Reader Reviews

Rating: 5 / 5

Although written primarily for individuals wishing to move light and fast in alpine summit pursuits, Mark Twight's book Extreme Alpinism published by The Mountaineers contains methodology easily applicable to ultralight backpacking, thru-hiking, winter camping and more.

Granted a good portion of the book is devoted to the particulars of climbing gear but the layout is such that one can read only the chapters and sections that pertain to them.

The book discusses many aspects of physical pursuits which pertain very closely to backpacking. These include lightweight gear selection, dietary recommendations, training and fitness regiments and mental preparedness.

The term alpine style is used in the world of mountaineering to describe an individual or group of climbers pursuing a peak or route objective using the minimal amount of gear. This often means moving very fast and going light. Although I don't believeif Twight coined this term himself he does specifically point out that this term can and should be applied to other genres of physical pursuit. I have seen Demetri (Coup) Coupounas quoted as attempting the Colorado Trail Alpine Style - meaning unsupported and unresupplied.

Extreme Alpinism is worth a read by individuals who have honed their gear lists down to what they think they need and are excited to learn more about other aspects of their trade which they may not have hone such as fitness and nutrition.

I rate Extreme Alpinism 5 of 5 stars for being succinct, accurate and utterly lacking in b.s.

Rating: 5 / 5

this is an incredible read. Get it for the epic stories alone. I often say "it could be worse" to encourage my spirits in hard conditions, and the stories really illustrate how true that is. the attitude taught in the book are very helpful in forming how I view my needs and desired comfort levels in the backcountry. these guys train for ultimate warfare, while I just go jogging here and there... definitely inspirational. the how to dress section is great where Twight bashes conventional layering techniques and tells his excellent "layering over" strategy. very very helpful for dressing right and keeping moving. this book is a must read for anyone with mountaineering aspirations, and has many helpful tips and concepts for the ultralight hiker and peak-bagger.

Rating: 5 / 5

This isn't a review, just a "nice to know." If you're interested in more on Mark Twight, including his essays and other writing check out http://www.gymjones.com/