as B2s or mountain boots.

There are also B1s, which don’t have a heel welt but will still fit some types of crampon. At the other end of the scale are B3s – boots used for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. These have both a heel welt and a ridge at the toes for an even more secure attachment.

You’ll struggle to attach crampons to other types of footwear. If you do manage it, they’re likely to come loose, as the shoe will be too flexible compared to a mountain boot.

As well as this, there’s the fact that different types of crampons suit different kinds of boot. C1 crampons, known as flexible or basket binding crampons, wrap around the boot using a heel basket, toe binding and straps. Standard C2 crampons are stiffer and feature a heel clip for a secure attachment to B2 boots. Finally, C3 crampons are the most technical tools of the lot, designed for winter climbing and high-altitude mountaineering. They’re the stiffest and clip into the boot at both the heel and the toe.

If all of this sounds a bit confusing, getting it right is a doddle, as the types match up. So, a C1 crampon is best for a B1 boot, a C2 crampon is best for a B2 boot and, surprise surprise, a C3 crampon is best for a B3 boot.

For the purposes of this guide, I’ll mainly be talking about standard C2 crampons, the kind that feature a heel clip for attaching to a B2 mountain boot, though the general principles are the same for C1 crampons too.

Practise putting them on before heading out

The length of a pair of crampons is adjustable, otherwise you’d have to buy a specific size. So, it should go without saying that you should fit your crampons to your boots at home or in the valley before heading out into the mountains. An adjustment clip is moved up and down the several numbered holes on the linking bar, allowing you to find the exact fit for your boots.

It may also be the case that, having fitted the crampons, you’re left with quite a lot of excess strap. Cut off this surplus length, as the only purpose it'll serve is as a trip hazard. You should leave just enough to give you a little to play with, basically enough to grab and tighten.

If you're using a C2 crampon, it may be that the heel clip needs some adjustment. Some crampons allow you to adjust the position of the bar that attaches the clip to the points. This may be necessary if getting the clip to snap into place is too much of a struggle.

As well as ensuring the fit is correct, it’s worth practising attaching your crampons several times at home anyway. When you’re in the thick of a mountain adventure, you want to be able to add your crampons with the minimum of fuss. Rehearse all of this while wearing your hiking gloves, as you won’t want to be taking them off while on the hill if it’s absolutely Baltic.

Know when to put them on

You don’t necessarily need crampons as soon as the mountains start wearing their white coat in winter, as you’ll be able to make plenty of progress by kicking steps in the snow with your winter boots, or cutting steps with your ice axe.

However, you may come to a point where these tactics prove either inefficient or the terrain becomes so icy that your boots are no longer providing enough purchase. It’s on steep, icy ground that crampons come into their own. It’s obviously worth fitting crampons on relatively kind terrain before you get to this stage – this is a judgement that comes with experience.

Find a suitable spot

Before you get your crampons out of your pack, you’ll want to find a relatively flat area – though a bit of a slope is useful for placing your crampons slightly uphill when stepping into them. You can always use your ice axe to create a level platform and don’t forget to flatten out some ground for your backpack too – you don’t want it sliding off and doing its best impression of a sledge while you’re busy fitting your spikes.

You'll also want to make sure you've got a crampon bag to protect the contents of your pack from the sharp points. Just don't forget to stash the bag back in the pack while you're fitting your crampons, otherwise it might blow away!

Place crampons so that they are easy to step into

Ideally, you’ll want to stay stood up when putting your crampons on. This avoids subjecting your waterproofs to wear and tear against the terrain below, saves your backside from getting thoroughly frozen and stops you sliding off down the mountain. Place the crampons in front of you so that they’re easy to step into, with the straps, front cage (also referred to as the toe binding) and heel clip out of the way.

If you’re on a slope, which is more than likely, place the crampons slightly uphill of where you’re stood. Do nothing in haste here, the last thing you want to do is mix up left and right – look for the curve in the linking bar. L and R are also often marked on the crampons themselves – but not always.

Step into the crampon and clip in at the heel

Step into the crampon, with your toes right up to the front cage and your heel snug to the lugs at the back. Once your foot’s in, lift the heel clip so that the bottom of the clip aligns with your boot’s heel welt. Next, push the top of the clip forward so that it snaps into place on the back of the boot.

Thread the straps through the binding system

Now, run the binding strap up through the slot on the front cage and back through both loops of the double buckle on the opposite side. Take time to ensure the straps don’t get twisted, as this could lead to them becoming loose later on. Then, feed the strap back through the buckle’s front loop and pull until tight. You should have already cut the strap down to size before being out on the mountain.

Do a visual inspection and give them a test

Check all is in order, before setting out into the sort of technical terrain you’ve put the crampons on for in the first place. You can do this on your own or ask a buddy to quickly assess your work. Things to keep an eye out for are your heel not being flush against the back lugs, the heel clip not sitting properly on the welt, twisted straps, excess straps that could cause a trip hazard and that you haven’t committed a cardinal sin by mixing up left and right.

Finally, stamp around on the ground around your fitting site to check the attachment is secure. You should quickly be able to feel if all is not well. Your crampon should not be loose in the slightest – it should feel as though it is a spiky extension of your boot.

And you're good to go! Have fun. Stomping around winter mountains wearing crampons and wielding an ice axe is one of life's great pleasures. Enjoy!

La Sportiva is a name that needs no introduction in the climbing and mountaineering world. The Italian brand has steadily garnered a reputation for excellence since its inception in 1928, when Narciso Delladio started out by crafting wooden leather boots for farmers and lumberjacks in the Dolomites.

I’ve been a big fan of the brand since I purchased my first pair of winter hiking boots, the iconic Trango Tower GTX, during my journey from hiker to mountaineer. As this journey evolved, I soon needed climbing shoes too, and I chose La Sportiva for my first pair, based on the recommendation of the lovely people at Mile End Climbing Wall in East London.

My chosen pair were the La Sportiva Mythos. At the time, I wasn’t aware that these were legendary among climbers for their all-day comfort. They were very much the brand’s first really popular climbing shoe when released in 1991, so much so that the design hasn’t changed to this day, though the more recent Eco version is a more sustainable upgrade. This is the only model available these days in the States, though the original is still on the shelves in Europe.

A flat-lasted, neutral all-rounder boasting famous levels of comfort and decent performance, it’s easy to see why the Mythos is considered a classic. The video below reveals more:

First impressions

The Mythos has a timeless quality to it, looking both retro and somehow modern at the same time, despite having been around the block more than a few times. Perhaps it’s the Italian suede leather that does it.

First wear reveals a nicely padded tongue and a sense of precision. The lacing system wraps around the heel, something that made the shoe unique upon launch in 1991.

The laces allowed me to achieve a very snug fit, which is obviously important when it comes to precision and performance. My toes didn’t feel bunched in as with more aggressive climbing shoes, even though the front of the shoe narrows significantly. Overall, I was impressed fairly with the balance between the shoe’s comfort and its precise feeling fit.

Fabrics and design

Considering this is a product that was originally intended as a competition climbing shoe, it's remarkable how the Mythos has become such a go to for multi-pitch climbers, perhaps an indication of how rock climbing has changed since the early 90s. Its popularity among multi-pitch trad aficionados is due to how comfortable it is during extended periods of wear. The suede upper expands just as the foot swells during hot afternoons on the crag, providing comfort and precision both at the start of the day and at the end. The suede and protective rubber rand also add a degree of durability.

The sole is provided by fellow Italian brand Vibram, in this case using its XS Edge compound. As the name suggests, the compound is designed for high performance when edging, holding its shape and providing as much friction as possible. The same compound is used in Scarpa’s Instinct Lace, Vapor V and La Sportiva’s Kataki and Katana, among others.

A notable design feature, that was ahead of its time back in 1991, is the way the harder rubber of the sole was used as a rand at the heel. This sort of rand is commonplace these days and allows for heel hooking on small edges, giving the climber a greater chance of sending overhanging routes, as well as a welcome opportunity to take the weight off their hands.

Fit and comfort

A key concern with La Sportiva climbing shoes is to get the sizing right. Rock climbing shoes shouldn’t be uncomfortable, but they should also fit very snugly for maximum performance. My everyday footwear size is a UK 8 (US 8.5 or 9), but for my pair of Mythos shoes, I settled on a UK 6 (US 7), having taken some time to try different sizes while purchasing. La Sportiva actually recommend this kind of downsizing, saying: ‘to optimize performance and ensure a stronger grip, more experienced climbers suggest buying a climbing shoe that is 2 sizes smaller than the size used for other types of footwear’.

This meant that I ended up with a relatively comfortable, yet very snug fit. While it’s certainly aided my performance, I did find that they took a little breaking in, even with their soft and comfortable reputation. I’d say that, if comfort is your number one priority, don’t go too snug. However, once broken in, the Mythos lived up to the hype, allowing me to climb for extended periods without too much discomfort and, as has been commented upon many times before, it eventually shaped itself to my foot. It’s a real balancing act, as if you leave too much room, performance will suffer, particularly when edging.

On the crag

I’ve been enjoying my pair of Mythos climbing shoes for more than five years, climbing in places like Britain’s Wye Valley, the Peak District and the Scottish Highlands, as well as on sport crags in the Alps. I’m admittedly not much of a boulderer, nor am I a high-grade sport climber – my preferred climbs are easier multi-pitch routes – I came to climbing from scrambling and mountaineering, after all. For these kinds of adventures, the long-lasting comfort and solid performance of the Mythos is ideal.

Sure, when it comes to edging, more technical, aggressive shoes have the… edge, such as the Scarpa Instinct Lace. But, for a neutral shoe – the type of climbing shoe best suited to beginners and all-day wear – the Mythos certainly holds its own. The toe section, although not so tight that my toes were bunched together, is relatively pointed, good for finding purchase on small features, as well as for jamming into cracks. This is why the shoe is perennially popular with crack climbers. This, coupled with its comfort, explains why big wall climbers in the States and in the Dolomites frequently opt for the Mythos.

As mentioned, the heel rand provides the platform for effective heel hooking too, while the sole is nicely formed and flexible enough for decent smearing on featureless slabs, where the XS Edge provided a good level of friction.

When taking multi-pitch routes, particularly those where you’re going to be squeezing your foot into vice-like cracks, protection is paramount. You don’t want your foot to feel like it’s been through the proverbial grinder. Fortunately, I’ve always found the Mythos’ to be nicely protective, thanks to the wrap-around rand that provides an effective shield against abrasion.

So, cracks, tick. Heel hooks, tick. Smearing, tick. Edging, could be stronger. But, for an all-round shoe that’ll stay comfortable for hours on end, this is a great shout.

With the holidays fast approaching, if you're stuck for ideas on what to get your mountain-loving loved ones, we've got some good news.

Patagonia's Ascensionist backpack has had its price slashed, but don't sleep on this one as we think it'll be a popular deal.

Boasting 35L of capacity, the Ascensionist backpack is large enough to get your gear into the mountains, but small enough to climb with, and it's now available for just $72.73, way down from its list price of $189.

In addition to its great price, the Ascensionist is a tough and reliable option for backcountry travel, made from sturdy 420-denier recycled ripstop nylon materials.

Packed with smart, comforting technology, this backpack uses dual spindrift closure to expand or collapse depending on the load. This uber-smart feature supports your back by effectively distributing weight.

Suited to hikers and climbers alike, the Ascensionist backpack is ready and waiting for extreme expeditions, with an adjustable ice axe carry compartment to store alpine equipment.

Although this Patagonia pack is currently available in both Small and Large sizes, it's selling fast, so make sure to snag yours before inventory runs out.

For more ideas for gifts for climbers, check out our Advnture Christmas climbing gift guide.

Not in the US? Not to worry!

We've sorted the best daily deals on Patagonia Ascensionist backpacks where you are.

• The best hiking backpacks 2024 from the lightest daypacks to sturdy alpine haulers
• The best daypacks 2024 for shorter hikes and casual walks

German climbing brand Edelrid has announced a new type of belay assistance that it says will lead to greater safety in the sport.

The OHMEGA is designed to be used on the first piece of protection when climbing a wall, crag or mountain and aims to reduce the load on a belayer if the lead climber falls. The lightweight device should also reduce rope drag for the lead climber.

The new device, which will go on sale next August, has been tested by Edelrid athlete and top climber Tommy Caldwell, who described it as “ingenious”.

“I’ve seen many accidents that could have been avoided by using the OHMEGA. After trying it once, you also realize just how easy it is to use," says Caldwell.

“The device itself weighs little more than a standard quickdraw [the name for a piece of climbing equipment]."

How does the Edelrid OHMEGA work?

The OHMEGA, which weighs just 170g, has an integrated Dyneema sling to offer three different braking levels. This is operated by a simple hand movement to suit the weight distribution.

An integrated pulley keeps the friction generated at the first bolt, or point of climbing protection, so users won’t notice the OHMEGA when climbing or clipping in the rope.

Another advantage is that the belayer should find it easier to belay dynamically and softly.

In the event of a fall, the cam brakes the fall, supporting the belayer. The additional braking effect also balances out any weight differences between climbers. As a result, the belayer won’t be pulled off the ground or into the wall in the event of a big fall.

With falls from a low height, the braking effect of the OHMEGA reduces the risk of both the climbing partners colliding and the climber hitting the ground. The OHMEGA also brakes if the climber falls into the device.

Caldwell added: “I wouldn’t be surprised if the OHMEGA were to become a standard piece of gear for the climbing community.”

• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out
• The best women’s climbing shoes: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures

Outdoor gear is expensive and you want to get it right when you invest in that new tent, sleeping bag or pair of hiking boots. That's why so many outdoor brands have generous exchange policies. Pay just $30 for a lifetime membership at REI for example and you can return almost any item within a year of purchase for a refund or replacement. The Washington-based brand, however, has started rolling back that offer after discovering some customers have committed what it calls "past abuse" of the policy.

