Magazine

The Haute Route

For most people familiar with back country skiing, there is no more well-known ski tour than the Haute Route, connecting the iconic ski towns of Chamonix, France and Zermatt, Switzerland. Join us this spring for seven days of world class skiing in the Alps from the mighty Mont Blanc to the iconic Matterhorn. April 3-9, Skyward guide,…

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Kid Crushers On A Desert Classic

My oldest son, Chente (17), competes in indoor rock climbing. A few weeks ago, while on a mid-winter break, he needed to “take it easy” in anticipation of the Colorado High School State Championship Climbing Competition. I suggested we do something outdoors, since the weather was mild, though not anything too difficult so he could…

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Rope-de Dope!

I recently found a post on a guide’s forum I am part of with a question soliciting opinions on the best ropes for parties of three on multi-pitch rock climbs. While there were plenty of opinions and personal preferences towards one rope or another, often extolling the virtues of one and draw-backs of others, I…

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Crag To Summit

It is common now days to hear about “gym to crag” climbing courses to help those who primarily or exclusively climb indoors safely make the transition to climbing outdoors. After all, climbing at its core is an outdoor sport and that is what most indoor climbers aspire to do at some point. Climbing indoors has…

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Mastering the Vertical Realm: The Crucial Role of Breathing Techniques in Rock Climbing

Ever been exhorted with a firm “breathe!” from a belaying partner while navigating a tricky crux on the rock? Initially brushed off as trivial advice, the importance of controlled breathing in rock climbing becomes increasingly apparent upon closer examination. Beyond its fundamental role in oxygen supply, deliberate management of breath can profoundly impact climbers’ performance…

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