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Profiles
Will Gadd

Unknown

Will Gadd

Climber
Canadian·b. 1967·Website ↗
Known for:
Ice climbing pioneer; first to climb frozen Niagara Falls
Education:
Colorado College

Will Gadd is a Canadian ice climber, alpinist, and paraglider pilot who grew up in Jasper, Alberta after his family moved from Colorado when he was an infant. He has won ice climbing World Cups, three X Games gold medals, and multiple national titles across climbing, paragliding, and kayaking. In 2015, he became the first person to climb the frozen surface of Niagara Falls. He has explored ice caves beneath the Greenland ice sheet, climbed spray ice at Helmcken Falls, and set the world record for paragliding distance twice. National Geographic named him Adventurer of the Year, and the United Nations designated him a Mountain Hero for his climate change documentation work on Kilimanjaro's glaciers.

Will Gadd's Gear List(3)

Hydra Ice Tool

Black Diamond

Product description

Technical ice tool with a redesigned pick geometry and aggressive clearance for steep ice and mixed terrain. Aluminum shaft with a textured grip zone and pommel. The Will Gadd Edition features his signature engraving and pink colorway, with proceeds supporting the Mountain Muskox Mentorship Program. Released fall 2024 as Black Diamond's flagship ice climbing tool.

Connection note

Co-developed the Hydra with Black Diamond over 3 years; signature Will Gadd Edition exists. Says it is "the best new tool Black Diamond has released since the Cobra."
Source: Interview ↗
Phantom Tech HD

Scarpa

Product description

Lightweight mountaineering boot with a carbon fiber midsole, Outdry waterproof membrane, and Vibram sole. Weighs approximately 590g per boot (size 42). Compatible with fully automatic crampons. The HD update (2024) added improved insulation and revised liner. Designed for technical alpine, ice climbing, and ski mountaineering approaches.

Connection note

Active Scarpa athlete. His quote: "This is the boot I wanted 20 years ago... incredibly light, climbs on ice and rock really well."

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Last updated March 28, 2026

Source: Website ↗
Alpha IS Jacket

Arc'teryx

Product description

Insulated alpine shell combining GORE-TEX Pro waterproof-breathable outer with Coreloft Compact 80g synthetic insulation. Helmet-compatible StormHood, WaterTight front zip, and articulated patterning for climbing mobility. Built for alpine, ice, and expedition use where a single jacket replaces a separate shell and midlayer.

Connection note

Long-time Arc'teryx athlete since 2012; photographed ice climbing in the Alpha IS jacket.
Source: Website ↗