Warning Issued Against Climbing Welsh Mountains in Inappropriate Footwear
A recent survey has highlighted the risks faced by individuals who venture into the Welsh mountains ill-prepared, with a particular warning against climbing in impractical footwear like Crocs. Despite the alluring wintry scenes that can be found in Snowdonia, mountain conditions can swiftly become hazardous. Experienced climbers have recounted encountering unprepared individuals attempting the peaks in unsuitable gear. One climber expressed dismay at the sight of people in everyday fashion shoes and attire, with one person even donning Crocs and shorts. The lack of appropriate attire was evident when a few individuals slipped on the Llanberis Path, despite wearing decent footwear. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder that mountain climbing is no casual outing, as reported by North Wales Live.
The dangers of Wales’ mountains were underscored yet again following several incidents involving ill-equipped hikers navigating the peaks of Eryri. On Christmas Day, three walkers found themselves lost on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in the dark without torches, necessitating an emergency call to the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team. By the end of January, the volunteers had already responded to 18 callouts, with more cold weather still to come. The Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation (OVMRO) reported 19 incidents by February 18, many of which were deemed “avoidable”. A representative from OVMRO highlighted that a number of groups were relying on navigational apps without the capability to correlate digital maps with the actual terrain or blindly following tracks depicted on the apps.
In its 2024 annual review, Mountain Rescue England and Wales revealed that adverse weather ranked as only the third most common cause of callouts. Human error, lack of experience/familiarity, inclement weather, unfit participants, and poor visibility were cited as the primary contributing factors. Additional issues such as inadequate equipment, footwear, and communication exacerbated the risks. The OVMRO offered practical advice for those planning excursions in the Eryri mountains, emphasising the importance of carrying sufficient warm clothing, hot drinks, and food for potential extended stops or delays. They also advised assessing one’s skills and fitness level against the chosen route, suggesting early departures or opting for less challenging paths for those uncomfortable with navigating in darkness.
Three mountains within the National Park have been designated as some of Britain’s most perilous by BBC Countryfile. Yr Wyddfa, drawing approximately 750,000 visitors annually, houses the busiest Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) in Llanberis. In 2023, the team nearly reached its operational limits after responding to 309 callouts. Tryfan, a peak favoured for its rugged challenges and absence of marked paths, accounted for 28% of all OVMRO callouts in 2024. Crib Goch, known for its razor-sharp ridge on the Snowdon Horseshoe, presents climbers with daunting terrain and exposure to risks heightened by wind conditions. The intricate ridge requires climbers to maintain nerve and precision as they navigate the rocky terrain.
While the allure of Wales’ snow-capped mountains is undeniable, visitors must exercise caution and respect the unpredictable nature of the terrain. The emphasis on appropriate gear, navigation skills, and early starts is crucial to ensuring the safety of individuals exploring the peaks. The increased accessibility of popular mountains like Yr Wyddfa has drawn a diverse range of visitors, some of whom may lack the requisite hiking experience and preparedness. As the number of mountain incidents attributed to avoidable circumstances continues to rise, it is imperative for hikers to equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and equipment to mitigate risks and enjoy a safe mountain adventure.