Climbing champion scales new heights with Ford Explorer

Did you know that top rock climbers take large mattresses with them to help cushion any potential falls when climbing without ropes? Reigning Norwegian sports climbing champion, 22-year old Leo Ketil Bøe, could only squeeze two of them in his old car, but now other climbers look on enviously as he arrives at climbing sites with five of them stashed in his Ford Explorer.

Since winning a two-year loan of our Ford Explorer plug-in hybrid – by posting the fastest time in our challenge to climb the world’s highest free-standing climbing tower, OVER in Lillesand – Bøe has been testing more than just the huge interior space though.

Photo Credit: Theresa Wein @wein_theresa

The accomplished climber has spent several months in the Alps, taking the Explorer far off the beaten track across bad roads and rough terrain to reach the best spots. He then sleeps on top of it in a two-man roof tent from Thule at night. And his appreciation of the vehicle’s talents haven’t stopped there.

“After a long climbing career with many falls, my back is a bit sore from time to time. Then it’s extra nice to sit in the lovely driver’s seat that can be adjusted to my back perfectly."

Yet even that’s not his favourite thing about the luxurious Ford Explorer plug-in hybrid.

“I have to say the stereo system. The front seats are lovely – yes. The power in the car is absolutely extreme … but I’m totally addicted to music. That stereo is just so lovely. At the same time, what I like best is somewhat situational. If it is difficult to get all the way to the climbing site, music helps a little. Then it’s the different driving modes that I like the most.” 

Photo Credit: Theresa Wein @wein_theresa

With early mornings and evenings being the best times to climb as it avoids the dangers of heat and sweaty hands, Bøe spends the rest of the day moving from place to place in his quest to be the best.

“In order to develop further as a climber, it is important that I get to try new routes, with new types of rock and constantly hunt for new challenges. Just like the Explorer, I am built for adventure and challenges. We are made for each other and are completely unstoppable”.

Photo Credit: Theresa Wein @wein_theresa

Executive car parks or taking on family duties with ease may be where many of our Explorers are more often spotted, but Bøe is demonstrating that if you have high ambitions for adventure then it’s the perfect partner in climb. 

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