Chelsea Rude

ABOUT ME:

Hi! I'm a climber and lover of the outdoors living in Nederland, Colorado. I love to experience the outdoors, whether it's through climbing, hiking, skiing (I'm learning), or simply just laying on the ground in the middle of an aspen grove. La Sportiva has supported my growth as a climber since I was a teenager and have always been the very best shoes on my feet, which has promoted confidence and instilled trust in what I do on the trails and on the rock.

PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

1. Climbing my hardest route to date, Waka Flocka, 5.14b, in Rifle.
2. 5.13c onsights across the world, including Encore (Ceuse), the Madness (Red River Gorge)
3. Hiked 31 miles for my 31st birthday, in one day, in the Indian Peaks
4. Founded She Sends Collective
5. Former National Champion + member of US Team for 13+ years.

Q+A:

Who is your favorite climbing partner?

My favorite climbing partners are friends who come forward with open and curious minds, push each other, support one another in our pursuits, and are good at failing.

What is your go-to hype song?

Too many to choose from!!

What was the first La Sportiva product you tried?

My very first pair of climbing shoes were LaSportiva Enduro's in 1998 

Which advocacy organizations do you support or belong to?

I'm the founder of She Sends Collective, an affinity organization aimed at diversifying climbing through quality education and community events. I also support Brown Girls Climb, American Alpine Club, Boulder Climbing Community, the Access Fund and Flatirons Climbing Counsel. 

APE INDEX:

I'm 5'4" and I have a -3.5 ape index (t-rex arms)

Bio photo: © Anne Struble | Banner photo: © Dean Ronzoni