Oscar Burnham and Ambroise Abondance on a demanding expedition north of the Arctic Circle
An Arctic dream, an unwavering friendship
Oscar Burnham was born in Sicily, but the peaks have always called to him. A climber, skier and mountaineer, he forged a deep connection with the mountains from a very young age. In 2018, his life took a sudden turn: a life-changing accident led to the amputation of his left forearm. But his passion remained intact. And Oscar turned adversity into strength.
Four years later, he proudly represented France in alpine skiing at the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games. An elite sporting achievement, but also a new beginning: Oscar wanted to keep exploring, pushing the physical and symbolic boundaries of what is possible.
In 2024, he flew to Norway with his friend Ambroise Abondance for an expedition far from the spotlight, amid raw, stark and powerful landscapes. This adventure was not a sporting challenge, but a journey of fulfilment, shared understanding and rediscovered freedom.
👉 Find out more about Oscar Burnham, Paralympic athlete
Beyond the cold: a story of deep-rooted friendship
Ambroise and Oscar share more than a route: they share a vision. One in which the mountains are a place for expression, not competition. Where vulnerability becomes strength, and textile technology helps people push their personal limits.
Their Norwegian adventure pays tribute to this vision, and to everyone who chooses to keep moving forward, whatever the terrain.
An adventure equipped by AYAQ
When facing cold, damp, wind and intense physical exertion, every layer counts. AYAQ is proud to have equipped this expedition with the most technical pieces in its collection, designed to withstand the elements without compromising on comfort:
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Waterproof jacket Lonak : complete protection against rain, wind and sleet, with an ultra-breathable membrane.
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Waterproof trousers Nunatak : durability, freedom of movement and complete waterproof protection.
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Technical insulated jacket Ultar : warmth without bulk, packable and effective even in damp conditions.
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Base layer Mefonna : 100% 17-micron Merino wool for next-to-skin softness, natural insulation and optimal temperature regulation.
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Merino accessories: the Upsala beanie and Lobbia neck warmer, ideal in exposed conditions.
Every garment was designed to fade into the background, leaving you free to move, make progress and live in the moment.