HOW TO FREE SOLO A BIG WALL WITH ALEX HONNOLD AND CEDAR WRIGHT

[@jakobbauz]

Alex climbing is probably one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.

[@CedarWright]

2nd only to my face right?

[@jakobbauz]

@@CedarWright :D Damn close.

[@jasonbeard3632]

Dude is breaking the limits of the game we call life. Truly hope Alex makes it alive by the end of his career, always such a terrifying watch. The utmost respect.

[@StrongerThanBigfoot]

He most likely will die at some point soloing however, he’s an adult knows the consequences and he if loves doing it then so be it. Things could be much worse like sitting at computer 9-5 just to pay off that bigger tv or new car you know

[@ChevisPreston]

There’s no retiring from this career. It’s highly probable he does this until the day he dies.

[@Youtubestolemyname99999]

yeah man one day you see a video like breaking alex honnold passed out while.... i think he needs to stop doing it he is inspirational and have a kid to grow it must be addicting i bet just like any other bad stuff needs to rethink everything at this point

[@MidnightatMidian]

@@StrongerThanBigfoot Actually he stopped soloing 2 years earlier. He's a father now.

[@dumbcrumb879]

@@MidnightatMidian He did a solo video with Magnus a few weeks ago lol

[@alexrichard486]

the title is so casual, I was not expecting to watch the actual solo footage. I figured this was a lead up to some other film, a behind the scenes of sorts. to me, this is one of the best solos I’ve seen honnold do, incredible. around 13:34, Alex’s “you good?” really hit me. the fact he’s in the midst of soloing 5.12, and still had the time and care to ask his friend if he’s mentally okay with what’s happening, is absolutely incredible. what a pleasure to watch

[@ZOROASTED]

I'd guess he is asking about filming.

[@Bumpkins802]

Yeah I agree, more about filming I think

[@Gardor]

yeah so strange, like why was this not recommended to me before

[@Gardor]

The video with magnus has like 10m views, if this was framed just a little bit differently it would easily have 10x the views.

[@18skeltor]

I don't think he's asking about filming, especially after the post climb interview where Cedar still seems fresh with shock. Alex is aware after doing this for so long of how other's empathy causes them to worry. Could be putting my own spin on it but after his doc I'm sure he's very very aware of that fact. It really is amazing the stark contrast between their demeanors. Everything is relative. Plus it wouldn't really make sense to ask about filming with a "you good" but I guess some masculine stoic dudes don't want to accept that as a possiblity :P

[@sketchy.wanderer]

13:31 Alex asking Cedar "You Good?" ... like dude you are the one without a rope .. lol

[@18skeltor]

Considering how tense I was watching, I completely understand. Alex is... something else.

[@elgueromeromero4277]

The music in this (especially the first half) is just * chef's kiss *

[@dingdingdingdiiiiing]

If I'd have to say what I've learned from Alex Honnold is that when you're in it, you want to basically only look at the one move ahead. The opposite would be thinking about the rock being a little slippery, the weather getting a little worse, you still have 100 meters to climb, you're getting to feel the pump and there is a crux coming up 50 meters ahead, then spiral into this thought process. Now think of this as a metaphor and you want to, for example, build a house. Think things through very well, but then when you're doing it, just think about one single step at a time.

[@stimrep]

fantastic content, thanks Cedar. You have a way of making the perfect hybrid of casual fun vlog style content and intentionally produced/directed shots. When the music came in to accompany the soloing vibe, it was a subtle and great transition in mood

[@CedarWright]

High praise! Thanks for watching 🙏 👊

[@tsluiter4]

@@CedarWright like a loving and cynical home video, thanks cedar.

[@mriforgiate]

What a fatnastic video@@CedarWright ! I remember watching this solo years ago, but I got excited when I saw in my feed that you just released this footage! Loved hearing your perspective on it all, during the process.

[@charlescoult]

12:45 - it's like watching an expertly choreographed ballet. There are no words.

[@charlescoult]

The peace and calm required to climb with that kind of exposure. Easy for him I'm sure but I'd be scared shitless.

[@trevorjtorres]

Love this! Alex seems euphoric post solo, reminds me of good nights lol. His climbing was perfect, historic solo

[@Govanification]

10:46 to hear you two exchange a "climbing" and "climb on" but then the video fades in and Alex is just casually soloing halfway up the wall... you pulled a fast one on us, Cedar! Good one.

[@xAnonXoXmysTx]

Blows my mind how casual they both are about just hanging off the side of a mountain. I will never do anything like that as the fear of falling is far to strong for me but it is remarkable to watch.

[@Meathamski]

This guy climbs a mountain better than I walk through a field.

[@PhillipChalabi]

I love all the fun you pick at Alex while he is figuring stuff out. You are a damn good friend to help him do something many others would say was insanity.

