Melvin Claassen Profile Picture on the trail

Melvin Claassen

Based in the Netherlands, and an avid outdoorsman, mountain addict, and hiking enthusiast. When he isn’t hiking, Melvin is passionate about running, trail running, hitting the dirt on his mountain bike, and scaling rock faces. He has successfully climbed several peaks around the world, including Mt Taranaki and Pico Duarte. His deep-rooted passion for the outdoors and mountaineering helps inspire numerous people to hit the trails and fulfill their own adventurous spirit.

Essential Rope Skills & Knots for Mountaineering

Climbing rope in an unzipped rope bag

Just as you would never hit the slopes without the right boots, crampons, or your helmet, no mountaineer would ever dream of heading out without a climbing rope. (Sure, you can wear a climbing harness without one, but good luck…

Altitude Sickness Guide: Symptoms & Prevention

Mountain range that is covered in snow. The valley below that is at risk to avalanche is visible too.

You might have heard of it, or even seen a video or two about it featuring climbers in the Alps or the Himalayas, and yet, not really know what altitude sickness is. But what every responsible mountaineer needs to know…