The screaming barfies

From: Backcountry - Wednesday Jan 18,2023 01:25 am

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BackCountry

Crazy Or Captivating?

Some of the passions we chase can be simply described as “badass.” Honestly, name another sport where a case of “screaming barfies” is normal? There aren’t many activities out there more intense than ice climbing, and if intensity is what you’re after then consider climbing some waterfalls. Think you have what it takes?

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Ouray’s Ice Festival

Leaky pipes mixed with freezing temps almost always result in an expensive headache—almost always. In Ouray’s (pronounced YIR-AY) case, leaky pipes eventually led to the world’s largest man-made ice climbing park that’s totally free to use. The town’s history is almost as impressive as the 80-foot icicles in the Uncompahgre Gorge, but what we’re excited about is what’s to come.

Every January, Ouray puts on a show that attracts the best climbers around to compete on their frozen falls. If you’ve never ice climbed before and you want to try, attending the Ice Fest is a must. For 4 days, they’ll have clinics for beginners all the way up to pro-level competitions. Make sure to pick up the essentials before you go—here’s our list.

Ice Climbing Essentials

GEARHEAD'S FAVORITE GEAR

The Screaming Barfies

What happens when your hands are above your head in the cold for extended periods and then you suddenly put your hands down? The blood rushes to your hands, you scream, then barf (medically called tissue ischemia look it up). The barfies may not be the best part of ice climbing, but they’re proof of the sport's extreme intensity. Here are Gearhead Lindsay Weisgal’s 3 picks if you’re looking to test your mettle.

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Ice climbing can get wet, and while dry-treated ropes can withstand water, always be sure that your rope fully dries before storage. A rope tarp will also help keep your rope safe and last for years of sending on both ice and rock. Keep a rope journal so you can track large falls, note any wear, and record its length should you ever cut it. All this making you nervous? We’ve got more tips about when to replace ropes.

Ropes We’re Climbing

Sterling Aero 9.2 XEROS Rope

Edelrid Starling Protect Pro Dry Climbing Rope - 8.2mm

Beal Ice Line 8.1mm Rope

GOAT OF THE WEEK

By day Cam is an account manager who works closely with all of our partner brands. When he’s not on the phone with Mountain Hardwear or Black Diamond, he’s tearing it up in the Backcountry.

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“The faucet turned on back in November and no one is shutting it off! We are on track for one of the deepest winters since I’ve moved to Utah, and that means I am in the mountains whenever I’m not in the office. Here’s what I'm rocking this season.”

Dynastar M-Free 108 Ski - 2023

ATK Freeraider 14 Alpine Touring Binding - 2023

Lange XT3 Tour Pro Alpine Touring Boot - 2023

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JOIN THE HERD

Bourne For Backcountry

Emma Bourne started as a summer intern and had so much fun she decided to stick around.

“Moving westward has put me in the company of bigger mountains, deeper snow, and so many people who like to spend their time as I do—outside!” — Emma

Is Emma’s story ringing the right bells? Read the rest of her story below. And while you’re there, take a look at our openings. You might be the next member of our herd.

Read Emma’s Story

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