82 peaks in 19 days

Kilian on Strava

NNormal on Strava

The project of his life

Kilian Jornet has linked all 82 of the Alps’ 4,000-meter peaks in 19 days without using motorized vehicles. The project is one of Kilian’s biggest challenges due to the exposure, technical difficulty, and focus it requires.

In a hybrid combination of trail running, mountaineering, climbing, and cycling, Kilian Jornet has brought together everything he is passionate about in this project: the majesty of the mountains, facing the unknown, honoring alpinism and his mentors, physiological research, and the pursuit of physical and mental limits, all shared with friends and the community.

Starting at Piz Bernina (4,049 m) in Switzerland and finishing at Barre des Écrins (4,102 m) in France, Kilian pushed his physical and mental limits in a demonstration of technique, planning, precision, and adaptation that is difficult to comprehend for those who have never faced alpine linkups. Along the way, Kilian climbed some of the most iconic mountains in the Alps, such as Monte Rosa (4,634 m), the Matterhorn (4,478 m), and the highest of them all, Mont Blanc (4,808 m).

When Kilian started in the village of Saint Moritz in Switzerland on August 13, he did not know how far he could go. His goal was to link all the summits, but he decided to take it day by day. This is what led him to structure the project into stages, allowing him to manage them physically, mentally, and logistically.

Kilian’s passion for science and scientific knowledge also led him to rigorously monitor and measure various physical parameters, which, once analyzed, will help better understand the body’s reactions in situations like those Kilian experienced and use the data for future studies.

“I think it’s one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done, both physically and technically, as well as mentally. Having to stay in a state of total concentration for 19 days requires a lot of energy, but it has been amazing.”

Kilian Jornet

The Kilian Jornet Foundation has also played an important role in this huge project. The Alps are one prime example which showcase the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation, so the Alpine Connections project is also a way to create consciousness and consider our role in this transformation.

During Kilian’s journey, the foundation has collaborated with several experts in subjects such as glaciers, permafrost, mountaineering and air pollution, to help provide information about the effects of climate change and the degradation of natural resources, something that Kilian has experienced firsthand.

Thanks to this collaboration with researchers and organizations, the Kilian Jornet Foundation has developed an interactive map: a rich hub of scientific knowledge for the Alpine region. This resource unites various initiatives and highlights key areas where science plays a crucial role in understanding the changes affecting the Alps.

During this intense journey, Kilian has noticed once again that protecting the unique ecosystems of the Alps ensures that future generations can continue to test their limits in these inspiring landscapes, as he has done during the last 19 days.

During Alpine Connections, Kilian has faced countless challenges across various terrains and weather conditions. These challenges required him to adjust his planned routes daily and prepare for the unexpected.

Undoubtedly, the gear he used played a crucial role in this adventure. When Kilian explores the mountains, he enjoys nature and respects it deeply. That’s why durable gear has been extremely important to him: the longer his sports equipment lasts, the more he avoids overconsumption. Moreover, the construction of the NNormal Tomir 2.0 has helped him navigate the most technical terrains he has ever encountered, such as rocky paths and exposed ridges. This shoe is durable, cushioned, and extremely stable, making it ideal for tough conditions.

Additionally, Kilian has been testing some prototypes such as the NNormal Tomir Waterproof, along with pieces like the NNormal Active Jacket, or the NNormal Tights and Long sleeves that will be available really soon.