Rock Climbing, 2nd Edition: Mastering Basic Skills (Mountaineers Outdoor Experts)

Thousands of rock climbers have learned the sport using Craig Luebben’s seminal and bestselling text, Rock Climbing: Mastering Basic Skills. Now Craig’s friend and fellow climber Topher Donahue brings the content up to current standards and includes technological advances, while preserving Craig’s comprehensive approach. An award-winning climber in his own right, Topher uses his writing and photography skills to simplify the complex world of modern climbing technique and reveals the thought process behind safe and practical climbing methods.

This second edition includes European climbing techniques that offer alternatives to those traditionally taught in North America. Topher has also incorporated new lessons derived from accidents due, in part, to the increased popularity of climbing. Also found in this edition:

• Over 10,000 more words and 125 more photos
• Three never-before-published techniques: Adjustable Hitch, High Friction Tubes, and Bight Method
• Detailed technical updates throughout
• New distinction between “anchor” (a group of placements, pieces, or bolts used at the end of a pitch or for top rope or rappel setup) and “placement” or “piece” (individual cams, nuts, etc., used in groups to make an anchor or used individually as protection on a pitch)

Accomplished climbing guide, author, and photographer, Topher Donahue was, at age 14, one of the youngest American climbing guides in history. His climbing methods and philosophy evolved from his experiences with guides, climbers, and cultures across the globe. Topher lives in Nederland, Colorado. Visit him at www.topherdonahue.com and on Instagram at @Topher.Donahue.