Climbing, Adventure and RCKMNKY Style

Meet Michael Hutchings, a passionate climber whose life revolves around conquering new heights and pushing his limits. For this post, we tracked him and had a great conversation about his daily routine, journey into the world of climbing, and his favorite climb. Additionally, we'll discover his go-to RCKMNKY look, which combines style and functionality for the ultimate climbing experience.

A Day in the Life of Michael Hutchings:

Every day starts with a familiar routine, whether I'm on the road or at our home base in Las Vegas. The first thing on my agenda is breakfast and a hot cup of coffee or tea. Once I've satisfied my hunger and caffeinated my system, I dive into checking my emails and scrolling through social media to stay connected.

With those tasks behind me, it's time for some self-care. I prioritize my morning yoga or mobility work to get my body moving and ready for the day ahead. This is where the course of my day changes depending on whether it's a climbing day or a rest day.

On climbing days, my focus shifts to the gym. It's a heavy training session that awaits me. I start with basic weightlifting exercises to build strength, followed by hangboarding to work on my grip. After a thorough warmup, I head to the Moonboard for some challenging limit bouldering. These intense sessions push me to my limits and help me progress in my climbing journey.

When I'm on the road or feeling adventurous, I set my sights on exploring new climbing areas or pursuing specific goals. It's about immersing myself in nature and pushing my boundaries in breathtaking landscapes. The thrill of discovering hidden gems and conquering new challenges keeps me motivated.

Rest days are a welcomed break. I have a couple of go-to options to relax and unwind. Sometimes, I enjoy staying home, playing Counter Strike, and indulging in climbing media to keep my inspiration flowing. Other times, I can't resist the urge to get out and explore. I take my loyal dog along as we venture to new climbing spots or focus on my digital guidebooking job, helping others discover their own climbing adventures.

Evenings are dedicated to taking care of my body. After dinner, I make sure to include antagonist exercises to maintain muscle balance and prevent injuries. I also incorporate more yoga or mobility work into my routine, allowing my body to recover and find balance after a day of activity.

This is the rhythm of my daily life—a blend of nourishing routines, exciting challenges, and moments of rest and exploration. Each day brings new opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of my climbing passion. And throughout it all, my trusty RCKMNKY gear accompanies me, adding a touch of style and functionality to my climbing adventures.

The Journey Into Climbing:

I didn't discover climbing until later in life, when I found myself in a new city for an internship about five years ago. Initially, it was just a way to stay active and get my body moving. Little did I know that it would quickly evolve into an all-consuming obsession with indoor bouldering. The challenge, the thrill, and the sense of accomplishment hooked me from the start.

Before long, I couldn't resist the urge to take my climbing skills to the great outdoors. Arkansas, with its stunning rock formations in Cowell and HCR, beckoned me. It was there that I truly fell in love with climbing and became fully immersed in the world of outdoor bouldering. From that point on, my focus shifted entirely to conquering the rocks in nature's playground.

Fast forward to about a year ago, my partner and I made a bold decision. We saved up enough money and transformed a cargo van into our mobile home on wheels. It was time to hit the road and embrace a life of full-time climbing. Although we're now based in Las Vegas, our wanderlust hasn't diminished. I still find myself constantly traveling, chasing the perfect weather conditions, and seeking out new climbing destinations.

Climbing has become more than just a sport for me—it's a way of life. The physical and mental challenges, the camaraderie of the climbing community, and the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscapes all fuel my passion. I'm grateful for the opportunities to explore, push my limits, and constantly evolve as a climber.

The Most Memorable Climb:

Oh man, choosing a favorite climb is always a tough one. There are so many incredible routes out there that have left a lasting impression on me. But if I had to pick one that stands out, it would have to be Fingerhut in Joe's Valley.

What makes Fingerhut so special to me is the fact that it was the first double-digit boulder problem ever established in Joe's Valley. And guess what? It was also the first double-digit boulder I ever conquered! Talk about a perfect match.

I remember the time vividly. We had just returned for the fall '22 season after spending an epic summer in Wyoming. It was so great to reunite with all our climbing buddies after being apart for a couple of months. The stoke was high, and the energy in the air was palpable.

On only my second session attempting Fingerhut, I had already figured out the top section of the boulder. The real challenge for me was nailing that first move—it was the crux. With a deep breath, some chalk on my hands, and the support of my friends, I made my move. And guess what? I stuck it! My body seemed to flow effortlessly through the remaining moves, and before I knew it, I was standing triumphantly on top of the boulder.

That session was pure magic. The combination of the stunning natural surroundings, the laughter and encouragement of my climbing buddies, and the feeling of pushing my limits made it an unforgettable experience. It marked the beginning of my best season at Joe's Valley to date, filled with memorable sends and incredible moments on the rocks.

Fingerhut will always hold a special place in my heart as a testament to my growth as a climber and the joy that this sport brings. It's a reminder of the friendships forged, the challenges overcome, and the indescribable feeling of standing on top of the world, even if just for a moment.

The Go-To RCKMNKY Look:

When it comes to my go-to RCKMNKY look, it starts with the classic black RCKMNKY hat and a heather gray Climb Tee. The hat keeps the sun out of my eyes, while the shirt offers comfort and a touch of style. To complete the ensemble, I love adding a teal Windbreaker as the perfect layer. It provides the right amount of warmth and protection during climbing sessions. This combination reflects my love for climbing and embodies the adventurous spirit of RCKMNKY.

So, whether I'm gearing up for a challenging climb or simply exploring the outdoors, you can count on finding me in my trusted RCKMNKY hat, Climb Tee, and Windbreaker. It's a go-to look that blends functionality, comfort, and style, allowing me to embrace my passion for climbing with confidence and a touch of flair.