In an October 30 email published by Denver's 9News, REI informs customer Lindsay Powell that she will no longer be allowed to exchange or return items at the store as of November 6, despite being a member. The article reports that Powell is one of "a very small subset of members" totaling less than 0.02% of the brand's 24 million subscribers "who demonstrated a clear abuse" of the company's return policy.

"When we reviewed your account, we found that the number and frequency of returns you have made far exceeds what we typically see from members. While we stand behind the gear we sell and recognize we don't always get it right, we noticed that this was an established pattern rather an isolated event," writes the brand.

In the article, Powell says that since 2014, she has returned about $3,100 worth of merchandise out of nearly $11,000 spent at the outlet, or more than 30 percent of her total purchases. This, she explains, is largely due to her having unusually small feet which makes it hard to find the right fit.

REI's return policy covers most items, with the exception of dirty gear, damaged caused by ordinary wear-and-tear, ReSupply products and final sale items. Products including activity monitors, GPS watches, bike trainers, emergency-communication devices and cameras have a shorter 90-day return period. However, there is no official limit provided on REI's website as to how much or how frequently a customer can make returns or exchanges or what constitutes abuse. The company has declined to elaborate on its decision-making process in this case.

REI isn't the only major retailer to tighten the screws on returns and exchanges ahead of the busy festive shopping period. In September, Target updated its return policy to deny customers "suspected of fraud or abuse" while Amazon added processing fees in June for customers with high return rates.

If you're shopping for outdoor gear and want to avoid being flagged as a "serial returner," shopping in-store where you can try on clothes and shoes and talk to knowledgeable staff may be better than browsing online. We also have several useful guides such as how to fit hiking boots, how to choose a tent and how to choose a sleeping bag to help you shop thoughtfully for those higher-priced items.

• Black Friday camping deals 2024: what to expect and sales running right now

Choosing the best climbing shoes isn't a decision you want to rush. There's never been such an array of choice, with styles to suit every kind of climber. Whether you're looking for something comfortable for long sessions in the gym, eyeing up your first outdoor sport climb, aiming to progress into multi-pitch trad, or you're hoping to finally send a particularly challenging boulder problem, there's a shoe that's ideally suited to your ambitions – the challenge is finding it.

Climbing shoes are unique in the world of outdoor footwear, as unlike a hiking boot or even an approach shoe, they're not designed to walk in. Instead, climbing shoes are specifically designed to fit snugly, closely matching the shape of the foot. Rather than mud gripping lugs, the outsole is flat and features sticky rubber designed to grip the smallest rock features.

We're here to provide the beta on some of the world's best climbing shoes in 2026. From comfortable classics like La Sportiva's Mythos, to aggressive, high performing shoes like Scarpa's Instinct Lace, whatever your ambitions, we've got you covered here.

The quick list

This is the quick list, a brief overview of the best climbing shoes available today. To delve deeper into each shoe, see our more detailed write ups further down the guide.

The best climbing shoes 2026

The best climbing shoe overall

When wearing the Scarpa Instinct Lace, "there's no excuse for anything other than precise foot placement", according to our climbing expert Jessie Leong. She rates the Instinct extremely highly, recommending it for technical sport climbing adventures, as well as projects featuring extremely steep ground or overhangs.

The lacing system provides a very precise fit, providing oodles of confidence on what would otherwise be intimidating terrain. Jessie said that she was able to "get purchase on holds I wouldn't normally trust", thanks to the aggressive last. The only drawback is that they tend to get tight in hot weather as your feet start to expand – though this is to be expected for an aggressive shoe like this.

Read our full Scarpa Instinct Lace review

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The best climbing shoe for small holds

Another climbing shoe that got the 5-star seal of approval from expert tester Jessie Leong, the Tenaya Masai is a shoe with a neutral footbed that can nevertheless hold its own on everything from easier multi-pitch trad to boulder problems. Jessie asserts that it's "a go-to lace up climbing shoe for vertical or slightly overhanging routes".

The Masai has a strong reputation among trad climbers, who value its stiffness. It provides purchase on tiny holds, is sensitive when edging and the Vibram XS Grip rubber provides sticky traction. Despite all this, they're comfortable enough to wear during longer adventures, though, like the Scarpa Instinct, they can get a little tight towards the end of a long summer day on the crag.

Read our full Tenaya Masai review

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The best climbing shoe for women

This low volume (hence the LV in the name) iteration of the popular Ra shoe blends high-performance precision with flexibility and comfort. It provides sensitivity, perfect for climbers who want to feel every nuance of the rock beneath their feet.

Our expert tester Jessie Leong was initially unsure about the use of Velcro instead of laces. However, she says that her "expectations were completely exceeded by the technical performance". Not only this, she found that they were a highly practical and versatile pair that were quick to put on and take off. This all adds up to a shoe that's great for newbies and crag veterans alike, providing solid performance and comfort on everything from boulder problems to multi-pitch climbs.

Read our full Tenaya Women's Ra LV review

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The best climbing shoe for precision

Our expert tester Jessie Leong was very impressed with these very capable climbing shoes, saying that they're a good option for "anyone looking for versatility and precision". They're particularly well suited to routes on steep limestone, though it'll comfortably take on any form of climbing. There's also solid foot protection thanks to the generous rubber rand.

There's no Vibram in the outsole here – instead they make use of Unparallel's proprietary rubber, a firm favorite among the vertically inclined. Performance when edging or smearing is excellent, perfect for bouldering or for technical sport climbing routes. Jessie recommends going a size down for comfort and another half down for a more performance-orientated, technical fit.

Read our full Unparallel Up Lace Climbing Shoe review

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The best climbing shoe for comfort

"I've been wearing the Mythos for years and it's never let me down," says our expert tester Alex Foxfield. The big draw to these shoes, which have been around the block more than most, is their almost unrivalled comfort, making them a great fit for multi-pitch routes. Their secret is the soft suede upper, which expands along with your feet on longer days.

Despite being a neutral shoe, they're noticeably narrow at the front, which is great for jamming into cracks. They're not perfect for bouldering or technical sport routes, as their edging isn't great. However, if you want to take on longer routes in relative comfort, these are a great shout.

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The best neutral climbing shoe

An update of the classic Five Ten Pinks, the attractive Five Ten NIADs feel familiar to those that are already advocates of the much-loved model. Five Ten have managed to shave some of the weight off the Pinks, while still retaining the technical features that made them such a trusted friend on the crags. Our expert tester Jessie Leong found that she "had the confidence to trust them on a variety of rock surfaces thanks to the Stealth C4 rubber outsole, which works really well on hot rock".

They're a little stiff to begin with, but once broken in, they provide great all-round performance. Strong levels of all-day comfort and the lacing are the standout features, making them a good shout for multi-pitch routes. Fit wise, they're slightly narrow, so large-heeled climbers may want to look elsewhere.

Read our full Five Ten NIAD Lace review

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The best climbing shoe for indoor competitions

Championed as a shoe for indoor competition climbers, the La Sportiva Solution Comp is designed to provide maximum performance. Features like a rubber toe cap for toe hooks on overhangs and a tapered heel for heel hooks hint at the kind of technical difficulty these shoes have been created for.

Our tester Jessie Leong admits that she's neither an indoor wad, nor a passionate boulderer, though she noticed that "the way I climbed was dictated by the form and fit of these shoes". They allowed her to take on tricky footwork manoeuvres, such as scumming and toe hooking, with confidence. She's also keen to point out that these aren't an all-day comfort shoe due to their aggressive, performance-orientated design. This means they're not a good option for beginners or those looking for a multi-purpose climbing shoe. However, for indoor competitions or technical boulder projects, these are a solid option.

Read our full La Sportiva Solution Comp review

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The best climbing shoe for multi-pitch routes

Comfort is key on multi-pitch routes and with cushioned ankle support, a stiff midsole and a high cut collar, the retro-feeling Ballet from Boreal is ideal. The lace closure provides a precise fit, while there's protection at both the toe and ankle. So, if you're into trad or big wall climbing, these are an option worth exploring. Crack climbers will also value the level of reinforcement here.

All this protection and their higher cut means that the Ballets weigh more than most, so they're not ideally suited to shorter, technical routes. Our expert tester Jessie Leong points out that they can "feel a bit baggy at the front for those who prefer a narrower, more precise fit". One for long days on the crag then, rather than for snatched hours attempting difficult moves at the boulder.

Read our full Boreal Ballet review

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The best climbing shoe for beginners

Affordable and comfortable, the flat-lasted Black Diamond Momentum is perfect for beginners. Comfort is the number one priority here, rather than performance on tiny holds and technical boulder problems. A soft midsole and a breathable upper join forces with the neutral profile to create a very accommodating shoe. Velcro-strap closure adds to their fuss-free nature.

Our tester Jessie Leong found that, while the soft-flex midsole provided comfort, it didn't inspire confidence or aid footwork on the crag as well as other shoes in this guide. However, she had plenty of positives to say too, asserting that it's "a product I'll be recommending to friends who are starting out, thanks to their combination of comfort and decent entry-level performance".

Read our full Black Diamond Momentum review

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How we test the best climbing shoes

Our expert reviewers test climbing shoes on the kind of crags and climbing disciplines they were intended for, judging grip, precision, comfort, performance, durability and value for money to arrive at the final judgements.

Meet the testers

The best climbing shoes comparison table

How to choose the best climbing shoe

Choosing the best climbing shoes involves a number of considerations. A major one, of course, will be what you’re going to be using them for – climbing indoors, or sport climbing, trad climbing and bouldering or a combination – but personal preference in terms of material, designs and your climbing style will determine whether a shoe feels right for you.

Climbing shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment in your crag pack. More so than most other kinds of sport shoe, they need to fit perfectly – finding the best climbing shoe for your feet can mean looking at both gender-specific shoes (women's tend to be narrower and lower in volume) and unisex versions in order to fine tune the fit.

Oh, and if you just starting your climbing journey and you come across some references here that make you go, “Huh?” feel free to browse our articles on rock climbing terms and rock climbing for beginners.

Do climbing shoes need to be uncomfortable?

Ultimately, climbing shoes don't need to be uncomfortable – this is a bit of a myth. Wearing the best climbing shoes shouldn’t make your feet painful or distract your focus from the climbing – instead you should be able to trust your footwork to commit on steeper, smaller holds.

The tight fitting nature of rock climbing shoes means that they're never going to be the most comfortable pair of shoes you own but they shouldn't be painfully uncomfortable either. If you're an experienced climber, you may want to consider the option of approach shoes for easier routes, which provide some of the performance of climbing shoes along with the comfort of hiking shoes.

Versatility

Ask yourself how much you would like your climbing shoes to do. Will they need to be versatile enough to use across a range of activities, from day-to-day wear, practising climbing at your local wall, to long multi-pitch routes, or technical, precise sport climbing?

For multi-purpose climbing shoes, look for neutral or moderate shoes, which feature less downturned profiles and generally offer greater comfort. For the more technical routes, a performance-orientated, aggressive climbing shoe with a downturned profile for precision will fit the bill.

Support & rigidity

Different climbing shoes will provide a range of rigidity across the foot, from bespoke technical arch support that literally hold the foot in place, to a rigid midsole to support your calves and prevent them from becoming tired on longer, steeper routes.

Conversely, softer soles can allow for greater sensitivity on slabs. Choosing a climbing shoe that has a good rubber sole, such as Vibram XS Grip, will determine the amount of grip and power transference you get on smaller holds, thus inspiring greater confidence from the shoe. If you’re looking to climb on steeper headwalls, a stiffer sole might suit you best, while people who are aiming for shoes that allow them to pad up delicate rockfaces may prefer a softer sole.

Looks

Does the shoe have a neutral profile, or a slight downturn? A downturn will suit boulderers or those wanting steeper sport climbing routes, while a neutral shoe that’s less aggressive and not too tight will be better suited for those who want more of an all-rounder trad/sport and bouldering shoe.

Velcro or laces?

Some climbers may prefer the convenience of velcro, which enables you to take shoes on and off super quickly; this is especially handy for making those tiny micro-adjustments for a better fit when the routes become more technical. Others prefer lacing, which supplies a more secure and evenly-distributed fit.

Sizing

The best climbing shoes can vary widely, and those who want more sensitivity may find that they need to drop down to a size, or half a size than their trainer size. Be careful, though, because brands differ. For instance, Tenaya and La Sportiva sizing came up much smaller, while Black Diamond and Boreal came up larger during the test. Try before you buy if possible.

Protection vs weight

If you’re intending on doing a lot of climbing that involves cracks and toe torques, or balancing on tiny edges, then good toe protection and a supportive midsole both contribute to the shoe’s rigidity; it’s worth paying a weight penalty to have these features. Climbing shoes can vary in weight, and if you’re looking at all-day comfort, a heavier climbing shoe may be more robust and protect your feet more, while a lighter shoe will be less noticeable.

Breathability 

The ability to keep your feet dry is good, so a breathable material is a massive bonus in helping towards all-day comfort. Velcro (as opposed to laces) can also help with encouraging feet to vent in-between climbs.

What to do with your old climbing shoes

Climbing shoes are tricky to recycle due to the combination of different materials glued together, and aren't as widely accepted as running shoes in recycling programs. La Sportiva is the exception. In 2022 the company launched a shoe recycling scheme in the UK, with recycling points in 25 locations including stores and climbing walls to collect old footwear.

If you're in the US and have a lot of footwear of different types to dispose of, you can order a Zero Waste box from Terracycle, which includes a postage label to return it. It's not cheap, but the price would be reasonable if several people chip in, so you could arrange a drive with a climbing club.

Organizing specialist equipment before a big mountain mission is a pain if you don’t own it already. Do you shell out on something that is on the kit list but you might never use again? But what if it’s not quite right for the task, or for you? Perhaps you put pressure on a friendship by asking to borrow a mate’s spenny down jacket or four-season sleeping bag. Will they still speak to you when you return it complete with coffee stain?

