The air is getting cooler, Halloween decorations are going up, and Deadpoint is almost here! Deadpoint is our annual boulder comp and it’s one you won’t want to miss. It’s time to chalk up for a night of dyno demons, boulder-geists, and grip ghosties. To get you prepared for this epic adventure we want to provide you with expectations, etiquette, and costume ideas. That’s right, this isn’t just a normal bouldering comp, it’s also a costume comp – let’s get spooky with it!
What To Expect
Attitude
First and foremost, our comps are meant to be fun and to establish camaraderie within our community – the only thing scary about the day is the costumes. Comps are a great way to meet and climb with those who share your love of the sport and we encourage you to be supportive of everyone there, whether you are spectating or participating.
Participation and Categories
Competition is open to members and non-members alike, and we have multiple categories to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part. Each category is divided into Men’s or Women’s, with an additional non-binary category.
- Beginner V0-V2
- Intermediate V3-V5
- Advanced V5-V7
- Pro V8+
- Masters – any level ages 40+
- Non-binary (any level)
Citizen’s Categories Run Of Show
The day of the comp is broken into two exciting sessions, each with a check-in time, a rules meeting, and climbing time. Each session is in a redpoint format, meaning that all climbers are unleashed into the comp area with the same block of time to climb as many problems as they can. Each problem will have points associated which you earn by completing the problem. Those in each category with the most points at the end of both sessions will be crowned on the podium!
Pro Category Run Of Show
If you are wanting to climb as a pro, there are a few things to know. Sign up for the first climbing session of the day for seeding into finals. The top 6 climbers from the men’s and women’s Pro categories will compete in finals later in the evening! Pro finals are an onsight format; climbers get a quick preview of problems together, but cannot watch each other climb or get any other beta. There are 4 climbs per gender and 4 minutes to complete each climb. Scoring is based on how many attempts it takes to reach the zone hold and top hold.
Finals Party
Before pro finals get started, you get to throw down at the party! We’ll have food, beverages, the participant raffle, and the citizen’s category podiums before pro finals get rolling. Our setting crew pulls out all the stops on these finals boulders, with guaranteed thrills and chills as the pros attack each problem. Bring your crew and get ready to scream – spectating is FREE for everyone!
At the halfway point of finals we’ll run the costume contest, and everyone’s invited to enter! There’ll be tough competition for this part, so be sure to dress to impress.
Etiquette
For All Participants
This is a night of thrills, but we want to be sure that we are respectful of each other and the space. There are a few things to note:
- Wait your turn. We know you’re shaking to get on the wall, but we want to ensure everyone has ample time and is following the queue.
- Stay off the pads! If you aren’t climbing, stay off and stay clear. This is to help protect you and climbers from any possible risk. This also means don’t run, walk, or climb under anyone who is on the wall!
- Stay hyped! Comps can get stressful at times, but don’t fret! We are all here for a fun night of climbing!
First Timer Tips
If this is your first time partaking in a comp, welcome! Here are a few extra tips you can follow:
- Watch the beta! It’s completely acceptable to watch and get beta clues from your fellow climbers.
- Pace yourself. This is a timed event, but it’s not a race. You’ll have plenty of time and you don’t want to burn yourself out too quickly.
Costumes
What’s better than climbing? Climbing in a costume! We strongly encourage climbers and spectators alike to bring their costume A-game – it’s more fun the more people dress up! If you’re competing, you want a great costume, but you also want to be able to climb. There are three things to consider when picking your costume: movability, accessories, coolness. You want a costume that will allow you to be flexible and agile. It’s also important to be aware of how many accessories your costume has. Capes, big skirts, and jewelry are awesome, but you don’t want them to inter-FEAR with your climbing. Lastly, look cool! It is a competition after all, and the best costume gets the best prize! As they say, look great, climb great.
Need some ideas? Check out some of our favorites from year’s past below! Some are great for all day wear, others are definitely just for the contest itself.
We cannot wait to see you on October 25th! Register before October 13th 2025 for the early bird special and get ready for the most epic night of the year.
