 In September 2019, eight Ellis Brigham team members from stores across the UK took on the challenge of summiting Mont Blanc, whilst testing out the new Futurelight collection from the North Face. Futurelight is a revolutionary, breathable, waterproof outerwear technology. What sets Futurelight apart from other competitor technologies is enhanced breathability, innovative waterproofing, superior softness, proven durability, all sustainably driven. The first day consisted of arriving in picturesque Chamonix, having a briefing on the week ahead from the Jagu Globe team and getting our first hands-on experience with the new Futurelight gear from the North Face. We then headed to the local crag to brush up on our belaying and repelling skills, as well as getting a feel for climbing in B3s. All skills we would certainly make use of over the coming days in the mountains. Day 2 After waking up to glorious sunshine, the day began by heading through the Mont Blanc tunnel to gain some altitude by taking advantage of the Skyway Monte Bianco. Having dropped some overnight gear at the Oterino hut, we then kitted up in Futurelight for the first time and headed out on the glacier to practice some roped-up glacier travel. As the sun blazed down upon us, it was quickly apparent how well the Futurelight L5 jacket wicked moisture away from the skin. Given the high temperatures, it was impressive to see that not one of the team felt the need to remove the outer layer during the day. Day 3 After being treated to a stunning pastel sunrise, silhouetting the Italian Alps, we had a quick breakfast before setting out. Today's challenge was taking on the knife-edged EGAL LENTREV, an exposed traverse and one of the best granite ridge crests in the range. This really put the Futurelight collection through its paces, brushing up against the rough granite, highlighting its exceptional durability. Day 4 The final day of acclimatisation on the Mont Blanc Massif. The team set off from the Torino hut across the glacier, aiming for the EGAL DUMIDI, whilst avoiding the many crevasses along the way. After a third day on the hill wearing Futurelight, it was clear that the freedom of movement and softness of the outer layer was unlike any other hard shell we'd ever used before. Returning to Chamonix gave the team the chance to freshen up. Day 5 Final gear preparation. A quick trip up on the cable car, then onto the tramway du Mont Blanc up to the Nidale, the EGAL's nest, at 2,372 metres, before hiking up to the Tete-Rousse hut at 3,167 metres. From there we were treated to yet another stunning sunset and contemplated tomorrow's challenge, our week of training and previous months of preparations had come down to this moment. Day 6 An early start to ensure a safe crossing of the Grand Couloir, a notorious rock-full hotspot, where we then scrambled our way up to the futuristic-looking Gouta hut. After a quick gear drop, we then proceeded to make our way up the seemingly never-ending Dome du Gouta. From here the team trekked up the narrow bosses ridge and the final stretch to the summit of Mont Blanc at 4,808 metres, where we experienced a huge sense of achievement, feelings of elation and breathtaking views. Well done!