Getting outdoors requires a lot of kit, and how much you own comes down to how much money you have, how much space you have to store it, and how easy it is to cart it all around with you.

Renting outdoor gear is a no-brainer really. After all, haven’t we been doing this with skis and ski boots for decades? The new ‘rent, adventure, return’ scheme from Trekkit – an outdoor retailer specializing in top brands, such as Rab, Fjällräven, Mountain Equipment and Osprey – means you can try out specialist equipment at a fraction of the list price.

As long as you're in the UK, you’ll be able to access the service online, and have your request shipped to anywhere in the country. Trekkit has also linked up with a logistics team to get the item to you on time, and an aftercare business, which will make sure hire products are kept in top nick and performing as well as new.

The price you can expect to pay is between 15 and 20% of the list price. And your gear will be delivered with a prepaid label to return it at the end of the hire period. If you loved it and want to keep it, Trekkit will offer the chance for you to purchase the item (or the same item from stock) for 30% off the list price.

Trekitt’s managing director, Dave Cassidy, reckons it will “help sustainable manufacturing practices and contribute to a more circular economy” while also giving “opportunity to introduce more new users to the outdoors”. And we're inclined to agree.

How to rent outdoor gear

There are tons of benefits to renting your outdoor gear, including reducing the impact on the environment of manufactured goods, and saving money not shelling out on something that may spend most of its life gathering dust in your loft. Here's how to go about it.

Plan your trip

Think about the activities you're going to do and the weather and conditions you'll encounter. What kit would make the trip more enjoyable and more comfortable?

Arrange delivery

Organize for delivery to be shipped to your home before you go, or have it delivered to your destination, which saves time and effort carting it with you.

Take care of your gear

Normal wear and tear is expected when it comes to hire gear, and you won't be charged for retuning something that doesn't look squeaky clean any more. However, avoid being reckless with it or you'll be penalized.

Return it

At the end of your trip, pack the items and send back using the prepaid label. It's a good idea to take photos of the condition of the gear at the start and end of the hire period your own record and peace of mind.

• Are you done with an item of outdoor gear? Here's where you can donate, recycle, return or repair sports clothing and gear
• Thinking of investing? Read why outdoor gear is so expensive

Using climbing as their inspiration, the designers at outdoor brand Rab have come up with a new 'lifestyle' pack. The Adrift pack series is aimed at people who want to carry their everyday kit with them – think laptop, phone, water bottle, sports clothing, etc – in a backpack that is stylishly practical.

Rab state that the Adrift packs have been "designed to adapt to the varied demands of an active lifestyle and survive the rigors of everyday adventure, from post-work bouldering sessions to commutes on two wheels".

It’s likely to be the sort of pack that will appeal to people who are already sporty and already know about the benefits of durable nylon fabric, comfortable back systems and supportive straps.

Certainly, the Adrift packs, which are sold in 24-litre and 30-litre sizes, would not look out of place in the summer hills and mountains, or at a crag.

They offer functional details, such as 210D nylon ripstop fabric and a close-fitting ContourTM back system that is constructed to “contour with the shape of the spine”. Other features that most outdoors enthusiasts will recognise include a (removable) forward-pull hipbelt for easy adjustment, adjustable sternum strap and shoulder straps, two side mesh pockets for bottle storage, an internal zipped mesh security pocket with key clip and external lashing points.

The lifestyle components include a workspace compartment with padded laptop sleeve, an internal tablet sleeve with additional organization, zipped top pocket for quick access storage and bike light attachment loop for cycling commutes.

Rab, which is owned by Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd, has also started listing what they call Material Facts, which aims to unravel the complexities of sustainability in the manufacture of outdoor products. There are many accusations of greenwashing across the outdoors industry and Rab claim their initiative is a more honest way forward. So the Rab Adrift 24 is shown as having a total recycled content of 29%.

The Rab Adrift 24l is priced at £80, while the Rab Adrift 30l costs £90. And this is where some buyers might question the hybrid nature of the Adrift packs. We've previously pondered whether expensive Rab gear is worth the money and the Adrift lifestyle packs are not cheap.

Will many climbers be looking for a pack that does both – office and climbing – and potentiality buy a pack that could be an overall compromise on the useful features for their actual sport? The jury’s out for for now...

• The best hiking packs tested

Bringing back an 'old favourite', while giving the product a modern revamp is not always an easy thing to do. This is what Patagonia faced with the reintroduction of the M10, a waterproof and breathable jacket that was much-loved by climbers but discontinued six years ago.

The M10 is now available with a half zip (M10 Anorak) and full zip (M10 Storm) at similar price points.

The brand’s designers knew that alpine climbers are very demanding when it comes to what they wear. They have specific needs and they do not welcome unnecessary weight and fussy features.

The jacket also needs to offer superb waterproofing and breathability for a sport that can play out in very harsh weather. Freedom of movement is also crucial because climbers stretch and move a lot when ascending rock and ice.

In addition, the brand was aware of how much the climbing community liked the original M10. Field-testing coordinator at Patagonia, Kelly Cordes, said: “It was so clear what everyone wanted from the M10, and that’s why they all liked it in the first place. It’s everything you need and no extra bullsh*t. It’s a Ferrari, a total race car.”

But the M10 stopped being made in 2018 and the gap of six years had seen some innovations in the outdoor clothing industry. Patagonia also wanted to ensure the new M10 collection of jackets and pants used more environmentally-friendly methods during production.

Kelly said: "Bringing back the M10, we knew we could push the materials further. The 2024 M10 Storm styles use an even lighter-weight version of the exceptionally weatherproof, breathable 3-layer fabric technology first used in our Dual Aspect shells in 2021, and made without intentionally applied PFCs/PFAS.”

Interestingly, the M10 benefits from technology lent from then motor manufacturing industry when making car batteries. This has to do with the development of a nanoporous membrane that’s made mechanically, stretching the material to get uniform, nano-sized holes.

The M10 uses an Xpore® nanoporous membrane that Patagonia says has “consistently sized pores that keep rain and snow out but still let sweat and heat escape, resulting in a highly waterproof/breathable material made without harsh chemicals”.

When updating the rangle, Patagonia still faced the issue of the need for “stretch”. One of the complaints of the previous M10 jackets was that the hem moved upwards when climbers stretched up with their arms. The jacket needed to fit with a climbing harness as well.

So, the new M10 jackets have a redesigned underarm gusset to provide better mobility than the original M10. It’s claimed it has “nearly zero hem lift”. This is a brave claim and one that will no doubt be tested and scrutinised by climbers in due course.

Other new features in the wider Patagonia M10 collection include zipper-free baselayer access on the M10 Storm Bibs for women and a 4-point gusset on the M10 Storm Pants for men.

Across the collection, including the M10 Anorak ($399 / £400), M10 Storm Jacket for men and women (both $379 / £360), M10 Storm pants for men ($279 / £270) and M10 Storm Bibs for women ($399 / £380) is a very quiet fabric – climbers demand no-noise fabrics – and a hood that works well with or without a helmet.

Features are kept to a minimum so there are no pit zips and just two pockets, located at chest height.

Given the popularity of Patagonia’s M10 jacket a decade ago you might imagine that reintroducing it in 2024 is a no-brainer, but it faces stiff competition from good quality competitors in the climbing apparel arena, such as Mammut, Mountain Equipment and Arc’teryx.

Patagonia, although genuinely acclaimed for sustainability in an industry that is often accused of greenwashing, do not sell cheap products and this means each item will be a hefty investment for climbers. Look out for a review soon...

There are many mysteries in life, including why we end up with so many odd socks during the laundry process, why does bread toast perfectly the first time and then burn the next time – and why do ropes get so easily tangled? For climbers, the quest to keep ropes tangle-free is essential for safety and also necessary for saving time.

A tangled rope could cause a major problem if you are belaying a climber. Any knot or tangle in the rope might prevent you from feeding out the rope properly to the lead climber, or stop an effective arresting of a fall if your climbing partner comes off the rock face or indoor climbing wall.

A tangled rope is also an issue at the start of a climbing session because it can waste valuable time as you try to untangle and uncoil it.

We take a look at why climbing ropes get tangled – and how to avoid this frustration.

The first rope uncoil

Many people new to climbing do not realise that factory coiling during the manufacture process can put a twist in the rope. This is especially true of climbing ropes in past decades.

Traditional climbing ropes are wound up and packaged as a coil. Then, if you are not careful, when you first go to uncoil the rope and use it, it can too easily turn into a tangled mess. 

Pulling the rope straight from the packaging is the worst thing you can do.

Instead, when you first use a new climbing rope you should unwind it exactly the same way that was wound up. The way to do this is to place the rope over your forearms and unwind it.

You should aim to “flake” a rope several times, which means running the rope through your hands, end to end, and back again a few times to ensure any manufacture twists and tension are removed from the length of rope. 

Thankfully, in more recent times, many more manufacturers are supplying their ropes packaged and ready for use. This is also called a 'ready to climb' rope.

These ropes can be taken out of the pack and placed straight in a rope bag and used. These ropes should not be unwound in the same way as traditionally wound ropes because the reverse happens and the unwinding will cause twists and tangles in the rope.

You can check on the packaging to see if it is a 'ready to climb' rope, or not.

Rope tangles while in use

Each time you use a rope, it’s a good idea to flake it out. Running the rope through your hands from one end to the other will ensure it is tangle free.

However, the rope can become tangled while in usen especially when using directional anchors and belay devices.

Directional anchors are the pieces of gear used by climbers when outdoors on rock, such as bolts, cams and nuts. The gear is what climbers use for keeping rope in place and prevent a fall. It might be that a directional anchor is used for top-roping, traversing or rapelling (when using a rope to descend from a route).

Twists in the rope can occur if a rope is pulled through a top rope directional anchor, or a belay chain, that is not properly aligned and this is even more likely when the rope is under tension. 

Basically, the more directional changes and the more friction on the rope, the greater than chance of twists and subsequent tangles. 

When using anchors and a rope during climbing you should try to make sure the axes of the anchors are perpendicularly aligned with the central axis of the rope or the anchors have as much play as possible and can realign themselves.

The crossing of ropes on top-rope directional anchors should also be avoided.

Rope tangles in belay devices

Issues with rope twists and tangles can call occur when using a belay device. This can happen during belaying of a  partner or when rappelling. 

The rope can be subjected to friction due to being directed through the belay device and anchors and as well as against the rock face. 

The greater the friction the higher the chance of twists in the rope, which can lead to tangling. 

It’s a good idea to use a modern style of belay device for reducing rope friction.

A warning about the Munter hitch

A Munter hitch, also called an Italian hitch, is a method that allows climbers to belay safely without a belay device.

But, be warned, because rappelling a rope with a Munter hitch will often lead to bad twists in the rope and ultimately may cause tangling.

Recoiling a rope to prevent tangles 

When recoiling your rope after use, make sure you are careful about the coiling process. There are plenty of useful YouTube instruction films on how to coil a climbing rope, including this one by the outdoor apparel brand Mammut. You can watch the whole video below.https://youtube.com/shorts/o1T385-ND0w?feature=shared

Once the rope is recoiled, you should make sure you store it somewhere that will not tamper with the coils. A rope bag is the best place. 

Rope storage issues

Rather than simply coiling a rope, where each coil is a straightforward revolution, it’s better to use the lap coil method, where the rope is picked up alternately in loops twisted to the left and right.

By using a left to right flow of coils, the rope remains as neutral as possible and this reduces the chances of it becoming tense, twisted and tangled.  

Ideally, you should store your climbing rope in a rope bag.

Tangles in an open rope

When in use, there is a potential for climbing ropes to become tangled. The end of a rope, below where the belaying climber stands can end up in a tangled mess.

Rope management is really important and this is something that is easily learned by watching more experienced climbers.

A good climber will flake out their rope before use and then lay it in loose coils close to where the climb will take place, before making use of the rope for the climb.

Recently, I traveled to the Swiss Alps with the outdoor brand Columbia to test out their newest technology. Omni-Heat Arctic is an insulating technology that is inspired by how a polar bear’s fur works to keep it warm in frigid arctic conditions. Though polar bears appear white, they actually have heat-absorbing black skin and two layers of translucent fur that prevent almost all heat loss. 

Using a process called biomimicry – the design of structures and systems that are modeled on living organisms – Columbia developed the new technology and incorporated it into two garments – the Arctic Crest Down Jacket and Arctic Crest Sherpa Technical Fleece – that absorbs the sun’s rays while conventional insulation helps trap it there, in addition to your own body-generated heat.

Though Columbia’s technology is new, biomimicry isn’t. As explained in Biomimetics and the design of outdoor clothing, the term was coined by Otto Schmitt in the 1930s to describe an electronic feedback circuit he designed that was inspired by neural networks, but long before that, humans were taking cues from nature. Over the decades, birds have inspired aviation, the fins of humpback whales have improved the efficiency of wind turbines and gecko’s feet have prompted the development of non-toxic adhesives.  

Biomimicry has also played a big role in the development of outdoor gear, which makes a lot of sense. Why wouldn't we look to nature to help us better cope with whatever it hurls at us on the mountain? 

From creating synthetic fibers that mimic duck down in our down jackets to hiking shoes that help us grip to steep trails like the hooves of a mountain goat, we’ve borrowed a lot from the natural world. Here are just six ways that biomimicry has transformed outdoor gear: 

1. Fleece

Biomimicry is a fancy-sounding word, but it shows up in an everyday item you almost certainly have in your closet – the humble fleece jacket.

We probably all know about the magical powers of sheep’s wool as one of nature’s great breathable insulators. It wicks moisture away from your skin when you break a sweat clambering up a steep slope and repels odors from said sweat, but it’s also limited in supply and labor-intensive to harvest.

