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Born:

2001, Inverness, Scotland

Biggest achievement:

Off the Wagon V14, Magic Wood, Switzerland

DMM athlete since:

2022

Rhys Langlands is a Scottish climber from Inverness with a lifelong passion for powerful, aggressive movement on rock. Introduced to climbing by his father Pete at the age of three, Rhys quickly showed extraordinary natural talent, making headlines at just 14 years old when he climbed The Force (8b) at Brin Rock in only five sessions. Since then he has gone on to become one of Scotland's most accomplished boulderers, with ascents up to 8B+ and a drive to push the standards of Scottish bouldering further than ever before. His ascent of Off the Wagon V14 in Switzerland placed him among only three Brits to have climbed the iconic line, a milestone he counts as one of his proudest achievements. With a degree in Sport and Fitness from the University of the Highlands and Islands and experience as both a coach and route setter, Rhys combines deep knowledge of training with a fierce competitive instinct and an ambition to put up Scotland's hardest ever boulder problems.

"Consistency is key. If you stick something out long enough, it will pay off." 

Get to know Rhys

When did you start climbing?

I've been climbing since I was 3 years old, introduced by my dad at the local climbing wall in Inverness. I've never wanted to be anything else since I started, and feel like I will always be a climber in some capacity.

What do you consider your most significant climbing achievement to date?

Climbing Off the Wagon, V14  in Switzerland still holds a lot of weight for me. Being among only 3 Brits, myself included, to climb this iconic line. Although people climb far hard these days, this one still has a special aura, and makes me proud to reflect upon.

What is the primary objective remaining on your bucket list?
Bouldering 8C. Scotland's hardest boulders are only 8B+ and I'd really like to break that plateau and put up Scotland's new hardest boulder problems in the next few years. I just have to find the right projects.

How would you describe your climbing style and your anti-style?

My preferred style is powerful, aggressive climbing on big moves and relatively good holds. My anti style has to be endurance 40-60 metre sport pitches. Only because I never train endurance I think.

How do you manage the mental pressure of a long-term project?

It's often helpful to take importance away from the climb. It's not a necessity, or life need and no-one will die if you don't climb it, or really care that much. It's just you, and climbing

What is the most valuable piece of climbing advice you have received?

If you can touch it, you can hold it.

Which crag or mountain is your favourite and which do you consider the most beautiful in the world?

The Torridon jumble, on a crisp cold, sunny February weekend. My happy place and one of the most beautiful places I've ever been.

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