It starts the same way for most people who accumulate serious outdoor kit. A list. Then a gear spreadsheet. Then a smarter spreadsheet with formulas. Mine grew alongside the kit. …
Alpine Skills You Need Before Your First Glacier
The moment you step off a hiking trail onto a glacier or technical terrain, the alpine skills you need change completely. The ground moves differently, the consequences of a slip …
Lightweight Gear, Big Impact
A practical breakdown of the small, lightweight gear items that consistently make my mountaineering and backpacking trips easier, cleaner, and more comfortable. Tiny upgrades that truly punch above their weight.
Humility: When the Mountain Says No
Lessons in mountaineering humility: reflecting on a season of challenging climbs, difficult turnarounds, and the importance of carrying the mountain’s lessons home.
Where to Find the Best Outdoor Gear Deals in Europe
Finding good outdoor gear in Europe doesn’t have to mean paying full price. Here’s a practical guide to the best EU shops and smart ways to score real deals on hiking, climbing, and mountaineering gear.
Climbing Mont Blanc via the Goûter Route
A firsthand account of climbing Mont Blanc via the classic Goûter Route – from the hut-booking hustle to the rockfall-riddled Grand Couloir, sunrise on the Dôme du Goûter, and a solo summit on the roof of Western Europe. A demanding yet rewarding chapter in the Alpine 4000ers project.
Monte Rosa traverse: 8 Alpine 4000ers in 2 days
Eight Alpine 4000ers, one unforgettable traverse across the Monte Rosa Massif. From Punta Giordani to Signalkuppe and Lyskamm Orientale – a 2-day solo adventure through ice, wind, and pure mountain awe.
Outdoor Adventure Essentials – What You Really Need (and What You Don’t)
Most gear guides overcomplicate things. In reality, what you actually need for outdoor adventures comes down to a few smart choices – versatile basics, the right shoes, and only as much gear as your real adventures require. Here’s how to build a lighter, cheaper, and more sustainable setup that truly works.
Outdoor Gear Economics 101: How not to waste your money
Smart choices make light packs, longer adventures, and fuller wallets. Here’s how to think about outdoor gear spending – balancing quality, budget, and need. Plus, a free spreadsheet to help you manage your setup and appetite.