So back in 1979, a Massachusetts-based company named Polartec decided to replicate its properties in a synthetic version and came up with what we know today as fleece, according to a 2011 article published in the New York Times.

This synthetic pile fabric, named for a sheep's natural coat, was intended to mimic wool’s insulating properties but be tougher and more lightweight, making it ideal for rugged adventures. Though early fleece jackets did actually look quite a bit like wool, they’ve become more stylish and performance-oriented and you can head out into the cold without the bulk in jackets like the Berghaus Carnot Hooded Jacket and stay cozy in harsh weather without breaking the bank.

2. Velcro

Have you ever gone hiking with your dog and spent half an hour when you got home pulling sticky burrs out of its fur? These pesky seeds will stick to your canine companion and your hiking pants so they can hitchhike to new soils, but while most of us just find them a bit annoying, Swiss engineer and inventor George de Mestral used them to come up with one of biomimicry’s most ubiquitous technologies.

On a walk with his dog, de Mestral recognized the potential of the hundreds of tiny hooks on the burrs that caused them to “fasten” to passing animals. He spent years developing a method of mimicking this process and in 1955, he patented the hook and loop technology, made using tiny polyamide hooks and loops, that you almost certainly know as the brand name Velcro. 

That’s right, every time you cinch the sleeves on your waterproof jacket to keep out the driving rain or tighten your ski gloves against the snow, you’re using technology inspired by a common, and rather annoying, plant.

3. Nylon 

When you pull on a pair of running tights like the Arc'teryx Essent High Rise Leggings, you almost certainly want them to feel silky against your skin, and that’s exactly what American chemist Wallace Hume Carothers intended when he developed nylon on behalf of DuPont in the 1930s.

Silk has been a desirable textile across the globe for thousands of years, originating in China sometime before the middle of the 3rd millennium BCE. It’s long been a symbol of wealth and beauty, but it’s expensive, labor-intensive to produce and most importantly a cruel practice that entails boiling silkworm cocoons.

Enter nylon, which was designed to have a similar shimmery look and feel to silk but be tougher and was first used to make stockings at a lower cost during wartime. Fast forward nearly 100 years and nylon is everywhere in your outdoor gear – though you’ll often see it on the label as polyamide – from running tops to your best camping tent, where a ripstop version that’s less silky and more durable is used to hold off the elements.

4. DWR treatments

Spending time outdoors requires building your defenses against the weather. When you get soaked through on a hike, your clothes become heavy and burdensome and you get cold quickly, which can become dangerous. Fortunately, we’ve got brilliant, lightweight waterproof jackets and rain pants these days to keep us dry (and therefore warm) on the trail,  made with technologies such as a DWR treatment, which is the stuff that makes the water bead on the surface of your clothes instead of soaking it.

Traditionally, these treatments have been composed of harmful chemicals, known as PFCs, but the inspiration for them came an organic organism – the lotus flower. The leaves of lotus flowers are naturally hydrophobic, with tiny bumps coated in wax that repel water and dirt, and a German scientist named Wilhelm Barthlott started to study how to replicate this in technology in the 1970s. His work led to a number of innovations including dirt-repellent paint, while DWR for waterproof clothing can also be traced to these observations.

Fortunately, most of us who love the outdoors want to enjoy nature without damaging it, and there’s been a big push recently to replace harmful DWRs with non-toxic versions such as plasma-based treatments, so you can shake off the wet and dirt like a lotus flower. If you're in the market for a new jacket and want a non-toxic DWR, Fjällräven launched several new PFC-free waterproofs last year.

5. Snowshoes

Snowshoes are one of the earliest pieces of outdoor gear, and while modern day adventurers love floating across deep powder in a pair of the best snowshoes on a winter’s day just for fun, 6,000 years ago in Central Asia they basically amounted to public transport devices.

As the Guardian explains in an article on the history of snowshoes, these traction devices may be the original example of biomimicry, inspired by animals with larger feet or paws that spread their weight out and allow them to walk across the snow without sinking in – think snowshoe hares, bears and ptarmigans.

Archeological evidence shows that original snowshoes were made using animal materials, such as bearskin and deerhide, but these days styles like the Tubbs Flex ALP are fully vegan-friendly, made with lightweight carbon steel and Torsion Deck plastic so you pad through the snow without harming any bears in the process.

6. Wetsuits

Sharks get a bad rap, but if it weren’t for these marine predators, there would be a lot of cold wild swimmers and surfers out there in the water. Though it glides smoothly through the sea, the skin of a shark is actually rough and that’s because it’s covered in tiny scales called denticles which the Smithsonian explains lets them move through the water more quickly and quietly.

Perhaps it’s no surprise then, that wetsuits designed for water sports like this Osprey Triathlon suit have tried to copy this effect, replicating the texture of actual shark skin to reduce water resistance and increase hydrodynamics.

There’s no clinical research to prove that this technology works for humans the way it does for sharks, but after the iconic swimsuit brand Speedo implemented this idea into their FastSkin swimwear line, 108 world records were set in a single year. Consequently, it was banned by the International Swimming Federation because swimmers were deemed to have an unfair advantage, but that’s a good indication it might just work for you next time you’re taking the plunge.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

There are definitely times when you are travelling that it would be useful to have a way of protecting items from thieves. Afterall it’s not always possible – or easy – to safeguard luggage and bags and nor does every destination have left luggage lockers. 

So what can you do to protect your personal stuff? Travel design company Matador reckons its new product, the BetaLock™, is the ideal solution and a way to secure bags from theft. 

It’s not a unique gadget as there are other similar items on the market that allow you to lock travel bags, but  the design of the BetaLock is a bit different.

The BetaLock looks like a climbing carabiner and its credentials certainly sound good: it’s lightweight, made from forged aircraft-grade aluminium and TSA-compliant  (that means the lock is recognized by the Transportation Security Administration).

The BetaLock can be used to secure bags and all kinds of other items, such as tent zippers, bicycle bags, a climbing helmet etc, against theft and also provides bag identification.

You could use the BetaLock as a general carabiner, too, such as to hang up a backpack while travelling or to link together different items. 

The gadget features a spring gate for quick attachment and detachment, plus a keyed dead-bolt locking gate for security and two keys. 

Obviously, a determined thief will be able to get around the security system by cutting fabric or straps next to the BetaLock but it’s the deterrent aspect that many travellers like. The belief is that if there are two bags, one with a locking system attached and one without, then the thief is more likely to go for the easy steal. 

If this gadget is something you think has been missing form your life, you can check out Matador products at WildBounds. The BetaLock has a list price of £28.45 (UK) / €25.42 (EU) and is sold in a range of colors.

• The best camping tents: for superb backcountry adventures
• The best hiking backpacks: from the lightest daypacks to sturdy alpine haulers

With the penultimate leg of the IFSC climbing world cup kicking off in Prague, men’s and women’s Olympic champions Toby Roberts and Janja Garnbret are once again going for glory wearing the same shoes.  

Previously considered an unconventional choice, the Adidas Five Ten Hiangle Pro shot to stardom after they helped both Roberts and Garnbret to historic golds in Paris. 

Well suited to experienced climbers, the Hiangle Pro features an extremely secure heel, locking users in for a steady climb. What’s more, its aggressive shape and sticky rubber outer offer plenty of grip useful for steep climbing and short, sharp boulder problems. 

Both Roberts and Garnbret will be using the Hiangle Pros to boulder in the crucial penultimate leg of the IFSC world cup, which runs from September 20 to 22, and will play a major hand in deciding this year's climbing world champions. 

Held each year across the globe, the world cup is split over nine legs, pitting the world’s best climbers against each other in speed climbing, lead climbing and bouldering. 

With two legs to go, double Olympic champion Garnbret is topping the leaderboard, out in front in the women’s bouldering and lead competitions. 

Also donning the Hiangle Pros, teenage sensation Toby Roberts is in pole position for men’s lead climbing, while Japan’s Sorato Anraku tops the men’s bouldering.

All the action from Prague can be watched live, free of charge on the IFSC YouTube channel, alongside highlights and in-depth coverage of the competition so far.

• The best women's climbing shoes 2024 for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures
• How to choose climbing shoes expert advice on what to consider

When it comes to choosing climbing shoes, it’s not a decision you want to get wrong. A well-chosen shoe is your ally on the wall – a protective and grippy extension of your own foot that enables you to push up the grades with a smile. An ill-considered choice could be woefully uncomfortable, unsuited to the kind of climbing you’re doing and detract from the overall experience.

With this in mind, we asked one of our climbing and mountaineering experts to reveal how to choose climbing shoes that’ll match your ambitions and climbing style.

How to choose climbing shoes

When choosing climbing shoes, follow these steps:

Consider whether climbing shoes are what you need: it may be that approach shoes would be better suited to your aspirations.

Consider the type of climbing shoes you need: neutral, moderate or aggressive shoes each have different qualities.

Get closure: choose between versatile lace-ups, convenient straps or low profile slip-ons, again based on the kind of climbing you intend to do most.

Size down to get the right fit: it’s likely your climbing shoes will be a smaller size than your other footwear, as you’re looking for a tight fit.

Try at least a few different pairs: every foot is different and climbing shoes come in different shapes to match – try at least a few to find your best fit.

Comfort is key: At the end of the day comfort is the be all and end all. You won’t want to climb in shoes that are painfully uncomfortable.

Remember, your shoes should be comfortable yet tight fitting, your toes should be touching the end (ideally with a slight curl), your heel should also fit snugly and the type of climbing shoe should match the kind of climbing you’ll be doing. You should be able to stand on your toes without the heel being uncomfortable against your Achilles tendon.

Meet the expert

What is a climbing shoe?

A climbing shoe is a type of footwear designed specifically for rock or indoor climbing. They’re intended to fit snugly, matching the shape of the foot, and feature flat, sticky rubber outsoles that provide maximum traction on the wall. Unlike hiking shoes or running shoes, they’re not designed to be comfortable to walk in.

Consider whether climbing shoes are what you need

If you’re racking up a fortune in hire costs at your local bouldering wall, you need climbing shoes. If you're into sport climbing, you need climbing shoes. If you’re looking to seriously push up through the trad grades, you need climbing shoes.

If you’re more of a scrambler or mountaineer looking to add easier climbs into the experience, you’ll probably be more comfortable in a pair of approach shoes. These are designed as a halfway house between hiking shoes and climbing shoes and are suitable for less technical climbs. Some big wall climbers even use them, especially if there’s a lot of aid climbing involved.

Work out what type of climbing shoe you need

There are broadly three types of modern climbing shoe: neutral, moderate and aggressive. 

Neutral climbing shoes: These feature a flat profile and are much more comfortable than more aggressive climbing shoes on long-multi-pitch climbs.

Moderate climbing shoes: These have a moderately downturned profile and a thinner sole than neutral shoes. Not quite as comfortable on long routes, they are, nevertheless, a good all-rounder that can be used on pretty much all kinds of climbs.

Aggressive climbing shoes: These have an aggressively downturned profile and a thin sole, which gives them power, precision and sensitivity on difficult routes. They're the least comfortable and the least durable too, but also the highest performing.

The best type of shoes for you will depend on the style and difficulty of the climbing you intend to take on and the length of time you’ll be wearing the shoe.

For example, if you’re looking to do crack climbing, a neutral shoe with a stiffer sole will allow you to effectively jam your foot into cracks. Other reasons you might want a neutral shoe is that they’re more comfortable for extended wear. So, if you’re mostly going to be taking on long, multi-pitch routes or spending long days at the gym, neutral shoes are best. The Black Diamond Momentum is a good beginner choice.

Or, if you’re a newcomer to climbing or haven’t discovered a niche that you prefer, a moderate shoe may make sense, as it’ll be a good all-rounder.

Whereas you’ll want an aggressive pair if you’re taking on really challenging, single-pitch sport climbing routes that involves precise and tiny toe placements.

Get closure

There are generally three types of closure to choose from: laces, strap and slip-on. Each have their own pros and cons, as well as different situations that they excel in.

The most versatile closure type – and therefore a good choice for beginner climbers – is laces. You can bring everything in tight for precision on the crux and then loosen when your feet start to moan, swell up or when it’s time to shuffle off the crag.

A strap closure usually uses Velcro and is a convenient option if you’re going to be taking your shoes on and off repeatedly during sessions. This makes them popular with gym goers and boulderers.

Slip-on shoes have no fastening, instead employing elastic around the ankle to seal everything in tight. This makes them ideal for wedging into thin cracks, as they have a lower profile than shoes with laces or straps. They also tend to have less rugged soles and midsoles, providing enhanced sensitivity.

Size down to get the right fit

Climbing shoes don’t need to be massively uncomfortable, but they do need to provide a very snug fit, with no dead space between the shoe and the foot, as well as a slight curl at the toes.

I found that I had to size down from my usual shoe size to achieve this fit when I bought my first pair of climbing shoes. In fact, La Sportiva recommend ‘buying a climbing shoe that is 2 sizes smaller than the size used for other types of footwear’. Of course, there’s no one size fits all, so it’s important to test the fit before fully committing to a purchase. If you’re buying from a climbing store, ask an attendant for some assistance. If you’re buying online, make sure there’s a returns option so that you’re not fully committed to the first pair you try.

One other thing to mention when finding the right size is that the volume of your feet changes during the day. As an extreme example, if you’ve ever been on a long-haul flight you’ll know that they can absolutely balloon in size. However, as there’s not much scope for climbing on a 737, you don’t need to consider this amount of bloating. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to try new pairs on after midday, ideally after something like a hike or a run.

Try at least a few different pairs

The foundation of all quality pairs of footwear is the last. The last is basically a foot-shaped mould that footwear manufacturers use to shape their designs around. Just as every foot is slightly different, so too is every last and you’ll find that some simply don’t fit your foot as well as others. With this in mind, try a few different pairs to find a fit that’s right for you. Remember, the shoe should be tight but not painful, without any dead space inside. Your toes should reach the end of the shoe but not be absolutely crammed in like sardines in a tin.

