The high-stakes evolution of climbing without a safety net
In short: Free soloing—scaling vertical rock faces with no ropes or harnesses—is as old as the sport itself. This video traces its journey from 18th-century alpine feats to the modern era of extreme athletic achievement.
Despite its ancient roots, a documented instance of free soloing took place during 1786 atop France's Aiguille du Dru mountain. The sport remained relatively obscure until the late 1950s, when it gained global prominence through the daring exploits of Alain Robert.
Robert, a Frenchman, became a pioneer by completing some of the world's most difficult solo climbs, capturing international attention and inspiring a new generation of climbers to test their physical and mental limits.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: History Of Free Solo Climbing
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