Hikers in the bra: South Tyrolean alpinist criticizes dangerous behavior!

Hikers in the bra: South Tyrolean alpinist criticizes dangerous behavior!

An exciting event in the mountains rekindled the discussion about security and correct equipment among mountain hikers. The experienced South Tyrolean alpinist Paolo Acler expresses his concern for risky behavior in a letter to “Il Dolomiti”, which he observed during a tour on Sasso Nero. Acler was well prepared with his group, equipped with ice ax, crampons and rope. To his surprise, however, he met numerous hikers who were not only inadequate, but also dressed in a hazard - many were in sneakers and partly in the bra.

Acler was particularly shaken by a scene at 2700 meters, in which a young woman descended in a bra and body over a scree field. When it comes to his humorous demand regarding a climbing belt, she replied that she wanted to sunbathe. Such experiences let Acler doubt his own security and that of the other hikers. He ironically described himself as a "dinosaurs" in the middle of this "new species" of mountainers.

Guidelines and necessities for safe hiking

The incidents that ACler describes contradict the principles of mountain hiking, which are recommended by the UIAA (International Alpinist and Mountaineer Association). Mountain hikers are often traveling in isolated and dangerous areas; Appropriate preparation is therefore of the greatest importance. Before a tour, the physical suitability and the forces of themselves and the companions, especially children, should be assessed precisely. Important requirements such as surefootedness and a head for height must be met.

A mountain tour should be planned carefully when studying maps and digital route planning. The height difference to be overcome is a decisive factor and not the route length. In addition, the alpine clubs demands adequates such as solid, high footwear, weatherproof clothing as well as a tour pharmacy, emergency ceiling and emergency catering.

The right equipment for mountain hikes

The starting conditions for mountain hikes are often challenging because they are located in difficult to access terrain. Therefore, the equipment carried is crucial for security. According to the expert opinions, hikers should familiarize themselves in advance with the handling of their equipment and coordinate them to specific weather conditions and conditions. The necessary basic equipment includes enough provisions, emergency equipment such as a first aid set and the necessary sun protection. Shooting also plays an important role, because it can prevent falls and stumbling and should be adequately selected to the respective tour.

However, Acler also noticed a positive aspect during his tour: in the Lovello-Trippbach valley he met a family whose children were correctly equipped. This observation gives him hope that there are still many responsible hikers. Nevertheless, the discussion about security and behavior when hiking in the mountains remains acute, which indicates that more information is necessary.

The alpine clubs and organizations emphasize the importance of security in the alpine space and encourage hikers to act responsibly. It is therefore important to take the basic behavior and equipment guidelines seriously in order to safely enjoy the breathtaking but also risky mountain landscapes.