The shape of the last also effects the performance and shape of the shoe. For example, most neutral shoes are straight lasted, which gives them their flatter profile. Asymmetric lasts, usually used in moderate or aggressive shoes, are more performance orientated and provide more power on the inside edge. Meanwhile, a downturned last, again used in moderate and aggressive shoes, curves towards the toes, enabling advanced techniques like toe and heel hooking.

Comfort is key

If you’re just getting into rock climbing, comfort is your number one priority. Don’t let people tell you that climbing shoes should be painfully uncomfortable to enable you to take on challenging routes. The truth is that painful shoes will probably put you off climbing altogether, or you’ll end up having to splash out all over again on a pair that don’t feel like foot torture. In the worst-case scenario, you might end up doing permanent damage to your toes. Comfort is key.

Canadian climbing brand Arc'teryx turned a few heads this bring when they dropped the Kragg shoe, a slip-on that rather resembled a water shoe but was grippy and supportive enough to handle short approaches and comfortable enough to double as a recovery shoe. The heel even collapsed to transform the shoe into a slide, but of course, that was never going to work for cold weather.

Enter the Arc'teryx Insulated Kragg approach shoe, which has extended the upper – now constructed from a more hardwearing ripstop – to a mid-height bootie design. The stretch collar looks similar to that of the currently-trending Hoka Tecton X 3 and helps to keep out debris from the trail as well as ensuring a snug fit.

More importantly, the brand has added breathable PrimaLoft Insulation to the upper and footbed, so your feet should stay warm and dry, even when you're spending time on cold rock. 

Rubber reinforcements to the toe cap and sidewall help protect your toes from a bashing, and the model features the same Vibram Megagrip outsole for traction on slick terrain.

Does it look a bit like a slipper? Sure, but if it keeps us moving through the winter without freezing our toes off, we're keen to give it a go.

The Arc'teryx Insulated Kragg shoe is available now in both men's sizing and women's sizing in Canvas and Euphoria/Granite colorways from Arcteryx.com. It is priced at $180 /£160.

• What are approach shoes?

A leading climbing brand has launched a massive recall of some popular climbing harnesses due to a design flaw that may endanger rock climbers.

According to an alert by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, the US division of French company Petzl has issued a recall of three of its harnesses after discovering the flaw. According to the official recall, the harnesses can all be put on backward, meaning the rope or carabiner can be attached to a non-weight-bearing leg loop elastic band, placing the user at risk of falling and sustaining serious injury or death. 

Approximately 22,000 of these products have been sold in the United States between January 2019 through May 2024, while another 5,800 were sold in Canada. There has been one report of a user in the United States suffering serious injuries from a fall.

This recall involves three Petzl climbing harnesses: the GYM harness (Model No. C032AA00), the PANDION harness (Model Nos. C029AA00 and C029AA01), and the PANJI harness (Model No. C028AA00). Serial numbers are printed on a label inside the harnesses.

If you believe you own any of these products, you should immediately stop using them and contact Petzl America for a free repair. Read our step-by-step guide to how to put on a climbing harness to make sure you're always putting safety first at the crag.

• The best women’s climbing shoes 2024: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures

World renowned rock climber and free soloist Alex Honnold brings a whole new dimension to “taking your work home with you”.

Now a dad, he clearly needs to spend more time at his Las Vegas family pad, but that’s not going to stop him climbing at every opportunity.

Because he’s installed an indoor climbing gym in the house, and we’re no talking one wall in the back garden. He’s gone big.

The video shows off an adjustable 16ft by 12ft Kilter Board; a 12ft by 12ft Tension Board 2; a huge spray wall with a variety of wall angles and hold types; a campus board; a few hang boards; and some more mundane exercise equipment such as dumbbells, weight plates and a ping pong table (we bet he climbs on that too, though he claims table tennis is his warm up routine).

It’s not quite the same as clambering up El Capitan, but there’s only so many time you can watch Arctic Ascent With Alex Honnold on the National Geographic channel before the itch to get climbing again takes over.

However, as Gripped points out, Honnold’s impressive setup is pretty much dwarfed by Japanese comp climbing star Tomoa Narasaki’s personal training facility that's he’s has specially built in his garden. That includes three commercial gym-sized bouldering walls (with both comp-style and spray wall sets), a 60ft / 18m lead wall with eight bolt lines, a full-sized speed wall, a truck with a platform lift to make setting easier and a spacious training room with weights and exercise equipment. You can check it out below...

• The best women’s climbing shoes 2026: for indoor climbing sessions, valley cragging and all-day mountain adventures
• The best approach shoes 2026: for alpine adventures, via ferrata, scrambling, and more

Not all collaborations from The North Face make sense (ahem, Gucci) but when they team up with some of the world's best climbers to find out what they want from an approach shoe, we're all ears.

While climbing shoes look like rubber ballet slippers and won't do you much good on the trail, approach shoes let climbers hike in, tackle scrambles and even do some easy climbing – but they're usually pretty technical, and not something you'd wear around town. 

That seems to be the missing piece, for climbers like Daniel Woods, Shawn Raboutou, Jimmy Webb, and Giuliano Cameroni who helped form the Mellow Climbing collective, a collaborative project between climbers and filmmakers.

Together, the climbers and The North Face launch The Clyffe today, described as "a revolutionary blend of a climbing shoe and the everyday sneaker" that lets you hike in on easy approaches in style, and means you can go straight from the bouldering wall to the bar without changing shoes a second time. 

Featuring a classic low-profile sneaker silhouette, The Clyffe boasts suede/synthetic uppers breathable mesh tongues that both incorporate some recycled content and Vibram Megagrip soles with 3 mm lugs to handle rough trails.

Prioritizing all-day comfort, The Clyffe shoe will be available to purchase in men's sizing starting from today on thenorthface.com for $140/£135. It's available in two colorways: black and cavern grey/new taupe green.

• The best women's climbing shoes

Amazon Prime Day might be over but it's still the perfect time to grab a new Patagonia fleece, waterproof jacket or base layer, and this is where you'll find all the best deals from the coveted brand in one place. We're sorting through all of this year's post-Prime Day deals by hand, to help you get the best discounts before they sell out

Keep an eye out for the next Amazon Prime Day, when there'll be even more great deals on Patagonia gear.

To get the Prime deals next time around, you'll need to be an Amazon Prime member. You can join Amazon Prime for $14.99 per month in the US, or £8.99 per month in the UK. 

Of course, Amazon isn't the only place to buy Patagonia gear, there are still great bargains to be had after the event, so we've also rounded up the best deals from other retailers that are running sales. 

Patagonia sales

US deals

Amazon: today's offers on bags and clothing
Backcountry: up to 60% off Patagonia gear
Dick's Sporting Goods: clearance deals from $26
Moosejaw: Patagonia clothing from under $30
Patagonia: big savings on previous seasons' gear
REI: up to 50% off Patagonia bags and apparel

UK deals

Alpinetrek: up to 45% off fleece jackets and more
Cotswold Outdoor: 20% off tops, shorts & dresses
Ellis Brigham: save 30% off Patagonia clothing
Patagonia: deep discounts on last season's gear
Snow + Rock: big savings on waterproof jackets
Tiso: 20% off Patagonia gear for men

Today's best prices

FAQ

• Why is Patagonia so expensive? We delve into the premium brand

If you’re going to call an approach shoe the El Cap, it’d better be a pretty accomplished climber. The name of these great approach shoes from Italian technical footwear specialist Zamberlan gives an obvious clue that they’re towards the climbing end of the approach shoe spectrum. Developed in collaboration with a group of professional mountain guides, the El Cap (available firect from Zamberlan) is intended for climbers and those taking on technical via ferrata adventures.

For the uninitiated, approach shoes occupy the middle ground between hiking shoes and climbing shoes, offering some of the performance and grip on rock of the latter, with the comfort and wearability of the former. Founded in 1929, Zamberlan’s handmade philosophy and drive for quality has garnered it a reputation for quality mountain footwear, with classic Italian style. I was excited to try the El Caps out on scrambles in North Wales’ Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.

Meet the reviewer

First impressions

I recently tested and reviewed the Zamberlan Salathé GTX approach shoes, which are designed for trails as well as rocky steps, arêtes and buttresses. A side-by-side comparison reveals that the El Caps are indeed tailored more towards climbing. There are nine eyelets for more precise lacing, as opposed to seven on the Salathés; the protective rubber rand is beefier; and the ankle cut is subtly lower on the El Caps.

However, the most obvious difference is in the lug pattern on the Vibram Ferrata outsole. With relatively flat triangular lugs and ample climbing zones (flat rubber sections for maximum traction on rock) at the toes and heel, it’s obvious that the El Caps are shoes designed more for the vertical realm than the horizontal one. Standard trails wouldn’t suffice for this test. I’d need to get myself to some pretty technical ground.

Before we get into the features, a word on the El Cap’s aesthetics. The upper is a delightful suede, with all the grace seen in Scarpa’s Crux, for me the most stylish of all approach shoes. However, this simple elegance is hijacked by a striped pattern on the wrap-around rubber rand around the heel, which puts one in mind of a zebra. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d have been more enthusiastic about wearing these to the pub after a climb if Zamberlan had kept it simple. Less is often more.

Features

The El Caps are narrower than more hiking-orientated approach shoes and feature a tapered toe to aid accuracy when edging. It’s also pretty snug around the heel, while climbing shoe style, ankle-to-toe lacing makes it easy to tailor the fit for maximum precision. The mid cut at the heel protects the ankle and there’s ample padding here too, for climbing comfort – two words that don't always go together.

As you’d expect from Italian manufacturers, suede is preferred to any kind of synthetic material in the upper. Hard-wearing, flexible and breathable, it adds class and comfort to the shoe – though it does make it unsuitable for vegans. The upper is treated with Zambleran’s Hydrobloc, which provides water resistance. Better still, when its power to repel water starts to suffer, you can care for your shoes by washing it and reapplying Hydrobloc to restore the repellence.

The nylon insole is prominently ridged, towards the heel, providing additional cushioning. In terms of the shape, the shoe is based on Zamberlan’s ZTEC Technical last. This features reduced volume in the instep and a downturned shape, with high volume in the foot flex area. The same last is used in many of the brand's mountain boots, where they say that a pronounced anatomical fit is beneficial.

Your foot gets so much protection here that it’ll think it’s a VIP. The rubber rand is particularly extensive, coming up high at the heel and, at the other end, providing an effective shield for the toes. This all serves to shield you from rock abrasion and should mean that the El Cap is nicely durable too – time will tell.

As seems to be de rigueur in approach footwear these days, Vibram’s Megagrip compound is put to use in the Ferrata outsole. Providing traction on both wet and dry rock, it’s the ideal material where mountain scrambling is concerned. The outsole is also noticeably more rigid than on most, not quite as stiff as a winter hiking boot, but enough to point to its high technical capabilities.

The lug pattern on the Ferrata outsole is interesting. Zamberlan says that the triangular lugs create high levels of ‘directional traction, braking and self-cleaning drainage channels.’ There are large areas of flat rubber at the toes, in particular, and at the heel. These provide greater traction when smearing, a climbing term for when you haven’t got an actual foothold but simply rely on the friction between your footwear and the rock to progress. Many technical scrambles and easier climbs feature angled slabs, which can be fairly featureless, so having footwear that can cope with that kind of terrain is essential.

On the rock

The scrambling mecca of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park in North Wales was the testing arena. From the gothic, angular rock of the Glyderau range to the famously narrow ridges of the Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) massif, I found plenty of classic lines to test the El Caps out on, as well as plenty of trails to assess their suitability for hiking days.

The tapered toe shape, combined with its high levels of protection meant that I was able to wedge my foot into cracks to create solid footholds, while the rigidity of the sole meant they held in place too. It’s not all about brutish wedging either; the narrow profile allows for precise footwork too – like an armored pointe shoe. I was able to make use of small edges that would have been off the cards wearing less technical footwear. The flat rubber towards the toes also held superbly when smearing on dry slabs.

In short, the El Caps are very accomplished scramblers and gave me loads of confidence and precision on trickier sections.

On the trails

A downside to narrower approach shoes is a lack of stability on the trails, especially compared to wider hiking shoes or boots. As mentioned, I’d previously tested Zamberlan’s Salathé GTX approach shoes, which were designed as “car to summit” shoes capable of taking on the trails. However, I found that I had to be extra careful with my foot placements when hiking on uneven trails, as it felt as though my ankle could go if I wasn’t.

The El Caps, which aren’t as tailored towards hiking, have the same issue. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve done plenty of hiking in them without injury. However, I did have to catch myself a few times during the test period having placed my foot down and felt it starting to twist at the ankle. Of course, this can happen with hiking shoes too, but I do feel the need to be extra vigilant when hiking in these kinds of approach shoes.

Having said all that, the El Caps were just as comfortable to wear on the trails as they were when taking on long scrambles. I’d recommend them for climbers and keen scramblers but for longer hikes, even those with scrambling sections, I’d opt for something with a wider outsole and more thus stability, such as Aku’s Rock DFS GTX.

Meet the reviewer

Unparallel Up Lace climbing shoes: first impressions

Combining the technical capability of a high-performance sport climbing shoe, with the fan favorite rubber from Unparallel, the Unparallel Up Lace shoes are like the not-so-secret love child between the La Sportiva Miura and Five Ten Anasazi Pink, due to their looks and stiff shoe performance. Already a firm favorite among outdoor steep wall climbers, the Unparallel Up Lace shoes are for those who love a stiff lace-up shoe, thanks to the speed lacing system, generous rubber rand and stiff midsole. For climbers wanting support from their climbing sole alongside a decent sticky rubber, they’re some of the best climbing shoes on the market.

