Crack Climbing – Mastering the skills and techniques

The ability to climb cracks is at the core of a climber’s craft. Crack
Climbing by Pete Whittaker provides a single point of reference for all crack
climbing techniques, regardless of the grade you climb.

Pete is widely regarded as one of the best crack climbers in the world, having
made dozens of cutting-edge first ascents and hard repeats, including the
first ascent of Century Crack (5.14b) in Canyonlands, Utah. In this book, Pete
has drawn on years of experience to demonstrate the many different techniques
and to give you an understanding of when, why and how to use them. Develop
these skills with confidence and your climbing standard will improve.

The book is split into easily accessible sections on techniques for different
widths of cracks, including finger cracks, hand and fist cracks, offwidth
cracks and chimneys. Pete looks at the basics, including the hand jam – the
essential technique in any crack climber’s repertoire – right through to
advanced techniques such as the sidewinder and the trout tickler. Step-by-step
practical information and how-tos are supplemented with tips and tricks from
Pete alongside illustrations by Alex Poyzer and photographs. Additional
chapters cover how to tape up, as well as essential gear and equipment.

Pete has also interviewed some of the world’s top crack climbers so that you
can learn from the best. Gain insights from Lynn Hill, Alex Honnold, Barbara
Zangerl, Peter Croft and more. Master the craft and advance your climbing.
It’s time to jam!