Text books

Here are a few recommended text books for those wanting to develop their outdoor skills and knowledge - they are all available from escape2.

Mountain Craft & Leadership Eric Langmuir £14.99
An excellent introduction to mountain skills and group leadership, compiled and approved by the Mountain Leader Training Boards of Great Britain and Northern Island. Subjects covered include mountain weather, navigation, first aid, river crossing, campcraft, nutrition, basic winter hillwalking skills, and more.

The Complete Guide To Rope Techniques Nigel Shepherd £9.99
A very handy (pocket sized) book covering all aspects of rope technique (from basic knots and belaying methods to abseiling, snow, rock and ice anchors, escaping the system, glacier travel, and crevasse rescue), making it ideal for beginner and expert climbers alike. Now also contains skills for those undertaking SPA and MIA.

The Mountain Skills Training Handbook Pete Hill & Stuart Johnston £18.99
A complete and very up-to-date guide to summer and winter mountaineering techniques, written by two of the UK's most active instructors and mountaineers. The clearly shown techniques, methods and tips have derived from the author's own experiences of delivering quality instruction at the highest level. Recommended by the AMI (Association of Mountaineering Instructors). Although largely aimed at instructors, this book is also invaluable for enthusiasts who wish to learn a core selection of up-to-date and proven techniques, rather than the sometimes baffling range of superfluous techniques illustrated in some text books.

The Climbing Handbook £30.00
A very comprehensive, 'mini-encyclopaedia' covering the equipment, skills and techniques for all aspects of climbing including indoor, sport, single pitch, multi pitch, winter, alpine and much more - quite possibly the only climbing manual you'll ever need.

Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue Andy Shelters £8.95
Highly recommended reading for every serious mountaineer and off-piste skier who operates in glacial terrain. Subjects covered include reading glaciers, crevasse rescue techniques, team travel, routefinding and expedition skills.

The Backpacker's Handbook Chris Townsend £18.99
A very comprehensive guide (invaluable for both beginners and experts alike) which covers all aspects of backpacking, including the latest information on clothing and equipment, all terrains and hiking styles, adventure travel, long-distance hiking and low-impact methods.

The BCU Canoeing Handbook £15.95
Over 28 nationally and internationally recognized experts have contributed to this guide, making it a unique compilation of facts, advice and guidance on all aspects of canoeing and kayaking (including white water, sea touring and surfing). Essential reading for those making their way through the BCU (British Canoe Union) Coaching Awards Scheme.

[ Return to Advice ] [ escape2 home ]