There are many reasons why you should care about the sole of your climbing shoe – for starters, it’s the reason you may stick or come off the rock. The Unparallel Up Lace is a stiffer shoe that’s perfect for edging, heel hooks and smearing thanks to the use of Unparallel’s harder rubber compound. The Unparallel RH (Real Honor) sole is much more resilient and a stiffer rubber than the RS (Real Supreme) rubber that’s found in the company’s more sensitive sole shoes such as the Unparallel Flagship.

Unparallel Up Lace climbing shoes: on the rockface

The Unparallel Up Lace shoes are at their best when leading the way on steep terrain, feeling perfectly at home on slippery rock surfaces such as limestone and when trusting small protrusions in the rock. They’re also ideal for edging – using the sides and other parts of the shoe to find grip on the most unlikely of surfaces.

The Unparallel RH (Real Honor) rubber is a longer lasting sole, meaning the shoes are less likely to need resoling too often. Use of the speed lacing system allows for the shoes to grip the top of the foot and stop it moving around by anchoring it into place. This makes the shoe an ideal go-to for steeper, longer vertical climbs where maximum support is beneficial. A fully-lined synthetic upper with a suede-like material means the shoes are also vegan friendly.

If you are used to wearing a softer soled shoe, you’ll note the difference in how tired your calves will feel on longer vertical routes. While the Unparallel Up Lace took a little bit more time to ‘wear in’, they were my go-to pair for a precision fit that gave plenty of feedback and trust in my footwork.

Testing these shoes on a trip to some of the steeper multi-pitch walls of Sax and Marin, I learnt to get on with the Unparallel Up Lace shoes – but found they felt better when they weren't in the heat of the direct midday sun. It’s worth bearing in mind that when climbing in warmer climates to usual your feet can swell and suddenly technically sized shoes can be noticeable for all the wrong reasons! I found the confidence I had on vertical walls was far better when I kept the shoes in the shade and tried to ventilate my feet between climbs.

Sizing wise, I typically wear a European size 40 in trainers, but I am used to wearing tighter climbing shoes. For the Unparallel Up Lace shoes, I tried several pairs on in-store and decided on a European 38.5 which felt quite tight. If I wanted a more relaxed fit for more all-day wear, I would opt for a size 39.

• How Advnture tests products

If your climbing gear is starting to look a bit worse for wear, good news – Patagonia's Worn Wear Climbing Tour is coming to a crag or wall near you, ready to patch up your jackets and pants to get them working good as new.

Patagonia (which recently debuted a film titled The Shittropocene about the perils of fast fashion and overconsumption) has long promoted making clothing, bags and other items last as long as possible rather than buying more at the first sign of wear.

Throughout the spring, the company will be taking two rolling repair shops around festivals and climbing spots throughout Europe, including destinations in France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The tour will start in the UK this weekend, with the mobile workshops stopping at the following locations:

• 11-12 May, Covent Garden, London
• 17-19 May Keswick Mountain Festival
• 24-27 May Climb Out Festival
• 5-7 July - Timber Festival

Check out Patagonia's website for more details and the full list of tour dates.

Whether it's a broken zipper, a ripped jacket, or a broken pull cord, you'll be able to get your gear repaired by an expert, and learn how to carry out simple fixes yourself.

Can't make it to one of the tour stops? The following guides will help you make some essential repairs and refresh your gear ready for your next adventure:

• Essential tent repairs
• Sleeping pad repair guide
• How to repair a sleeping bag
• How to waterproof a jacket
• How to waterproof hiking boots

Recently, I was feeling a bit nostalgic about my years living in the Rocky Mountains and looking fondly through some old rock climbing photos. One photo, of myself and six friends at the top of Colorado National Monument pulled me up short.

We had just climbed Otto’s Route, a very fun five-pitch chimney climb that’s not especially technical because in 1911 John Otto cut holes and drilled rungs into the red sandstone (something that would never be allowed today). Today, the rungs are gone but you can still use the holes to climb and there are some bolts remaining. There’s one crux move to reach the top, and then you’re laughing. Like any trad climb, there’s some risk involved. So I was shocked when looking at the photo to see that only two of us are wearing climbing helmets.

At the time, I don’t think I noticed that myself and my climbing partner were alone in this. Helmets are just a part of life for me – I have one for climbing, cycling and skiing. I’m a journalist and I’d like to protect my brain so I can keep writing about the outdoors, so it seems like an obvious thing to do when I spend most of my time hiking, scrambling, climbing and hurtling down steep slopes. Helmet technology has come a long way and, unlike climbing shoes, they’re really quite comfortable and breathable these days, so I never noticed that I’m wearing one.

But not everyone thinks this way, as my photo reveals. In fact, a 2019 review of 150 wilderness falls in the United States found that only one climber was wearing a helmet, while head injuries accounted for 43 percent of all injuries. There are other studies that suggest that helmet use is less than ubiquitous, and while the studies themselves can be a little vague about what constitutes climbing, just head to the crag and you’re likely to see plenty of folk out there without a lid on. 

If you’re taking up rock climbing for the first time, or taking your climbing outdoors after learning in the gym, you might be wondering whether you really need a helmet, especially if most other climbers you know aren’t wearing one. It’s not clear why so few climbers don a helmet, though one 2006 study noted that male climbers were less likely to wear one, and some climbers complain they’re uncomfortable.

It might not save you from every injury, especially if you experience catastrophic equipment failure and a big fall, but might be able to ward off some injury to a pretty important part of your body.

Though a 2023 study concluded that the efficacy of climbing helmets is difficult to test in real-life, as there are many variables such as speed on impact, type of helmet and location of impact, we still think there are three compelling arguments for protecting your head at the crag. 

1. You could fall

Let’s start with the obvious. Falling is the most common cause of climbing injuries and it usually happens when you’re on the way up, not down. Lead climbers are at higher risk of falling than their partners. If you’re leading, you’re only as safe as the last piece of gear you placed, after all. 

According to a 2020 study of rock climbing injuries in the Austrian Alps which examined nearly 3,000 cases, falls were the leading cause of injury (responsible for about two-thirds) and the risk for severe or fatal injuries increased when climbing without a helmet.

When you’re climbing outdoors, there’s no cushy pad on the floor to absorb the impact if you fall before you place your first piece of gear, and even if you end up taking a big swing or hanging upside down instead of hitting the ground, there’s lots of hard stuff you can hit your head on. A helmet can provide a little cushioning and minimize some of the force and damage when your head makes contact with the wall or the ground.

2. You might get hit by falling rock

Whether you’re edging or on belay, hazards falling from above – usually rock – provide another really important reason to wear a helmet. According to a 2020 review of research on climbing injuries published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, around five percent of injuries involved someone being hit by a falling rock, while the Austrian study put that number closer to eight percent. Regardless, research seems to conclude that, after falling, rockfall is second the main cause of injury to the head, neck and shoulders. 

Whether it's a piece of rock that broke off in your climbing partner's hand or a wayward cam, it's not going to feel great if it clocks you in the head at high velocity, and when you're tied in, there's no place to go. Climbing helmets are built to absorb the impact of falling objects so they just bounce off you.

3. You set a good example for others

A third and final reason you should be wearing a helmet when you climb outdoors is simply because it sets a good example to others. Climbing is on the rise and since it’s about to appear in the Olympics for the second time, there is no doubt only going to be more and more people joining the sport. 

When new and potentially impressionable climbers come to the crag and look around for inspiration, seeing more experienced climbers take safety seriously will inspire them to do the same. Your actions could save your own life, but they could also save another. So go, read our article on how to fit a climbing helmet, which explains the different types of helmet, and live to see another pitch.

• The best approach shoes

Meet the reviewer

Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine GTX: first impressions

My initial reaction when unboxing my Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine GTX approach shoes was to reach for my best sunglasses, because the ‘Euphoria & Graphite’ color scheme of my test pair is bright enough to sear the surface of your retinas. It also made me wince a little bit, since I knew was going to feel a tad self-conscious hitting the trails and crags in these loud loafers.

However, I should stress that these approach shoes from Arc’teryx are available in several other, far less attention-seeking colorways, and, as is always the case with this classy Canadian brand, the overall design and look is super stylish and sleek.

When it came to taking them on their maiden outing, it took some pulling to get these shoes on my feet, thanks to the tight-fitting integrated sock inner. This isn’t a criticism, per se, because – as I describe in more detail below – this design serves several excellent purposes, but it is something to be aware of. If you like a shoe that’s quick and easy to get on, look elsewhere. 

But, if you’re seeking an approach shoe that protects your feet and toes perfectly from the elements and tough technical terrain, and offers a good balance between performance-related rigidity and comfort, then read on, because I have been trail and crag-testing the Vertex Alpine GTXs to see how they perform in comparison to the best approach shoes currently on the market. 

Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine GTX: design and construction

The Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine GTX features a Cortura chassis constructed from recycled PET bottles, reinforced with TPU overlays, which form a rand that goes almost completely around each shoe, to protect the wearer’s foot from sharp rocks and other hazards. There’s a small toecap too, and the heel is cushioned by a midsole buffer that extends slightly beyond the natural range of the foot.

One of the defining features of this shoe is the integrated, stretchy sock inner, which replaces a traditional tongue but also extends right around the top of the heel to hug the whole foot, just below the ankle. There’s a fabric pull hook on the top of the heel (which is very much required when squeezing your foot into this shoe) and small pocket to tuck the tied laces into, positioned on top of the sock.

The whole upper is lined with a Gore-Tex membrane, to provide breathable waterproof protection from the soggy elements, such as rain, sleet and snow.

The midsole is made from a durable combination of EVA and polyolefin, and embedded within this material mix is a TPU shank that provides a good degree of stiffness across the length of the shoe (and acts as a rockplate too). There’s an 8mm drop on the Vertex Alpine GTX, which has a stack height of 18mm at the heel and 10mm at the toe.

Arc’teryx have worked with Vibram on this approach shoe, and the XS Flash 2 outsole is armed with strategically positioned 4mm lugs, designed to supply both traction and control when required on technical terrain.

Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine GTX: in the hills

I have been putting my Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine GTX approach shoes through their paces on technical hillside trails and crags in a mixture of conditions over the last month.

This is a new product for Arc’teryx, but as a brand built on a solid climbing heritage their design department obviously fully understands what’s required in an approach shoe, and where exactly it’s important to diverge from the features offered by a hiking shoe or, indeed a trail running shoe. (Interestingly, the marketing blurb references the Vertex Alpine GTX sharing some DNA with trail running shoes, but I certainly wouldn’t go out running in them, precisely because they are well-designed for approach requirements, which makes them far too heavy and stiff for running.)

To start with these attributes, there is a very reassuring degree of rigidity across the length of these shoes, which makes them perfect for tackling scrambling routes and edging around rocks during peak ascents or while engaged in technical approach adventures. 

The midsole is supportive and robust, and it provides the right amount of cushioning to keep long approach hikes comfortable without being spongy and energy sapping, or negating the stiffness in the shank.

The heel bumper and toecap are also good, even though the latter is perhaps a little on the small size. You can still definitely kick and stomp snow steps without damaging your pinkies.

The outsole is very grippy on a range of rock types and other surfaces, and across various conditions, including in the wet. The lugs aren’t overly aggressive, and because they’re not intended for use on soft muddy surfaces, they don’t need to be. Instead the chevrons are shaped and positioned to provide grip and traction on rocks and rubble on the way up, and confidence and control during descents. I did find that the sole pattern collected some mud when I got lower down, but again, that’s because the focus is firmly on providing performance up above the treeline, where conditions are less gloopy.

Up on top, the Gore-Tex membrane incorporated in the chassis does its job exactly as you would expect it to, keeping rain, snow and sleet on the outside so you can tackle technical terrain with dry socks and warm feet. It is breathable, so far as any waterproof footwear is, but the integrated sock does mean these shoes run quite warm, and can get pretty sweaty in hot weather. I really like the lace pocket on top of the sock, which keeps things nice and clean, with no loose ends flapping around, and reduces the likelihood you’ll need to pause to retie laces.

The integrated knit sock itself is a love-it-or-hate-it feature. On the one hand (sorry, foot) it is fantastic for preventing the ingress of grit, scree, pebbles, ice and everything else that will irritate you terribly if it gets into the shoe. And it helps with thermal protection, as well as improving the waterproof performance of the Vertex Alpine GTX. Plus it provides a tangible degree of support and confidence, enhancing the hold and reducing foot movement within the shoe.

However, precisely because it is so good at gripping your foot once it’s in the shoe, this sock makes it annoyingly awkward, time-consuming and energy-sapping to get the Vertex Alpine GTX on in the first place. Without the pull hoop at the back it would be virtually impossible, and I do wonder whether the pressure that needs to be exerted on this feature could potentially lead to damage or failure over time (although, I should add that the build quality seems really solid, and there’s no indication of wear and tear at the moment). I suspect that the knit will become slightly more forgiving over time too, getting a little bit looser with repeat usage.

As mentioned, the sock also makes these shoes quite warm to wear – which is great in alpine environments for most of the year, but can lead to sweatiness in summer and at lower altitudes.

I did find the whole fit a bit tight – not just in terms of the sock inner, which of course is designed to be close-fitting, but also in the chassis itself, especially across the top of the foot and in the toe box. If you have wide feet, and especially if you suffer with bunions, then you will struggle with these shoes.

• How Advnture tests products

In the spring of 2023, I was lucky enough to be invited, along with other British journalists and industry types, to the Dolomites by Italian trekking and mountaineering footwear brand Aku. The Dolomites is a region of incredibly beautiful yet savage rocky peaks that contrast markedly against the lush alpine meadows and pastures below. It’s among the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

We were guided around the splendid Val Canali in the Pale di San Martino group by Aku ambassador and alpine guide Peter Moser, primarily to test the Aku Slope V-Light GTX boot. While enjoying the soaring pinnacles, clear blue skies and grandeur of this mountain arena, we were as yet unaware that Moser had, a couple of years earlier, climbed the six main peaks of the region in a single day. It was a staggering achievement and is the subject of a recent film, Pionieri.