[@jonkrause6714]

Epic and raw experience - thank you, Cedar. A little nervous a little excited” 😲 “Just practice”. Insane. Puckered so many times. Awesome camera angles and perspectives.

[@jonnypeatersons]

The spooky music choices are perfection

[@kathyjackson3751]

This was amazing. Alex is practically a mountain goat. He is so technical and focused. Great film

[@LiValenz11]

i missed this dynamic duo!

[@BrentWSpeed]

This guy is just so elegant in everything he does, a true master of his class

[@scott_M14]

I can’t imagine the confidence it takes to do something like this. I can barely watch, I honestly have to skip some of the scenes. My palms sweat just watching. Even with a top rope I would be terrified to climb a wall like that.

[@qvash8517]

Just the strong drafts of wind is freaky. Live long Alex!

[@LarsLarsen77]

I've never gotten vertigo on a big wall, but I got it from watching these videos. Great work!

[@Barcelona0006]

This was awesome! Love seeing you two climbing together. This channel is really getting some gems on it!

[@CedarWright]

Appreciate that!

[@NicolasAndreSamp]

I love the familiar and friendly atmosphere that this video transmits. It is as if you were my friends and we were all hanging out and enjoying together. Thank you Cedar

[@nateb-runs5053]

you sound pretty lamelin dookie pookie.. no thanks

[@AX1A]

Alex, if you read this, thank you for MF the inspiration bro. Everytime you send a wall I feel stronger to press upwards, towards summits of my own

[@GettingNegative]

Thanks Cedar! You’re a beast in your own right and the insight into your beast infested world is awesome.

[@CedarWright]

Woohoo!!!

[@richardmcdowell534]

Alex Hannold is a freak of nature. He is like Secretariat was for horse racing. He is just plain way out in front of everyone else. Amazing to watch.

[@zachary8989]

How does this not have way more views? Great content, great insight, great views and doesn’t mess with the nonsense drama

[@chris_nunley]

When Alex starts soloing and that song plays, just perfect

[@ImagesbyJohnSmith]

Super simple narration makes a great story. Way to go Cedar! And you as well Alex. Stay alive forever.

[@ninrich7681]

When you look at all the different pro climbers, Cedar is such an exceptional figure. I think that of the many bad ass climbers, he would certainly be one of the most interesting personalities to do a film on. Amazing video, thank you!

[@savianczerny3843]

Loved this Cedar!! So fun to see the other side of the story that isn’t so over produced and flawless. Your scenes are intentional and really capture an insane (yet casual?!) experience

[@financialfraternity]

Light hearted seriousness. Alex honnold should be someone we all aspire to be

[@azov24602]

Such a good behind the scenes look at this experience. Thanks Cedar!

[@origin32]

Very glad you put this together and shared..... 😁

[@catiemonteiro7283]

Classic. Always love your films Cedar

[@lucasboyd5876]

So sick a great addition to the short film on Alex’s solo of sendero

[@marcoquack3387]

That's great staff! Thank you for sharing. Alex's solo is just nerve-wracking and mind-blowing as always.

[@ricardobecerril1783]

Damn , free solo 5.12 , what a boss. Alex you are the reason why I climb . You made it look so perfect. Ha it was the most difficult thing ever. Super inspirational is what you are. Living life to the limits. Damn sweating palms and everything else. What a boss!

[@sonortubelug3853]

Thanks for the 'how to' vid. Will be trying this after the bar tonight.

[@petercaro384]

This is brilliant thanks for sharing.The north face film was fantastic but way too short.You captured some magic here Cedar.

[@everettburgin9958]

Super raw but at the same time a great production! Awesome job, Cedar!

[@stretch8390]

That shot at 27 seconds is stunning!

[@ardenritzel4052]

I am always blown away by how simple he makes it seem. Not many Professional climbers couldn’t do this. Maybe 1% could possibly achieve the level he’s at.

[@nrosen8794]

1% is a little high. There are many excellent climbers. And then there is Honnold.

[@carterhicks7441]

Amazing cinematography, thank you so much for this video.

[@TattooedGranny]

Nicely filmed. Alex was badass as always.

[@moonsynth]

Thanks for this film, Cedar! I love the casual banter, so funny. When juxtaposed with the serious soloing, it's an emotional thrill ride, love it! I loved the Fledglings also, hope to see some more paragliding storytelling!

[@Bigfishcoffee]

Nice little end scene talking about the climb beside a white cross

[@diegosk8bt]

always wanted to see more of this free solo. Thank you so much, this was fantastic to watch!

[@farawayskies]

Not that Hannold isn’t a funny guy with great sense of humor, but I have definitely never laughed this much in a Hannold video. You guys are an excellent duo. He was well met!

