Explorers – AYAQ

VINCENT DEFRASNE
Olympic biathlon champion, raised in the Jura mountains. From an early age, he built endurance and resilience in this demanding natural environment. His elite biathlon career deepened his intimate connection with the mountains, a place of challenge and self-surpassing. Believing companies must lead on environmental issues, he founded AYAQ to offer high-performance technical gear designed with ecosystem respect, supporting adventurers in the harshest conditions.
MIKE HORN
Legendary explorer known for extraordinary feats like crossing the Arctic winter in total darkness and circumnavigating the globe along the equator without motorized transport. A true pioneer and fierce planet defender, he embodies exploration and self-transcendence. More than an ambassador, Mike Horn leads product development at AYAQ, applying his unique experience to push the boundaries of technical performance and eco-design for today’s and tomorrow’s explorers.
ARNAUD JERALD
World freediving champion Arnaud continuously pushes the boundaries of underwater exploration.
In winter, he trains in high mountains, practicing ski touring with an alpine-focused approach. The ascent extends his physical and mental training, while the descent completes his journey.
Always seeking new challenges, he applies the same rigor and discipline from freediving to his high-altitude climbs.

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YANN GEROME
High mountain guide and rescuer with the PGHM in Chamonix, specialized in all alpine disciplines: mountaineering, ski touring, climbing, and ice climbing.
A mountain practice driven by a constant pursuit of achievement, whether climbing iconic peaks, guiding groups, or seeking deep personal renewal.
ANTOINE CAPELLARO
High-altitude explorer driven by an unwavering passion for mountains and wide-open spaces since childhood.
Winters spent navigating steep slopes and remote couloirs. For him, a successful outing is defined by a wild route tackled with a team.
VALÉRIE AUMAGE
High-altitude mountaineer Valérie Aumage exemplifies excellence as a mountain guide and instructor at the National Ski and Mountaineering School. Her passion for the mountains drove her from childhood to master vertiginous climbs through alpinism and ski touring. For her, the mountains are more than a natural setting: they are a sanctuary of freedom and self-transcendence, offering deep balance and authentic connection with nature.

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JULIA PELLIER
Mountain explorer embodying passion and mastery of alpine sports. Raised among peaks, her love for the mountains began early, with a high-level alpine skiing career. Ski touring, cross-country skiing, trail running, and cycling are daily pursuits, enriching a life dedicated to the mountains and supporting others in their quest for self-surpassing.
SIMON DESTOMBES
High mountain guide and summit enthusiast for 40 years. A specialist in climbing, ski touring, and mountaineering, he has dedicated his life to fulfilling his childhood dreams in the heart of the mountains.
This journey has made him aware of our planet's fragility and the importance of protecting it.
IWAN SCHUWEY
Accomplished athlete with an inspiring journey. From Jaun, Switzerland, sport and exploration are central to his life through alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, duathlon, winter triathlon, and adventure races. Former Swiss Triathlon national coach, Iwan has shared his passion and expertise with many athletes.

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EXPLORER GEAR