Naked Rambler To Tackle Everest

A scoop OUTDOORSmagic exclusive with the hot - ahem - news that the Naked Rambler is to take his campaign for nekkid walking rights to the world's highest mountain this autumn.

Sources within the industry tell us that the Naked Rambler - who completed a naked Land's End to John o'Groats trek in January last year and was voted the OUTDOORSmagic Member Awards 'Outdoor Personality of the Year' is planning to tackle Everest as the latest step in his campaign to raise the profile of nude rambling.

The low temperatures and high UV levels encountered on Everest together with local Nepali customs mean that he will be unable to be naked at all times for obvious reasons, however the plan is to climb unclothed where possible, to sleep naked inside his tent and, should he summit successfully, to be pictured naked on the roof of the world.

Manchester-based Mountain Equipment, which has a long tradition of outfitting Everest expeditioners will be providing specialist equipment for the attempt. A custom-made down sleeping bag with extra filling in strategic areas will allow comfortable naked sleeping, while a 'Full Monty'-style, quickly removable down suit with Velcro-attached seams will facilitate rapid removable and replacement of clothing where appropriate.

"Mountain Equipment is pleased to be associated with this pioneering first naked attempt on Everest,' commented ME's marketing manager Mark Clifford. 'We trust that our unparalleled reputation for providing quality protection against the elements will be enough to preserve the naked rambler's integrity in the face of severe conditions and we will be working closely with him to produce the specialist equipment required.'

We'll be uncovering more of the story when we can, but in the mean time watch this space.