To tackle this monstrous route, Moser wore the Aku Rock DFS GTX approach shoe, which enabled him to climb, hike and, at times, run in comfort. Approach shoes were originally designed to help rock climbers approach crags, where they'd swap them out for their more precise climbing shoes. These days, approach shoes are often the footwear of choice for adventurous souls, providing confidence on technical ground without the discomfort sometimes associated with rock climbing shoes.

You don’t have to be pulling off audacious single day summit raids in the Dolomites to benefit from them, there are several reasons you need approach shoes if you like any of the pursuits of adventurous hiking, scrambling or climbing. Here, I reveal 7 arguments for getting yourself a pair.

Meet the expert

What are approach shoes?

• Approach shoes offer the comfort of hiking shoes with some of the performance of climbing shoes
• They feature grippy outsoles with flat sections at the front and back for traction on rock
• They're also more rigid and tend to be narrower than hiking shoes
• They usually feature high levels of protection against rock abrasion

Approach shoes occupy the middle ground between climbing shoes and hiking shoes. They bring the comfort of the latter with some of the grip and precision of the former, making them the ideal footwear for technical scrambling terrain. The approach in the name refers to their intended use by rock climbers, who’d use them on often tricky approaches to a climbing route and then swap them out for their climbing shoes.

However, since first appearing on the scene around 30 years ago, approach shoes have grown in popularity and are often used instead of climbing shoes on easier climbs or for long multi-pitch routes, and instead of hiking shoes on scrambling terrain.

In terms of features, the rubber used in the sole is softer than in a pair of hikers, designed for optimum performance on rock than muddy trails. The toe and heel sections of the sole usually feature a flatter climbing zone for increased traction on rocky slabs. They’re also more rigid, enabling the wearer to plant the side of the shoe on small ledges with much more confidence than a standard shoe provides.

Protection against rock abrasion and additional side grip is also often provided by a rubber rand, as well as reinforcements at the toe and heel. The fit is also more precise, with climbing shoe style ankle to toe lacing, and they tend to be narrower than standard hikers, enabling the wearer to jam their foot into smaller cracks. This is the case with the Zamberlan Salathé GTX shoes I tested recently. The downside to this is that it makes them less stable when hiking.

1. For the technical approaches

• Technical approaches to rock climbs is what approach shoes were first designed for
• Approach shoes have an attachment loop, so you can clip them out the way when the gnarlier climbing begins

This is what the approach shoe was originally designed for, the awkward ground after the walk in but before the climbing begins in earnest. If you’re a serious or aspiring rock climber, getting yourself a pair is a no brainer. They typically feature a fabric loop for attachment to a climbing harness and are relatively lightweight, making them easy to carry while you’re on the wall.

2. For the difficult scrambles

• For challenging scrambles, approach shoes perform much better than hiking shoes
• For easier scrambles, normal hiking footwear will suffice

For easier scrambling that’s more akin to adventurous hiking than climbing, I’d often opt for a pair of trail running shoes or standard hikers. However, once I start approaching trickier terrain, approach shoes provide much better performance and that all-important confidence, shoving what might otherwise be serious type-2 fun back into… well, proper fun. 

For this kind of terrain, we’re talking about US grade 3 to 5 (on the Yosemite Decimal System) and UK scrambling grades 2 to 3. This kind of scrambling involves tougher and more sustained sections on technical terrain with committing moves, where a fall could lead to serious injury or in some cases be lethal. If this sounds like the kind of scrambling you enjoy, it’s definitely worth investing in a pair of approach shoes.

3. For the easier climbing routes

• Approach shoes are perfectly suited to easier climbing routes
• Wearing approach shoes is also good practice for climbing on alpine adventures

Mountain guides will often spend a day at a crag with clients and wear their approach shoes the entire time. This is because the grades they’re likely to be climbing often aren’t technical enough to warrant climbing shoes. They’d much rather be comfortable and use the time when they’d be otherwise changing footwear to either watch their clients sorting their gear out and give a few pointers, or simply ensure they’ve got everything ready for the session ahead.

If you have alpine ambitions, it’s also good to become comfortable climbing easier rock climbs in footwear other than climbing shoes. I’ve easily climbed UK VDiffs (somewhere around US grade 5.4) in approach shoes and I’m sure I could push it much further still. It’s worth seeing what kind of climbing grade you can tackle in such footwear. So, whether that’s in your approach shoes or in winter boots, time spent gaining confidence on these kinds of climbs is time well spent, as you won’t be wearing climbing shoes when faced with a tricky gendarme in the Alps.

4. For the multi-pitch monsters

• The long-lasting comfort of an approach shoes makes them ideal for multi-pitch climbs
• They're also perfect for mountaineering routes involving a mix of climbing, scrambling and hiking

Multi-pitch climbs are routes that require more than one rope length and, therefore, multiple belays to tackle. They can be sport climbs or trad climbs and, while the more technical routes obviously require climbing shoes, there are many where approach shoes would be the preferred option. This is particularly the case where the more serious pitches are separated by prolonged sections of scrambling or even walking, where you might move roped together in the alpine style, rather than pitching everything. 

Good examples of these kinds of mountaineering routes in the UK are Tower Ridge on Ben Nevis, which is mostly a tricky scramble with the occasional easy climbing pitch, or the spectacular Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye, a lengthy and exciting traverse with a handful of climbing pitches.

5. For the via ferratas

• Approach shoes provide ideal grip for via ferrata routes
• They also provide excellent protection against rock abrasion

Via ferrata, a thrilling activity originating in the Austrian Alps, involves following a scrambling or climbing route that has been made significantly safer, and therefore easier, by the installation of a wire to clip into and other forms of fixed protection. The routes vary in length and some hut-to-hut treks in the Alps even feature sections of via ferrata.

Approach shoes are perfect for via feratta, providing loads of confidence on the tastier climbing sections and all-around protection and comfort when crossing scree fields and the like. Snowfields can pose a potential barrier even during summer on some via ferratas, so do your research on your chosen route. You can always take microspikes or similar traction devices but bear in mind approach shoes are not crampon compatible.

6. For the long walk ins

• Approach shoes are lighter than burly winter boots
• This makes them ideal for long walk ins

As well as approaches to climbing routes often being technical, they can also be very long. The same is true of winter mountaineering routes, where you may have to gain significant elevation to reach the snowline. Wearing clunky B2 winter hiking boots for a long walk in can be pretty uncomfortable after a while, not to mention fatiguing. Approach shoes are designed to be relatively lightweight and can be stashed away, or attached to a harness when you reach the frozen stuff.

7. For the pub

• Approach shoes have a certain amount of credibility among mountain folk
• They're comfortable to wear in the pub

Some approach shoes blend comfort and understated style to such a degree that they become the footwear of choice for the denizens of mountain pubs – the guides, Mountain Rescue team members and local climbing superstars. There’s a certain amount of credibility gained when you stride into the bar, hair still ruffled from your romp on the rhyolite and order the local craft beer or wine, all while wearing your approach shoes.

I’ve previously lost count of the number of instructors wearing a pair of Scarpa Cruxes, while sat at the Yr Wyddfa Bar at Plas y Brenin, the Welsh National Outdoor Center. Italian suede has always been stylish. Of course, not all approach shoes have this kind of classy aesthetic but those that do are definitely the savvy post-mountain option.

Meet the reviewer

Patagonia Women’s Chambeau Rock Pants: first impressions

The Patagonia Women’s Chambeau Rock Pants are an ultra-lightweight pair of climbing and hiking pants that don’t sacrifice performance for the sake of weight.

Designed with rock climbing in mind, the Chambeau Rock Pants have a high waistband and an articulated cut so that they are comfortable to wear with a harness, even for extended periods. The main fabric on the body of the trousers has a four-way stretch, so they don’t impede your movement. They also have a flat construction design, so there’s no additional chafing caused by the hems.

If you’re hoping for roomy pockets these don’t quite deliver, and the thumb pockets on the front and back are really aesthetic rather than functional.

Patagonia is a known leader in transparency around its manufacturing practices, so it’s no surprise that most of the fabric is made using recycled materials, including 86% recycled polyester certified by Ocean Cycle. The other 14% is elastane fabric that is PFC free, i.e. made without fluorinated chemicals to ensure the trousers aren’t adding more harmful chemicals to the environment.

Patagonia Women’s Chambeau Rock Pants: in the field

These are marketed as rock climbing pants, and I had the opportunity to test them when rock climbing and hiking in a hot, lush alpine climate in the Fann Mountains, Tajikistan. The pants needed to be comfortable for all-day wear with big temperature fluctuations and not draw too much attention in a country where women wear traditional clothes, and locals aren’t used to westerners wearing skimpy or figure-hugging outdoor garments.

The Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants are surprisingly comfortable trousers that don’t restrict you when ascending high steps or climbing in and out of 4WD vehicles, thanks to the four-way stretch and articulated pattern. The trousers are also abrasion resistant so didn’t develop holes in the usual ‘high wear’ areas such as in the seat or the knees, thanks to the dense weave of the fabric.

I wear a size 6 in Patagonia, which equates to a UK size 10, and find these feel true to size even if you have an active body type with more curves. I tested these in the lightest color and I did notice that the trouser material wasn’t as thick as I’d thought, meaning that the pale shade left me with a VPL, aka a visible panty line. It was a bit annoying having to be mindful of what underwear I had on!

I wore these trousers in temperatures ranging from 18–48°C / 64–118°F. They allowed my legs to breathe and they didn’t feel too sweaty, but I felt they best suited the alpine settings, with glacially formed lakes, scree, and direct sun overhead, as they gave coverage and protection from nicks and stones thanks to the narrow-tapered design.

Features wise, the Chambeau Rock Pants are a more minimalist design, and a lie-flat construction means there are no raised seams or hems so they can be comfortable worn under a harness without causing additional rubbing. This also means there’s less chafing when worn with a hip belt while carrying a heavy day pack or travel bag.

There are side pockets which can fit a few items, but these aren’t super roomy and the same could be said for the rear pockets. The most useful pocket is the secure, zippered right-thigh pocket that sits comfortably above the knee and below harness leg loops. This was the go-to pocket for my phone because it didn’t restrict my leg movement or feel uncomfortable when I sat down. The zipper on the pocket was only big enough for an iPhone Mini, though.

Ultralightweight, water-resistant and compatible with harness use, the Patagonia Women’s Chambeau Rock Pants are a great technical pair of lightweight hiking trousers. They can stretch and move through the mountains with you and really come into their own in environments where a softshell trouser could be too ‘heavyweight’, yet still provide enough protection and modesty in hot climates. Plus, as they’re Patagonia, their green credentials are particularly transparent, using Fairtrade-certified materials from factories that pay a fair wage and provide reassurance that these trousers will continue to last and be made in a sustainable way.

• How Advnture tests products

Do rock climbing shoes need to be uncomfortable? We’re not going to lie, in the world of rock climbing there can be a bit of a balance between performance and comfort. A certain level of discomfort can be expected at times. How much really depends on the choices you make as a climber. But, we’d argue that climbing shoes don’t necessarily need to be uncomfortable.

Admittedly, it’s rare you hear climbing shoes described as comfortable. If they are, its often with the word relatively before it. Relatively can cover all manner of sins. There are reasons that mountain professionals wear approach shoes when guiding clients on “easier” rock climbs. Firstly, the climbs will be well within their comfort zone (they probably wouldn’t guide on them otherwise), they don’t have to faff with changing footwear at the bottom of the crag and, basically, approach shoes are a hell of a lot more comfortable than climbing shoes.

So, climbing shoes are a world away from popping on a cozy pair of slippers and they’re still behind the likes of hiking boots in the comfort stakes. But, do they need to be uncomfortable? Sure, you’re not going to take on a thru hike in a pair but surely they should be moderately pleasant to wear when, y’know, actually climbing in them?

Meet the expert

What is a climbing shoe?

• Climbing shoes feature flat rubber soles for excellent grip on rock
• They're designed to be tight-fitting and conform to the shape of the foot
• They are not comfortable to walk in

A climbing shoe is a piece of footwear designed specifically for rock climbing or indoor climbing. Designed to fit tight and conform to the shape of the foot, they feature a flat, sticky rubber outsole and protective rands at the toes and heel. These enable climbers to stand on tiny ledges and holds, providing precision and sensitivity way beyond other forms of footwear.

Unlike running shoes, approach shoes, or hiking shoes, climbing shoes are not comfortable to walk in, nor are they meant to be.

Women’s climbing shoes often have a softer structure, which makes them more flexible when under less weight, as female climbers are generally lighter than male climbers.

How tight should climbing shoes be?

• Climbing shoes should fit tight, with no dead space between the shoe and the foot
• There should be a slight curl at the toes
• They should still feel relatively comfortable and not be so tight as to cause pain

How should climbing shoes fit? There’s no one size fits all answer to this question, as there are myriad factors at play, including the kind of terrain you’ll be taking on, the difficulty of your intended climbing goals and the style of climbing shoe (more on this later). Fundamentally, they should fit your feet tightly, with no dead space between shoe and the foot and a slight curl at the toes, yet not be so tight that your foot feels crammed in.

There’s a myth that has been circulating for decades that climbing shoes should be so tight as to be positively painful. Legendary American climber Alex Lowe famously said: “The best climber is the one having the most fun.” If your feet are in agony, you’ll be having the least fun and, by extension, you’ll be the worst climber.

• La Sportiva recommend buying a shoe around 2 sizes smaller than your usual footwear
• It's important to try different sizes on to get the right fit for you
• Bear in mind that climbing shoes expand a little with use

I remember buying my first pair from a little shop attached to the climbing gym by the canal at Mile End, in East London. I’d come to climbing as a hiker and I’d long been hiring shoes to use on the bouldering walls. However, I had my eyes on outdoor climbing and it was time to get myself a pair.

