2025 Boardman Tasker Award Shortlist Announced

The shortlist for the 2025 Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature has been revealed - showcasing another exceptional year of storytelling, adventure, and insight from the world’s wildest places.

Mountain Equipment is proud to continue its support for this renowned international award, which honours literary excellence in mountain writing. Now in its 41st year, the Award remains a vital platform for both new and established voices in mountain literature.

This year’s Boardman Tasker Award shortlist features seven outstanding titles selected from 28 entries submitted by authors from ten countries. The winner will be announced during the Kendal Mountain Festival on Friday, 21st November 2025, at the annual Boardman Tasker Shortlisted Authors event.

2025 Shortlist

• Rick Accomazzo
  Tobin, The Stonemasters, and Me 1970–1980
  A vivid tribute to Tobin Sorenson and the golden era of 1970s climbing in California.
  
  
• Mark Agnew
  There Will Be Headwinds
  A gripping first-hand account of kayaking the Northwest Passage, and the physical and mental challenges faced along the way.
  
  
• Paul Besley
  The Search
  A deeply personal story of transformation, told through the bond between a mountain rescue volunteer and his search dog, Scout.
  
  
• Mollie Hughes
  Breathe
  Life lessons from extreme environments, including Everest and the South Pole,  shared by the youngest woman to climb both sides of Everest and ski solo to the South Pole.
  
  
• Iain Peters
  The Corridor
  A candid and courageous memoir exploring adventure, trauma, and the healing power of wild places.
  
  
• Dave MacLeod
  Moving the Needle
  A compelling look at how ‘average’ climbers can unlock elite performance. A practical, personal, and honest account from one of the UK’s most respected climbers and a long-time Mountain Equipment sponsored athlete.
  
  
• Nathalia Holt
  The Beast in the Clouds
  The extraordinary 1928 expedition by Theodore and Kermit Roosevelt in search of the mythical giant panda in the Chinese Himalaya.

Why We Support the Award

Climbing and mountaineering are more than just physical pursuits. The stories that emerge from the mountains are often deeply personal - about risk, resilience, loss, and connection. For over 60 years, Mountain Equipment has been shaped by these same themes.

We’re proud to support an award that continues to honour the voices of those who choose to tell these stories - including our own athletes like Dave MacLeod, whose writing and climbing both reflect a commitment to honesty, curiosity, and constant progression.

Explore more about the Boardman Tasker Award and our partnership here.