Forerunner
Right now, the spotlight shines brightly on the newest generation of competition climbers, but the path they’re following was blazed by those before them. Today, we talk with Alex Johnson, or AJ, who has ridden the highs and lows of professional climbing over the last 20 years. She won her first bouldering national competition at age 12 before going on to win two golds at Bouldering World Cups. Her career charts a fascinating shift in climbing culture, the comp circuit and the hurdles to being a professional climber.
Image: Susanica Tam
Chapter 04: The Invisible Cord
A physical and intellectual anomaly, John Gill’s vision for climbing would ultimately drive the sport’s athletic progression and help bring it to a larger audience. Also in this chapter, Alex and Nina Williams break down their shared respect for Bishop’s world class highballs.
Chapter 03: This Is How You Spell Climbing
Climbing’s first bonafide phenom, Chris Sharma ushered in a new chapter of athleticism.
Image: Boone Speed
Introducing Climbing Gold
Athletes. Risk takers. Dirtbags. Pioneers. Community builders. Outsiders. Leaders. Join us to hear the voices and stories of climbing’s past and future.