#184 Connor Herson — The World’s Hardest (And Best?) Trad Climb, Proposing A New Grade, and Headlining The Mellow Tour

The Testpiece Podcast

The Testpiece Podcast
#184 Connor Herson — The World’s Hardest (And Best?) Trad Climb, Proposing A New Grade, and Headlining The Mellow Tour
Feb 23, 2026 Episode 200
The Testpiece Podcast

Connor Herson is back after an insane 3 years. Last week he proposed the world’s first 5.15 trad climb, “Drifter’s Escape,” a beautiful single pitch in Squamish that revolves around one of the best moves you could ask for on gear.

He also talks about balancing climbing professionally with completing his masters degree, lessons he’s learned from climbing with boulderers, and his philosophy of improving by climbing as much volume as he can without sacrificing difficulty.

Patreon Bonus Content (join Patreon for extended cut): 

  • A look into Connor’s approach to training
  • What makes him so strong on jams and locks?
  • Connor’s bouldering aspirations
  • Connor and the TB2


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