Climbing

Two‑way radios are more than nostalgic walkie‑talkies—they’re vital tools for backcountry safety. By keeping groups connected across rugged terrain, radios reduce risk, improve coordination, and add confidence to every adventure.

When you clip into a carabiner or rig an anchor in a canyon, you’re trusting your life to numbers stamped on gear. One of the most important is kN—kilonewtons. A kilonewton measures force, roughly equal to the weight of 100 kilograms, and it’s the standard by which climbing and canyoneering equipment is rated. Understanding kN isn’t just technical jargon—it’s the language of safety, helping adventurers gauge whether their gear can withstand the forces of a fall, anchor stress

Building a climbing rack is about balance—carrying enough gear to protect yourself without weighing down every move. A solid starter rack includes nuts, cams, alpine draws, and slings, while oversized or specialty pieces can wait until you know your local routes demand them. Racks come in all shapes and sizes, but the best one is the one that keeps you safe and efficient on the wall.

Rock climbing helmets aren’t just safety gear—they’re part of your climbing identity. From preventing accidents to boosting confidence and looking sharp in photos, helmets are essential for every climber. Learn why the best climbing helmets matter, how to choose the right fit, and why wearing one is the ultimate badge of adventure cred.

In the vertical world, knots are more than ropework—they’re lifelines. A knot must be clean, secure, and purpose-fit, because gravity doesn’t forgive sloppiness. The difference between a knot, a hitch, and a bend isn’t just technical—it’s practical. Knots stand alone, hitches rely on anchors, and bends unite ropes into one continuous line. Inspecting each tie-in means checking tails, symmetry, and tension, because a not neat knot is a knot not needed.

In the backcountry, risk is real and help is far away. Wilderness First Aid teaches hikers and climbers to stabilize injuries and manage emergencies, while Wilderness First Responder prepares leaders to care for patients over days and make critical evacuation decisions. These trainings build confidence, resilience, and a culture of safety that keeps adventure sustainable.

Checking the weather before any outdoor adventure isn’t optional—it’s essential. From safety to gear prep, weather awareness can make or break your experience.

Why researching new climbing areas without it is like crashing a potluck and asking, “So… what’s gluten-free?” Let’s be honest: climbing without beta is like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded, upside down, and with someone yelling “Just figure it out!” from across the gym. Sure, you might  get lucky. But odds are, you’ll end up pumped, confused, and muttering something about sandbagged grades and mystery cruxes. Beta—aka insider info—isn’t just helpful. It’s essentia