[@declaredjeans7555]

Thanks Cedar!! I've been wanting to see this behind the scenes for years! Thank you!!!

[@jahwingding3711]

I'm so envious of the friendship you two have. Thanks for sharing and keep crushing!!

[@travisdavidson2415]

The commentary is so good. So casual about soloing a near vertical cliff. Been considering rock climbing for some time now. I think it would be a lot of fun, and a challenging experience. Don't think I'll be free soloing. Awesome content. You're music choices were great as well. I could feel the tension building, and my anxiety rising. Even though I knew he would make it.

[@marcuslinton310]

Rock climbing is amazing, but it requires dedication for sure. Up to 5.6 in to some 5.7's you can typically start climbing there even as a new climber. Once you hit 5.8, it starts to take more technique and just increases from there to where you start needing plenty of strength and technique.

[@Pangea_RPE]

Not to be a partypooper but you shouldnt consider free soloing until a few years of climbing experience. Dont be a statistic.

[@marcuslinton310]

@@Pangea_RPE He straight up said "Don't think I'll be free soloing"

[@VincentChiu]

Hi Cedar, I always loved your original film of this, so it's such a wonderful surprise to get more great footage so many years later! Thanks 🙏

[@cscha101]

This background music is HILARIOUS! Loving it. Thank you, Cedar! You’re such an inspiration 👍😊

[@redelfshotthefood8213]

OMG. The last two sentences amped my nerves up to 11. A reminder of the stakes. And then a calming wave of “Alex has got this”. (Alex, as though I know him... but he has such a friendly vibe... you do feel you know and trust him.)

[@sixstringtherapy5038]

As someone who has never climbed before, I'm sitting here anxiety riddled. Like I'm in danger of falling off a rock wall. And I've never been really scared of heights. Not that this is remotely the same as what you are doing. But ive ran on roof framing of multiple story houses I've worked on building when I was first starting out working. I've also worked on towers 150 to 200 feet up. None of that bothered me. But watching this, I feel second hand dread. I enjoyed it regardless. Been down a rock climbing rabbit hole the past couple weeks, and it's amazing what you all pull off.

[@FPFPV]

The original video of Alex's Sendero solo blew my mind for many years, I've watched it so many times. The top-down footage of him soloing the route makes your skin crawl, every single time. So cool to see this extended depth look now. Thanks!

[@FPFPV]

The end kinda caught me off guard, haha. No friggin idea how Alex can stay so calm on the wall, me falling off and tumbling to a horrible, painful death would be all I could think about in that moment.

[@livelyupmyself1]

Cedar’s personality is great for these kind of videos.

[@jeromelucani2449]

I don’t know if Alex is playing a game with his nonchalant attitude and getting a kick out the impact and terror it generates upon all of us mortals. At the same time if terror inhabited him he would freeze and/or shake on that cliff to his death… I would. Though I did free solo 20 feet (by accident! You know you do the first 10 feet like a dumass, not thinking and then your kind of stuck there with an up or down conundrum and rugged rocks at the bottom) and it was a near death experience for me that had me hug the rock like a Gecko. I survived by the skin of my teeth and the strength of pure fear. Definitely not the type of feelings Alex is showing here. Pure mastery. Though he did get his heartbeat up at the beginning… but from excitement he says! Come on Alex we need to know! Are you truly dancing like a ballerina in the hand of god, with pure faith in yourself and the universe or are you aware of your mortality in these moments?? Doesn’t fear come and visit you?

[@gilray1977]

At the end: "worst case scenario ? You fall off and trundle all the way down the wall...." GOLD !

[@charlescoult]

That was excellent. Shows Alex in his true colors

[@truthexplorer5600]

I can't think of anything more terrifying than filming someone else soloing ballsy af. Great footage and congrats on keeping it together and not loosing it.

[@stefanoesu426]

impressive and wonderful work Cedar! this is an almost ipnotic short documentary. i'd love to see more! thx and love from Italy

[@cameronbaird5658]

He even said it in the video, surely this is one of his best solos!

[@structuralclimbing5212]

This is incredible content, it keeps you tense and relaxed at the same time. Good work!

[@jenniferlenfestey5335]

I remember when this news broke 8 years ago and what an amazing feat it was then. I've always enjoyed your films Cedar and oft wonder how you get the shots, I also wonder, "Where's sufferfest III?" It's hard to see this terrain and not think of Brad though.

[@CedarWright]

Yeah... Brad is deeply missed.

[@peoples126]

MEGAAAA so much fun to follow along this peice of solo history with the both of you

[@ryanmcknight9999]

Cedar I love your work man - I remember when I first saw Honnold solo this years ago and at the time I wondered who went out with him to film it. After seeing the bond you guys have in the Sufferfests, I should've known it was you lol. You're awesome, keep it up. Definitely got a lifelong sub from me

[@oldi6btm6t9d4]

Finally, a comprehensive how to guide!!!

