The best rock climbers of today
Rock climbing is a notoriously varied sport, and could actually just be considered a cluster of different sports. You have the climbing of sheer rock faces with the help of supportive gear, meaning you can get higher than you otherwise would; then you have mountaineering which is the less steep option, but more about stamina and reach the summit of a mountain; and finally there’s bouldering which involves climbing small but incredible technical routes with no gear whatsoever. These different aspects of climbing are very unique and so require the honing of different skills, making the answer to the question ‘who are the best climbers in the world’ extremely difficult. But anyway, here is an attempt to answer just that question.
Chris Sharma is well known among climbers, and is widely considered to be the best climber in the USA. Supposedly he doesn’t even own a home, but just roams from climbing spot to climbing spot, tackling some of the most difficult and technical climbs in the world. There is a film about him called “King Lines” where you will get some idea of the kinds of risks this man takes. This guy wins his place both for his skill and his sheer dedication to the lifestyle.
Russell Brice is the CEO of the mountaineering guide company Himalayan Experience, but he is also one of the best climbers in the world, having conquered Mt Everest two times! He has also tackled the likes of Cho Oyo and Himal Chuli, and inspired the Discovery Channel to film him on one of his ascents up Mt Everest.
Another giant in the climbing world is Dean Potter. But it isn’t just climbing he does; when he reaches the top of a route that would turn away many experienced climbers, he turns around and jumps off, letting his parachute go only at the last minute (base jumping, it’s called). This man is also well known for his free climbing, where he climbs up dangerous technically demanding routes without any safety equipment whatsoever.
Josune Bereziartu is another big name, and is one of the most accomplished female climbers in the business. She grew up in Basque country in Spain and began climbing at the age of 17. She climbed Bain de Sang in 2002 which is the most difficult course climbed by any female ever, and she often tackles climbs that even the most experienced males wouldn’t go near.
If you’re into climbing, check out these great Mammut jackets.
