Simple question? Let's hear answers from 3 people who should know:
Peter Bakwin - Co-Founder; 26 FKTs (9th overall)
Marcy Beard - 32 FKTs (4th overall)
Jason Hardrath - 82 FKTs (going for 100!)
Peter:
• The route resonates with you - personal expression.
• Do the homework - practice on it
• If it's a new route, convince us why others will want to do it
• Consider what might go wrong - then be flexible when something else does
"Training is the fun part."
Marcy:
• Select the route - using the FKT website for distance, vert, difficulty
• Is the route cool - is it something that calls to me?
• Study and bring maps - get every detail right in advance, including scouting
• Lifestyle - move our home to where we want to be, and go for the FKT when the time and weather are optimal
"The Garmin Mini is great - it pairs with my phone so I can send texts from anywhere."
Jason:
• Do the research
• Should be a route that is attractive for others; not just something nobody has done yet
• Should fit your skill-set and aptitude
• Commit to it, and respect what it requires
"You want a route that demands respect; not a route that you can just show up, and nothing bad can happen."