Troll Outdoors

Troll has always maintained close links with active climbers. Over the years it reads like a who's who of the climbing world including names such as Don Whillans, Chris Bonnington, Doug Scott, Pete Boardman, Joe Tasker, Alex Macintyre, Kevin Thaw, Ron Fawcett, Pete Gomersall, Rowland Edwards, Bony Masson & Jibe Tribout. With the advent of the nineties, Troll sponsored Andy Perkins, now Dr.Andy Perkins, Ph.D., to study harnesses, slings and the effect of falls on climbing and industrial equipment. With Andy on the team, the first products to arrive from the Howard/Perkins partnership were Troll's Proform Harnesses in 1992 and the world's first Thermoform harness, with its innovative breathable mesh liner, soon followed. The Troll ABS buckle system, foolproof and easy to use for beginners, was also a product of this period. In 1995 crag rat and competition climber Graham Desroy complete with flowery shirts, white flares and surfboards joined the Troll sales team. Evidently the thought of working with Graham was too much for the founders who swiftly retired after 30 years in the hot seat. Alan is a keen sailor and now spends much of his time on his beloved boat. Paul is sill actively involved in the industry and still sits on the relevant BMC and European Standards Committees. Tony and his long time partner Di Taylor, then a member of Troll's design team, continue to spend their time exploring remote areas of the world. In 1999 Tony received a Geographical Award on behalf of Troll from the Royal Geographical Society for the design and supply of expedition equipment. Troll meanwhile progressed rapidly towards the millennium with top names joining the sponsor team including Adam Wainwright, Lucy Creamer, Neil Carson, Chris Cubitt, Dave Cuthbertson and notably Ian Vickers who became European Champion during his time with Troll. The link with all aspects of climbing styles was further strengthened by Troll's sponsorship of the British Indoor Climbing Championships (BICC). The modern real to the team became reflected in Troll's products both in the clothing and harness range. Troll became gear 'for real climbers'. Important developments include the remarkable Exoform range of thermoformed harnesses giving comfort at previously unheard of levels, coupled with the acclaimed Tie Dee tie in system, to centre waist pad and racking.