Cal Seeley
Climbing Guide
Lyme, NHClimb well, have fun!
New England-based AMGA-trained guide with Alpine Endeavors for rock, ice and alpine climbing. In addition to climbing, Cal enjoys skiing, trail running, bushwhacking, canoeing and general tomfoolery.
Discipline: Outdoor Recreation
Specialty: Rock, Ice and Alpine Climbing
Studied Expeditionary Studies during college and has worked numerous jobs in the outdoor industry, most notably as a guide in the PNW and Northeast. Has completed several personal trips to places like Scotland, Peru, Argentina and the numerous nooks and crannies of the Northeast.
Cal Seeley's Expert Gear Recommendations
Trail Running Shoes
These shoes have been tested on some brutal New England trails...
- MAXx2 by VJ Shoes North America — I was gifted two pairs of the old generation MAXx2 and can confirm they are the best shoe for technical trails. A great scrambling shoe.
- Nike Zegama 2 by Nike — The first time I ran in these I felt like I was flying. My go-to gravel/two-track and light single track shoe. Slightly bigger size makes them comfortable for me, but I'm a little hesitant to take them on more technical trails.
- Timp 4 by Altra — I found a pair of Women's Timps in my size at a local consignment shop and I've been enjoying them on road/gravel. They are okay on trails, but MaxTrac has nothing on Vibram.
- Mutant by La Sportiva — A great sticky scrambling shoe. Runs quite well on technical trails. Was my go-to approach shoe for quite some time. Not super impressed with the durability, but a great shoe while it lasts.
Mountaineering Boots
Boots for snow/ice travel.
- ALPINE ICE GTX - LIME/BLACK by lowa online — Originally purchased when I was working on Mount Rainier, they have become my go-to ice and mixed boot. Super durable and stable. Front zipper is robust. Must keep up with waterproofing. I do wish it had a bit more insulation, but I did size down somewhat for a secure fit.
- ALPINE EXPERT II GTX - LIME/BLACK by lowa online — A great warm-weather mountaineering and ice climbing boot. Compare to La Sportiva Nepal. Lowa caters more friendlier to different shaped feet than La Sportiva or Scarpa, so if you have challenging feet, they are worth a try.
