Alpinists Maud Vanpoulle and Tom Lafaille on a rock climb

    Vertical Spirits

    Alpinist and researcher Maud Vanpoulle teams up with fellow alpinist and extreme skier Tom Lafaille on a journey of self-reflection that takes them to the heart of the Mont Blanc massif.

    Risk and Reward

    In the seventh episode of Breaking Trails, renowned alpinists Maud Vanpoulle and Tom Lafaille reflect on their personal journeys to finding purpose in the mountains, and how they navigate the risk and reward of pushing their limits in extreme environments.

    Maud Vanpoulle

    One of the world’s most experienced alpinists, Maud feels most at home in the mountains —whether in Vallorcine, where she’s currently based, or on foreign expeditions. Maud is also a researcher in social sciences of sport, giving her a unique perspective on the human side of mountaineering.

    Tom Lafaille

    Descending from a long lineage of alpinists, Tom became the youngest mountain guide in history at the age of 21. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his extreme skiing exploits, including the first French ski descent of Broad Peak—a feat achieved without the use of supplementary oxygen.

    Scenic view of the sunsetting over the snowy mountains, with Maud and Tom walking on a long flat area

    Vertical Spirits

    Alpinists Maud Vanpoulle & Tom Lafaille swap stories of loss and resilience atop Mont Blanc massif.

    Explore the Film Series
    Two runners going up a rocky incline

    The Paths to Gongga

    Geng Rang Ya Ba & Zheng Junyue

    Sichuanese runners Geng Rang Ya Ba and Zheng Junyue find solace in Mount Gongga’s epic foothills.

    Josh Mock and Aum Gahndi hug after a run

    Love and Legacy

    Aum Gandhi & Josh Mock

    Aum Gandhi and Josh Mock reflect on their inspiring journeys during a cross-city run.

    Taro Tamai & Mami Tezuka walking up a snowy mountainside

    In a World of Snow

    Taro Tamai & Mami Tezuka

    Snowboarder Taro Tamai and skater Mami Tezuka find common ground on Hokkaido’s backcountry slopes.

    Adam Campbell and Sandy Ward backcountry skiing

    Lessons from the Land

    Adam Campbell & Sandy Ward

    Mountain athlete Adam Campbell and splitboard guide Sandy Ward form a bond in Canada’s backcountry.

    Gore-tex Newsletter