The 2024 edition of the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy took place earlier this month, from the 4th of July to the 7th, amongst the mountains of Chamonix, France.

This annual event, known for bringing together hands-on workshops, expert-led clinics, and engaging social events, hosted outdoor enthusiasts, professional athletes, and industry leaders to celebrate and advance alpine skills and mountain safety.

This year's academy saw a record attendance, with over 650 participants from around the world. The group included climbers, mountaineers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, all keen to learn from some of the best in the field. With over 150 guides and 42 athletes in attendance, the Academy has become one of the top events of the calendar for both learning about, and celebrating, the mountains.

The core of the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy lies in its workshops and clinics. Designed to enhance participants' skills and knowledge, over 40 workshops were conducted, covering a wide range of topics including crevasse rescue, fast and light alpine climbing, ice climbing techniques, trail running, and glacier travel.

Over the weekend UKC staff were offered the opportunity to attend two advanced alpine clinics - 'Fast and Light', hosted by Max Kroneck, and 'Ice Climbing Techniques', led by Will Gadd. Both of these Arc'teryx athletes had a wealth of knowledge to share, having operated at the upper echelons of Alpine adventure. Spending time with people like Max and Will, it's hard not to be inspired - their enthusiasm is infectious, and the tips and tricks they have to offer are invaluable.

The Arc'teryx Alpine Academy was not all about advanced skills, however, and many clinics covered the fundamental basics of operating in the mountains, with crevasse rescue and general alpine climbing clinics being led by IFMGA mountain guides, providing in-depth training on techniques, as well as hands-on experience.

Beyond the high mountain environment clinics, the Academy offered a range of clinics on rock climbing, trail running, and trekking, as well as expert panels and presentations, offering deeper insights into different facets of alpine sports and environmental stewardship. Some highlights from the weekend were:

Climate Change and Alpine Environments - A thought-provoking discussion on the impacts of climate change on mountain ecosystems, featuring climate scientists and professional athletes, both educating the audience about sustainable practices, and advocating for the use of them.

Women in Climbing - This panel highlighted the achievements of female climbers, as well as the challenges they face, whilst fostering a supportive community and encouraging more women to pursue climbing. This session also provided insight into how athletes contribute to the design process of Arc'teryx products, particularly emphasizing the strong relationship between female athletes and female product designers for everything from harness design to clothing.

Gear Innovations - Arc'teryx product designers showcased the latest advancements in alpine gear, providing attendees with a glimpse into the future of outdoor equipment.

A defining feature of the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy is its emphasis on community. Social events, including evening gatherings at the Arc'teryx Alpine Village, provided ample opportunities for participants to connect, share experiences, and enjoy evening entertainment with a beer. The Alpine Village, located at Parc Couttet in the heart of Chamonix, served as the central hub for the event, offering gear hire via the 'Gear Library', a bouldering wall with free competitions and workshops running, and the ReBIRD^TM centre, an Arc'teryx program that is committed to sustainability through workshops on upcycling, resale, and repair.

With a rich blend of education, inspiration, and community building, the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy is a unique event. Participants left with enhanced skills, deeper knowledge, and a renewed passion for alpine pursuits. The event not only celebrated the spirit of adventure, but also reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship and inclusivity in the outdoor community.

As the Arc'teryx brand grows, it is fantastic to see this event grow alongside it each and every year. For anyone wanting to climb, run, or trek in the Alps, it's well worth looking out for next year's event.