“Think you can go tighter?” asked the helpful shop advisor every time I appraised the ever-shrinking test pair of the La Sportiva Mythos shoes he'd helped me to chose. “The tighter the better.” 

For my hiking shoes and trail running shoes, I’m a UK size 8 (US 9). The pair of La Sportivas I ended up investing in were a UK size 6 (US 7). Subsequently, I did a bit of research and found that La Sportiva (the very same!) recommends that “to optimize performance and ensure a stronger grip, more experienced climbers suggest buying a climbing shoe that is 2 sizes smaller than the size used for other types of footwear.” So, it seems my little session of trial and error at the climbing shop was in sync with professional advice. However, I wouldn’t have blindly gone in and asked for a size 6 pair off this advice alone. I arrived at my eventual pair by trying them on until both my advisor and I were happy with them.

I’ve got on well with that first pair and, while they took a little while to break in, they were soon comfortable enough for me to thoroughly enjoy my days at the crags. By common consent, the Mythos is one of the most comfortable climbing shoes out there. Another thing to note is, climbing shoes tend to expand a little with use, particularly leather ones. So, just as climbing is the best way to train for climbing, climbing is also the best thing for breaking in your tight-fitting shoes.

How important the shape of the last?

A shoe’s last is the 3D, foot-shaped mold that forms the basis of its design. Every footwear manufacturer has their own last designs and the same last can be used in many shoes across a range.

Broadly speaking, there are three types of climbing shoes, with each variety built upon the foundation of the last’s shape.

Neutral: These have a flat profile, a thick, stiff sole and look most like a normal pair of shoes. This makes them well-suited to newbies, as they allow the foot to assume a fairly natural position, thus making them the most comfortable option. Don’t be mistaken into thinking they’re only for beginners though – many veterans of the crags prefer them too, particularly for longer, multi-pitch adventures. We like the women’s Five Ten NIAD Lace, which should be relatively comfortable to wear all day long.

Moderate: Less comfortable than neutral shoes, moderate climbing shoes have a downturned profile, meaning they curl down at the toes, which makes them suited to more difficult, technical climbing. Good all-rounders, they give the climber greater security on the crag than a neutral pair. The Tenaya Ra LV are among our favorite moderate women’s climbing shoes.

Aggressive: The highest performing but least comfortable option is an aggressive pair, which feature a significantly downturned profile, like the beak of a raptor. They provide sensitivity for challenging overhanging routes and difficult bouldering. We particularly like the Scarpa Instinct Lace, an excellent pair of aggressive climbing shoes. As mentioned, aggressive climbing shoes aren’t exactly comfortable for long periods and few would climb multi-pitch routes in them. They’re also not great for crack climbers, due to the pressure points created when you jam your foot into said cracks.

So, generally speaking, the more aggressive your climbing shoes are, the less comfortable they’ll be. If you’re all about epic multi-pitch climbs and you expect to be in your climbing shoes for the duration, a more neutral pair is advised. For shorter, snappier, more technical routes, bring the aggro!

Are some climbing shoes better for indoor walls?

• Neutral shoes are arguably better for long sessions indoors

The good news is that there are no climbing shoes out there that you can’t wear both indoors and out. However, if you’re having a long day at the indoor wall, you’d ideally want a relaxed pair that you’ll be comfortable in for hours on end. With this in mind, neutral shoes are preferable, which is one of the reasons why the shoes your climbing gym rent out are typically of this kind of design.

Another consideration is the amount of protection a shoe gives. Natural rock surfaces are generally much more abrasive than those found on an artificial wall, so a stiffer climbing shoe is a good shout for long routes outdoors.

The verdict

• Climbing shoes shouldn't be overly uncomfortable
• Get the right fit and style for the objectives you intend to take on
• Technical objectives in aggressive shoes will lead to greater discomfort

No, rock climbing shoes do not need to be uncomfortable. The nature of the beast is that they’re never going to be the coziest pair of footwear you own, but that doesn’t mean they need to be awfully uncomfortable either. If you ensure you get the right fit and the right style of climbing shoe for your personal goals, plus you look after your feet and swap your shoes out every now and again, climbing shouldn’t be an uncomfortable experience overall.

However, a little bit of discomfort is to be expected at times, particularly if you’re taking on really technical objectives wearing aggressive shoes. Climbers at this level do sacrifice some degree of comfort for performance and it’s not like they’re going to wear their shoes continuously for several hours. The bottom line is you should never be left in pain. If this is the case, you’ve either got the wrong shoes or you’re pushing too hard.

It was a London Mountaineering Club meet in early February and Eryri National Park’s stunning Glyderau range were blanketed in snow. We’d set our sights on two of the UK’s classic mountaineering ridges: Tryfan’s North Ridge and Glyder Fach’s Bristly Ridge. These are two spectacular yet relatively easy Grade 1 scrambles in summer. In winter conditions, however, they really bare their icy teeth and become much more challenging Grade 2 winter climbs.

My friends Will and Andrew had decided to bring their harnesses and ropes. I didn’t. I didn’t even own a harness. I’ve done them in summer, no problem, I thought. How much harder can they be under snow and ice? Making this kind of judgement is what’s known as falling into a heuristic trap. I’d made my decision based on familiarity and without considering the wider picture and the nature of the conditions. Neverthless, Tryfan was marvellous fun. But, on Bristly Ridge there were admittedly a few spicy moments. With daytime waning, we ended up having to escape the ridge with a rappel.

Will sent his harness up to me on the rope after he’d already rappelled down to safer ground. I wasn’t at all sure how to put on a climbing harness, as it had been a while since I’d worn one. With all its loops, straps and buckles, it wasn’t immediately obvious how to go about it. Fortunately, I had an expert in Andrew alongside me and before long it was on, checked, and I was ready begin my rappel.

“Tomorrow, Alex, you’re buying a harness,” Will said to me, as our hiking boots crunched through the headlamp-lit snow on the descent to the car. “You’re a climber, not a hiker.” Can't I be both? Anyway, the next day, in an outdoor gear shop in North Welsh adventure capital Llanberis, I was trying on my brand-new climbing harness and many exciting days lay ahead.

Meet the expert

The climbing harness

• A climbing harness is a padded belt with two thigh loops
• It has attachment points for climbing ropes and gear
• It's the harness that's attached to the rope that holds you in the event of a fall

A climbing harness is an essential bit of safety kit that, when used correctly, opens up many exciting adventure types, such as indoor climbing, sport, trad, mountaineering, ice climbing and canyoneering, to name a few. They’re basically padded belts with thigh loops that tighten around the waist and thighs of the climber. They have various attachment points for ropes and climbing gear. If you were to fall while on a route, it's the harness that's attached to the rope that holds you. Needless to say, knowing how to put on a climbing harness is important.

If you’re getting into climbing or if, like I had on Bristly Ridge, you’ve hit the ceiling of what’s manageable for you without ropes in terms of your outdoor adventures, it’s time to choose a climbing harness and make the investment.

Learning how to put on a climbing harness is very straightforward and once you’ve done it a few times, you’ll be an expert yourself. Here’s how to do it:

1: Loosen the waist and thigh buckles

Start by loosening the waistbelt straps and thigh loop straps fully using their buckles. A climbing harness is much easier to put on if these are as loose as possible to begin with.

2: Check everything is in order

Before stepping into it, hold the harness up in front of you to inspect that nothing is twisted and that everything is broadly in line. Correct it if not. The padded part of the waistbelt should be facing the same way as the padded part of the leg loops and all the straps should be straight.

This is also an opportunity to check for any potential damage or defects. The other important time to do this is at the end of a day’s climbing, as you’ll have time to sort it, rather than being stood at the bottom of the crag with a faulty bit of gear.

3: Lay the harness out

Lay the harness out on the ground with the thigh loops below and within the waist loop. Remember that the padded sections are for your back and the back of your thighs. Once you're well practised, you may not need to lay the harness out like this but it's a good method for beginners to get used to putting it on.

4: Step in and pull up

Step in through the loops with both feet and pull the waistbelt up so that it sits above your hip, bringing the thigh loops with it, which should sit nicely around your upper thighs. Basically, it’s a bit like pulling up your boxers or briefs.

Before tightening the loops and belt, take time to sort out and straighten any garments the harness now sits on top of. The last thing you want is your down jacket getting in the way when you’re reaching for quickdraws and the like.

5: Tighten things up

Now, tighten up the thigh loops and the waistbelt. It doesn’t need to be uncomfortably tight, but you mustn't be able to pull the harness down below your hips. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to slide a flat hand under the straps.

Modern harnesses tend to feature pre-threaded buckles that are configured in a double-back manner and stay this way when loosened and tightened. However, other harnesses require the user to thread the strap back through the buckle in order to properly secure it. Every harness is different, so it’s important to study the instruction manual before use.

6: Final checks

You’re almost set to “climb when ready!” But first, it’s good practice to both check your own harness and your climbing partner’s harness before the climb begins, just as you do with each others’ figure 8 knots. Again, check for any defects, any twists in the straps and check each buckle closely.

All done? Now it’s time to tie in.

7: After the climb

When your climb is done and it’s time to pack away, don’t forget to take the opportunity to check your harness over once again for damage. Try to pack it away neatly and, if it gets particularly dirty, it might be worth cleaning your harness when you get home.

Meet the tester

The North Face Summit Torre Egger Futurelight jacket: first impressions

The North Face Summit Torre Egger Futurelight is one of the brand’s dedicated mountaineering hardshells, a waterproof jacket designed to keep you safe and comfortable on mountaineering escapades.

It comes with a series of technical features, such as pit zips, wrist cuffs, internal dump pockets and a phenomenally well-designed hood, as well as The North Face’s proprietary Futurelight fabric – a clear Gore-Tex rival which, according to The North Face, delivers, “breakthrough breathability”, “innovative waterproofness” and “exceptional comfort”.

All of this tech doesn’t run cheap, however: when bought directly from The North Face, the Torre Egger jacket will set you back a whopping $590 / £515. This puts it very much at the top end of the price spectrum for three-layer mountaineering hardshells in this class, coming in almost $200 / £200 more expensive than similar jackets, such as the Patagonia Triolet or the Berghaus MTN Seeker GTX jacket. 

So what is it about the Torre Egger that makes it so pricey, and is it worth the investment?

The North Face Summit Torre Egger Futurelight jacket: in the wild

I’ve had my hands on The North Face Summit Torre Egger Futurelight jacket for several months now, and I’ve been able to get out in it on several occasions. Most notably, I was able to take it on a three-day mountaineering trip through Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park in January where I put the coat up against everything from driving wind and unrelenting rain to the odd January snow shower. Over the span of the trip, I wore the Torre Egger under a heavy 16kg pack (and a lighter daypack for a summit push up Cairn Gorm on day two) and got a real feel for how it performs during both high-output exercise and zone 2-style gentle jaunts. And after all of that, I have to say, I was left nothing but impressed. 

Try as I might, I was unable to spot a flaw in this jacket. Coming in at such a high price, I was constantly nit-picking, trying to find the one poorly designed feature that would validate my assumption that “this should never cost so much!” But there’s just nothing negative to note. It’s super comfortable, breathable and a joy to wear, feeling more like a softshell-style jacket rather than a hard-wearing three-layer waterproof powerhouse.

Which is one thing I particularly appreciate about the Torre Egger: the feel when wearing it. This jacket doesn’t trap you inside like other durable hardshells, with the material and the cut allowing you to move optimally as if you weren’t wearing a powerful hardshell at all. What’s more, my experience only validates The North Face’s claims regarding the breathability of Futurelight. And while I can’t confirm this with any scientific breathability breakdown, I’ve climbed Cairn Gorm many times over the year in a variety of different three-layer Gore-Tex hardshells, and this latest jaunt was definitely the most comfortable.

Another thing I really liked about the Torre Egger is the hood. Helmet-compatible hoods are often built for the helmet first, a naked head second. Take the Patagonia Triolet, for example, a jacket I compared the Torre Egger to earlier. This jacket is near perfect, being let down only by the sloppy design of the hood when you’re not wearing it over a helmet. The Torre Egger has no such drawback, however – the numerous toggles on the hood allow you to cinch the hood down tight to your skull when you’re not wearing a helmet, and the short duck-bill peak does a great job at stopping rainwater from driving inside.

The zips on the Torre Egger have all been designed to be easily operable when wearing thick winter gloves. The long toggles are easy to grab, and the waterproof zips glide open and closed easily. Inside the jacket, there are also two large dump pockets for storing things like gloves, water bottles, snacks or, in my case, an Ordnance Survey map, which fits in the pockets perfectly. And while I can’t be sure these pockets were designed with the dimensions of an OS map in mind, the fact that one fits so well in these dump pockets was something I really appreciated when I had to keep pulling and packing away my map on a snowy Scottish Munro in January.

Fit

The cut of The North Face Torre Egger is reasonably athletic while still being technical in nature. It’s big enough that you can layer up underneath it but doesn’t flap around uncontrollably in the wind. 

Is it worth the price?

This is the million-dollar question. Is the Torre Egger Futurelight worth the 500+ price tag? Going into this test, I assumed there was no way it could be. But, coming out of it, the design considerations, the materials and the way this jacket can tangibly improve your experience of mountaineering in less-than-ideal conditions have changed my opinion to “it depends”. 

If you can afford it, I think you’ll be happy with what you get for your money. But if nearly $600 is a huge stretch for you, the marginal gains in performance versus jackets around the $300 - $350 market might not count much – nor might you be happy splurging so much cash on them. But if you’re looking for a versatile, comfortable and hard-wearing hardshell that will keep you safe on real mountaineering escapades, I don’t think you can go much wrong with the Torre Egger, and I can’t wait to get out in it again next winter.

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