One of the most satisfying parts of my summer was introducing Andy and Sam from the Climbing Clan to leading trad.
Lead climbing Trad has so much learning around it.
It’s easy to assume that it’s a simple step up from seconding outdoor trad climbs, but in reality there’s a whole lot more to it.
The best way to know when you’re ready to start leading trad is to spend lots of days seconding and to lead as regularly as you can indoors. \n\nIt doesn’t matter about the grade of the climb, it matters about you repeatedly doing other things effectively whilst climbing (eg clipping or removing gear). Since just learning *the start* of how to trad climb easy single pitch routes takes about 2 evenings (with 1:2 ratio), I’m most focused on supporting members of the clan who’ll share their skills and routes with the group. — Andy and Sam both showed stoic enthusiasm to get out and up routes – in the dark, in poor conditions – they ticked off their first routes and brought their second up off safe belays.
A great start to their world of trad climbing with the clan!
Originally posted on this post on Instagram
