EXPLANATION
WHAT IS A "VIA FERRATA"?
THE IRON WAY
WHAT IS A "VIA FERRATA"?
“Via Ferrata” is Italian and translates to “iron way”. The term is commonly used in the European Alps for a rock climbing route with a series of iron steps and a fixed steel rope that climbers can attach themselves to for safety. It allows anyone with a decent level of fitness to scale heights normally accessible only to experienced rock climbers. It is generally considered a low impact outdoor activity.
Suitability
Who can climb a Via Ferrata?
Via Ferrata routes cater to various skill levels, from beginners and hikers to experienced climbers, thanks to their built-in cables, rungs, and ladders. They offer a safe, exciting option for those comfortable with heights and possessing good fitness. Many routes are beginner-friendly, while others appeal to thrill-seekers and those with climbing experience. Family-friendly options exist, often suitable for children 10 and older if accompanied. Basic climbing knowledge and essential gear - helmet, harness, and lanyard - are necessary for all routes, providing a thrilling yet secure adventure in beautiful mountain settings.
Gear
WHAT equipment do you need?
To climb a Via Ferrata safely you need a helmet, a basic climbing harness and a lanyard with two leashes.
Via Ferrata lanyards are Y-shaped and consist of two carabiners connected to a textile shock absorber via two arms. If you fall, the shock absorber will deploy, absorbing the fall energy (impact energy) and dynamically slowing the fall.
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The concept
WHERE DOES THE VIA FERRATA CONCEPT COME FROM?
The first Via Ferratas were actually built in the European Alps in WW1 to access remote mountains and peaks. Some can still be used recreationally today. Since then more than 1000 of these routes were built and they have become very popular in the last couple of years, mainly in Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and France.
Peaks that were previously only accessible to the brave and skilful few, are now open to everyday people seeking challenge and adventure. It’s almost a mainstream outdoor activity in the European Alps today with people of all ages and abilities enjoying the sport.
EXTERNAL VIDEO
WATCH a clip
We found below video on Youtube. It is unrelated to our project but gives a good impression what a Via Ferrata is. We may replace this once we found the time to make a better, more local video :-)
