Interview, Fireside Chat
The Risk, Fear, and Preparation Behind Free Solo
- Alex Honnold anticipates the climbing community is growing more risk-averse, with most athletes spending careers in controlled indoor gyms and free soloing unlikely to trigger a cascade of errors among unqualified individuals due to the requirement for intentional psychological preparation.
- Future climbers are predicted to reach significantly higher performance levels driven by new mega gyms, yet this progress is expected to shift the sport toward physical performance metrics rather than outdoor adventure, a trend accelerated by Olympic inclusion next year.
- Regarding professional climbing activities, Honnold views ice climbing as currently too risky unless guided, expects most rope-assisted El Cap attempts to fail after the first quarter due to equipment burdens, and foresees a need for future investments in home ownership and family life.
- The Honnold Foundation expects to launch its first open grant call this year to support larger scope projects, funded by increased capacity from a new film, while continuing to prioritize existing community organizations over international expansion into areas where the foundation lacks local management expertise.
- Specific logistical preparations expect the film crew to execute the solo climb filming with high precision following months of practice, while the foundation aims to maintain democratic access to climbing walls on public lands.