Via Ferrata/Iron Way: Everything you need to know

Five videos, five topics: the complete ‘SicherAmBerg – Via Ferrata/Iron Way’ series from the Alpine Club and Climbers Paradise – with all the articles to read.
Via Ferrata/Iron Way climbers on an alpine Via Ferrata/Iron Way with a view of the summit
Via Ferrata/Iron Way climbers on an alpine Via Ferrata/Iron Way with a view of the summit

A clear explanation of what matters when it comes to wire rope

Find out exactly what matters: the ‘SicherAmBerg – Via Ferrata/Iron Way’ video series breaks down the five key topics that really matter on a Via Ferrata/Iron Way – from equipment to difficulty ratings.

Each chapter is available as a video and as a detailed article. If you’re new to tightrope walking, it’s best to work your way through them in order. If you have a specific question, jump straight to the relevant chapter.

Text and videos: Austrian Alpine Club · Production: Alpsolut

01 Equipment for Via Ferrata/Iron Way

Harness, via ferrata set, helmet, gloves, shoes: the safety kit is straightforward – there are just five items you must always take with you. What each one does and what to look out for when buying them.

Read the article:Equipment for Via Ferrata/Iron Way

01 Equipment for Via Ferrata/Iron Way – Video: Austrian Alpine Club

02 The via ferrata set

It doesn’t prevent a fall, but it does prevent a free fall. How a set is put together, why the sling fall arrestor is at its heart – and when the set should be taken out of service immediately.

Read the article:The via ferrata set

02 The via ferrata set – Video: Austrian Alpine Club

03 Itinerary planning

Route selection, current conditions, weather, group, equipment: five points that need to be clarified before setting off. After all, a Via Ferrata/Iron Way is also a giant lightning conductor.

Read the article:Route planning

03 Tour Planning – Video: Austrian Alpine Club

04 Out and about on the Via Ferrata/Iron Way

Partner check, climbing techniques, repositioning, spacing, overtaking: the most important manoeuvres and rules on the via ferrata – and why your arms should remain as straight as possible.

Read the article:Out and about on a Via Ferrata/Iron Way

04 On the Via Ferrata/Iron Way – Video: Austrian Alpine Club

05 Types and difficulties

Alpine or sport via ferrata? And what does ‘C’ actually mean? The grading scale from A to E, explained step by step – and why the overall difficulty matters.

Read the article:Types and difficulty levels

05 Types and Difficulties – Video: Austrian Alpine Club

Who’s behind it

The video series “SicherAmBerg – Via Ferrata/Iron Way” was created in collaboration between the Austrian Alpine Club and Climbers Paradise Tirol. It was produced by Alpsolut.

Packed with plenty of tips and a Code of Conduct for via ferrata climbing – explained in a clear and accessible way, with a touch of humour. Enjoy watching.

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