About Us
The International Federation of Sports Mountaineering (IFSM) brings together national federations and the mountaineering community to develop sports mountaineering and preserve its core traditions. One of our key missions is to support and advance the “Snow Leopard” high-altitude program — an internationally recognized achievement for climbers who summit the highest peaks of the Pamir and Tien Shan without supplemental oxygen.
We work to ensure that accomplishments in the mountains are recognized fairly and transparently, and that sporting standards remain clear, consistent, and shared across all participants.
Our Mission
We promote sports mountaineering as both a sport and a culture. IFSM supports projects and competitions that reflect the spirit of high-mountain climbing, a strong athletic standard, and respect for mountain regions. Through international cooperation, we strengthen ties between federations, athletes, and organizers.
What We Do?
IFSM officially maintains and develops the modern regulations and recognition system for the Snow Leopard badge and title, awarded for completing all 7,000-meter peaks of the Pamir and Tien Shan without the use of artificial oxygen.
1) The “Snow Bars” Program
Uphold unified and transparent criteria for awarding the badge and title;
Collect and verify summit data through member national federations;
Maintain official records and confirmations via a dedicated international commission.
2) Supporting Sports Mountaineering Disciplines
IFSM participates in shaping rules and standards for international sports mountaineering events, including competitions connected to ski-mountaineering within the broader sports mountaineering framework.
3) International Cooperation
We unite national federations in order to:
Develop international calendars of events and projects;
Exchange expertise in athlete preparation and judging;
Support shared standards of safety, ethics, and sporting integrity.