HELP: Guidebook – Grades for Via Ferrata

Via ferrata

K1 easy

In general they are marked routes. The equipement is very generous compared to the difficulty of the ground.
Large natural steps. If they are missing, there are ladders, metal rungs or bridges. The more exposed passages are secured by a rope or chain (or handrail). The experienced hiker will not need Via ferrata kit.
Examples: Schreckhornhütte, Albinenleitern, Felsenweg Sustlihütte.

K2 medium

In places we move in a steep rock; on the other hand, the tracks are very well protected.
The almost vertical passages are provided by metal rungs or ladders. A steel cable or chain allows belay even in a difficult terrain. Via ferrata kit is advised.
Examples : Eiger-Rotstock, Rigidalstock-Klettersteig, Piz Julier.

K3 rather difficult

Rocky terrain already well inclined, steep passages longer and sometimes exposed (equivalent to degree of difficulty III). The protections are abundant.
There is no passage requiring a lot of strength in the arms. Via ferrata kit is necessary.
Examples : Tälli, Klettersteig Graustock, Via ferrata Monte Generoso.

K4 difficult

Ground steeper and sometimes vertical. Short overhangs well protected. Often the route is very exposed and there are only small natural catch.
Even at the exposed passages there is only one steel cable (requires strength in the arms). Help points such as steps or metal handles are only found in the most demanding areas. "French style" sport Via ferrata is an exception since they are generally much better protected but also contain extremely exposed passages.
Examples : Klettersteig Fürenwand, Pinut ob Flims.

K5 very difficult

Via ferrata in extreme rocky ground.
Such via ferrata are often long, demanding over their entire length and therefore also very exhausting. Some vertical passages are only secured by a steel cable. Help points are only in extreme places. Reserved for experienced people via ferrata and with a good physical condition.
Examples : third part of Évolène, Greitspitz.

K6 extremely difficult

For intrepid people, with big biceps, a flawless mind and an irreproachable physical condition.
Long segments with little equippement in vertical ground, demanding good endurance and a lot of strength in the arms. In the case of a sport climbing via ferrata, it may be advantageous to wear climbing shoes (grip). Possibly get belayed by the partner.
Examples : Via ferrata from Loèche-les-Bains

Via corda

For Via Corda routes, the double activity Climbing and Via Ferrata is used if the route contains metallic equipment, type Via Ferrata. The grade is the same as for Via Ferrata.
If the Via Corda is fully equipped with bars (or others) and therefore has no climbing involved, then the overall grade and free climbing grade must not be filled.