Mechanical Advantage Calculator

An online tool to calculate component forces in pulley systems

This tool has been set up to allow users to calculate the mechanical advantage of a pulley system, while taking into account friction of its various components.

Antarctica

Ski Touring Adventures on the Ice

As we made our first anchorage, our guide encouraged us to get our ski gear together quickly for a late afternoon ascent of Banco Island, and our first, warm-up ski in Antarctica.

Can a Tramper Climb Mt Cook?

What would it take for a tramper of average fitness to propel themselves to the top of New Zealand's highest summit?

Ball Pass Crossing

Why going guided won’t cramp on your style

A certain thrill comes with completing a trip you’ve eyed up for decades.

Above Worry Level

Mid-winter ascents of Elie de Beaumont and Mount Tasman

The seemingly endless fine weather pattern that planted itself over the country in mid-July didn’t take long to spark the inevitable in the mountaineering minds of my family.

Threshold

A Father and Daughter Ascent of Aoraki / Mount Cook

"What's that mountain up there, Dad?" "That's Mount Footstool." "It looks like a nice mountain." "Maybe we could climb it this summer, if you want." "Wow, that's such a big mountain.

Daring to be Lydia

Empowering women ski‑touring in New Zealand’s Southern Alps

Thirty years ago this October, something extraordinary happened.

Articles

Features and editorials about Alpine Recreation and our adventures.

Safety Research

Research on mountain guiding and mountaineering techniques.