[@CedarWright]

😜

[@marcinspace]

Incredible footage Cedar, thank you and props to Alex on soloing Sendero. You are walking such a fine line my friend but that thin line gives a sort of feeling like no other

[@ColeHennies]

I was just in El Potrero this January for my 2nd time. This place always amazes me with the quality of the climbing and the community as well. Great video Cedar!

[@terranhealer]

Definitely agree! I dream of going back

[@aldenator101]

The edited footage is spectacular but something about that unedited raw footage is 🤯 like how it’s just laughs and smiles at the top like it’s nbd

[@robertkerner4833]

Impressive camera work. Climbing too I can’t imagine the psychological burden of filming your friend ropeless and vulnerable like that. You two have a special bond.

[@theoutsider6191]

Honnold never gets less impressive no matter how many of these climbs you watch of his. First saw him at it with Free Solo, and that just blew me away. Never thought anyone would do something like that. But then, almost nobody will ever repeat this example either 🙂

[@TheOtherBradBird]

Y'all having these lovely friendly conversations perched at the precipice of the abyss meanwhile watching I feel that I need to lie down & grab ahold of the ground with both hands.

[@MindRiderFPV]

Alex flows up, my hands sweat. Every time. Amazing human.

[@motolitho1]

What a great edit. I could actually feel the swirling barfy uncertainty.

[@BojanKordic]

I will never understand how is this doable ?! 😱😱😱Alex is super chill like always! Loved the video! Awesome content man

[@haon6695]

Great video. You guys make it look so easy...

[@MAKB12345]

When I stood on the summit pillar of Sendero I looked up at the few hundred remaining feet of cactus covered choss and wondered if Alex actually topped out el Toro or just rapped from the summit pillar. It was cool to see the full story! Also, you must have a sick stockpile of footy if you just "forgot" about this! You should post up some more! I'd really love to see that 600 foot whipper in Crimea again. Is it already uploaded somewhere?

[@Mistic00727]

Commenting just incase that Crimea question is answered

[@SpartaSpartan117]

Hol' up...a how many feet whipper...wtf

[@samcardoen2264]

The commentary makes it extra hilarious (while obviously very impressive). Great job!

[@argonaut4981]

i really like seeing you and Alex's climbing of this beautiful, yet seemingly cactii filled mountain, as well as other free solo stuff. Thankyou for filming and uploading this.

[@enjoiposer]

really, really good documentation of an incredible experience. thank you

[@ElunearaStarsong]

Amazing. Thank you, Cedar! 🙏😃💛

[@colinthompson5881]

Cool insight seeing you climb and have fun, cheers gents

[@malachidavenport1979]

Cedar great job! Alex doesn’t like to talk that much even after he became king of the world so it’s good to have you there for the fun parts

[@cannonballairsoft9944]

Amazing moment... fantastic video

[@littleviolagirl]

I'm not even a climber but I so love your style of filming and incorporation of humour! Have been following since Fledglings!

[@harismichail2]

Holy crap this may be the best movie of Honnold climbing uninterrupted

[@camilocarrillo2132]

the realness of the raw material felt a lot like watching a friend at the brink of death.

[@TheJustthedoctor12]

I've been watching so many climbing videos, and they all make these crazy routes look so doable. Then I actually take a close look at what they're climbing and I'm astonished. Those holds are so tiny! And he doesn't even use a rope? Absolute insanity.

[@dylansmith4046]

God Alex is a national treasure I really hope he doesn’t die one day on random bad hold. I love watching him climb but you just don’t know if something people have climbed a thousand times is gonna be that one time he unfortunately grabs it and it breaks.

[@devil_pls]

Thank you for Uploading this Gem

[@TheValinov]

hey! you are the guy from the ancient czech tower jumping video. nice to see you are still alive and crushing it.

[@dylanthomas2457]

This is great. Thank you for putting this out in the ether!

[@thombstones]

Holy poop! You two are bonkers. Love it :D

[@frgmnt7313]

I now have a new fear of being stranded on top of a mountain like that. The rocks/path at the top that you guys were traversing on at the end look super sketchy. I don't climb so if I were there, I'd probably just freeze up, and slowly wither away to my death. I love the video and the casual commentary throughout.

[@AllTorque]

Came here from Magnus video! Absolutely loved your banter and personality on that climb. Subscribed and going to enjoy watching some of your content!!

[@jordanmuscatelli1977]

LOL it’s so funny when Alex finishes something crazy like that so nonchalantly!

[@triple_gem_shining]

that "crux" was intense. his ability to find spots to hang onto is unmatched! Alex!!!!! we love you so much man. THANK YOU CEDAR.. ps sorry if i used that wrong crux incorreclty, im not a climber. just a fan