Knowing the “do’s” and “don’ts” of a new sport is not always intuitive. This guide aims to provide a jumping-off point for those who may not be familiar with the intricacies of climbing etiquette. If you have not yet read Part 1, check it out here!
1 // Do not climb barefoot.
Feet smell bad. If you put them on climbing holds, not only will the sweat and oils from your feet grease up the grips, but they will also make everyone’s hands smell like your soggy doggies. Please refrain!
2 // Remove your harness when bouldering.
You don’t need it! Promise! If you wear a harness while bouldering and have gear attached, it could seriously injure you in a fall. Not to mention, you might look a little silly and the added weight won’t be helping you send!
“While there is nothing inherently wrong with wearing a harness while bouldering, you might look a little silly.”
3 // Do not wear climbing shoes in the bathroom!
While it is a small inconvenience to change boots for your mid-sesh bathroom break, this is an important one. In the same vein as our previous point, wearing climbing shoes in the bathroom can track… bacteria... onto the climbing holds we all collectively grab. Along those lines, be sure to wash your hands after climbing!
4 // Keep it tidy!
Make an effort to keep your belongings together when unpacking after you arrive. When your items are splayed across the gym like a yard sale, it can be inconvenient and annoying to others. Additionally, you are at greater risk of misplacing your belongings.
5 // Support, don't spray.
What is “spray?” In essence, spray is sharing information. One can spray beta, which means telling someone information about a climb and how to best ascend it (“Oh yeah, it’s actually way easier if you just match that hold and drop-knee the volume”). Climbers can also spray about their own achievements (“Yeah bro, I flashed all the pink dots last set. They were soft like kittens”). Spray is not inherently bad; however, unwanted spray is a huge no-no. For those who enjoy the challenge of figuring out a climb’s intricacies on their own, beta spray is like a spoiler. Avoid sharing the details of a climb or its beta unless you are explicitly asked to do so! Simple as that.
Climbing is an inclusive, supportive activity! You can engage with someone else’s session in positive ways, without spraying. Encouragement and praise are broadly supported and are an integral part of the climbing ethos. Common things you might hear at the bouldering walls are, “C’mon, you got it. Breathe. Smash it! Keep it tight. Nice work, homie!” Fist bumps are also a requisite for congratulating success.
6 // Control ya wobblers!
Most of us have seen it. The dreaded gym wobbler, or tantrum. Climbing is an emotional activity, for sure, but don’t be that gym-goer who is yelling, kicking their chalk bucket, and punching the wall in anger and frustration. These reactions make everyone in the vicinity uncomfortable. If you are someone who has trouble controlling their emotions in the gym, be mindful of those around you and apologize if you think you might’ve negatively impacted someone else’s experience. Remember, climbing is supposed to be fun!
7 // Bring kiddos, but keep a close eye on them.
Climbing is a family friendly activity, and your young ones are welcome in The Front. That said, it is imperative for your children’s safety and the safety of others that they are carefully monitored. Keep kids off the crash pads when they are not climbing and ensure they know to be mindful of their surroundings. Oh yeah, and don’t let them eat chalk.
ANYONE UNDER THE AGE OF 14 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED AND SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES BY AN ADULT
8 // Remove jewelry and items from pockets!
Refrain from climbing with jewelry on your hands and items in your pockets. Rings are especially problematic when it comes to climbing. Not only might you ruin your grandmother’s precious gem, but rings can cause serious injuries to your fingers when climbing (if you have a really strong stomach, you can Google search “climbing deglove,” but don’t say we didn’t warn you). Additionally, be sure to empty your pockets. Loose items can fall from your pockets while climbing and be damaged and/or damage others in the vicinity.
We hope this two-parter has taught you a thing or two! Again, learning climbing etiquette takes time. Do not hesitate to ask our staff for additional pointers or to clarify any lingering questions!
