The key element for any brand of clipless pedals to hold the cleat retention, is keeping the rider's foot secure and preventing accidental release.

The first thing to check when experiencing shifting problems is the rear derailleur, and the first item to eyeball is the alignment of the outer cog with the lower idler pulley on the derailleur.

Are your brakes dragging? If so, here are the probable causes:

Knowing the technique of planting the ice-ax shaft to help guard yourself against falls while snow climbing is as important as knowing what to do if it occurs.

One mark of a skillful snow climber is the ability to go downhill efficiently and confidently.

In the event of a slip on snow, you must know how to regain control as quickly as possible.

If your party decides it would be safer overall to rope up, there are several different ways to match the type of rope protection to the conditions of the climb and the strengths of the climbers.

Anchors are needed in snow for the same reasons they are needed on rock.

Mountaineers read the snow surface and terrain features to determine a safe, efficient route.

The most common way for the belayer to tie in to the anchor is with the climbing rope itself, using the first few feet of rope as it comes from its tie-in at the belayer's harness.

Rope handling takes practice. When belaying the leader, never let the rope get taut, because that would impede the climber's next move.

Succinct voice commands allow climbers to communicate even when they can not see each other.

Most belay devices amplify the friction of the braking hand by passing the rope through an opening and wrapping it around a post.

The Munter hitch is a very effective method of using only the rope and a carabiner to provide the friction necessary to stop a fall.

Significant trade-off in risks must be considered when choosing a belay method.