Nathaniel Coleman and Drew Ruana against The Grand Illusion (8c +)

Since the fatal climbing accident on Kalymnos in the spring, route refurbishment on the Greek island has accelerated. According to the local initiative Rebolt Kalymnos, 383 routes have been completely re-equipped – with titanium instead of stainless steel.

With the Challenger 28, La Sportiva is entering a category previously unknown to the brand: technical backpacks. I took it with me for five days of touring, including trips to the Arête des Cosmiques and alpine climbing.

Whether in training or route setting, for climbing gym operators or amateur athletes: We have looked at some examples of how artificial intelligence is currently shaping climbing, what might come in the future and what advantages and risks are involved.

On a trip away from Bleu and Ticino, it's often just you and your project. No warm-up boulders and easy routes in sight. Professional climber Alexander Megos explained to us how best to prepare your fingers and body for such situations. He always keeps two things in his car for this purpose – a yoga mat and a fingerboard. Here he explains how he uses both.