Free Solo: The Extreme and Thrilling Climbing Genre

Soloing is a minority practice among climbers, and for most, it is just one part of their broader climbing experiences and achievements. Free soloing, in particular, is an extremely dangerous genre that involves climbing without any ropes or equipment, relying solely on hands and feet to scale steep and technical rock faces.

One notable example of free soloing is the iconic climb of El Capitan by Alex Honnold in 2017. The documentary 'Free Solo' chronicles Honnold's mission to achieve this historic feat and won the Academy Award for Best Documentary in 2018. This film brought national and international attention to the genre, introducing it to a wider audience.

However, free soloing is not limited to rock climbing. It can also refer to ropeless ice climbs or routes done in the Alps and Greater Ranges. In fact, John Bachar and Peter Croft are known for their soloist skills but also made history by being the first to climb both El Capitan and Half Dome in a day, which was considered a career highlight for both climbers.

Soloing can mean going alone with a rope, but free soloing means no rope at all. This requires an immense amount of skill, physical strength, and mental toughness. Climbers who practice free soloing must be extremely confident in their abilities and have a deep understanding of the terrain and weather conditions.

Free soloing is not for everyone, as it carries significant risks, including falls, injuries, or even death. However, for those who are passionate about climbing, free soloing can be an exhilarating and thrilling experience that allows them to push themselves to new heights.

In conclusion, free soloing is a niche but extreme form of climbing that requires skill, strength, and mental toughness. While it may not be for everyone, it has gained widespread attention through films like 'Free Solo' and continues to inspire and thrill climbers around the world.