Royal Robbins, rock climbing icon and founder of the eponymous outdoor clothing company, passed away at his Modesto, CA home on Tuesday “after a long illness,” according to the company website.
Robbins and his wife, Liz, founded Royal Robbins in 1968 as an active lifestyle apparel company for rock climbers, adventurers and travelers. He was a leading figure in the Golden Age of Yosemite Valley climbing and was one of the first and most vocal proponents of clean climbing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViwQShm8mfM
In 1967, Royal and Liz Robbins made the first ascent of Nutcracker in the Yosemite Valley using only removable nuts for protection. It was the first climb of its kind in the United States.
“He made a big mark on the industry and people that worked with him,” said Michael Millenacker, CEO of Royal Robbins. Millenacker, who worked for Robbins in the early years of the company, returned as CEO a few years ago. “His idea was just to totally lead by example,” Millenacker added.
The company that bears Robbins’s name stated, “His environmental advocacy and his love for adventure provide direction for everything we do. Royal was an inspiration to us all and will be greatly missed.”
Photo and video courtesy Royal Robbins
