The holiday season is in full swing, and you know what that means! Shopping for loved ones. Although we don’t believe that material items are the only way to show your love and appreciation for family and friends, we also realize that gift-giving can be a fun and easy way to show off that holiday spirit.
We also realize that the holiday season can be stressful and deciding what to gift your belaying buddy or climbing connoisseur can be tricky. That’s why we’ve built you a little holiday gift guide! If you’re unsure what to get that special someone, we hope something off our list will suffice! Better yet, all the items listed below are available at our Front locations. Nothing like doing a little holiday shopping post climb, am I right?
Give them the gifts that keep on giving.
Stocking Stuffers
Everyone loves a good stocking stuffer! But if you’ve ever been at a loss for great gifts on the “smaller” side, you’re not alone. Sure, we love a great pair of wool socks, but we think there are some more exciting and functional items you can stuff in a stocking this year.
1. Carabiners Galore
Whether going with the incredibly lightweight, easy-to-maneuver Petzl Sm’D Twist Lock or the redesigned fan-favorite Black Diamond Rocklock, a carabiner is an excellent addition to any stocking. Great for everyday climbing use and an excellent choice if you’re shopping for a large group.
2. Hangboards
A hangboard is the perfect way to show your favorite climbing buddy that you care about their grip health. The Block and the Flash Board are great choices for climbers who often travel, take breaks between climbing sessions, or admire tendon conditioning. Know a climber with crimp or pinch issues? Show them you care. Gift them a hangboard.
Gifts Under $100
1. Black Diamond Momentum Harness (All-Genders)
Every climber knows the woes of fiddling with leg loops or messing with a pinchy waistbelt. The more time spent fiddling, the less time you spend on that route! It’s a travesty, really. Thankfully, the Momentum Harness features a time-saving design that makes those little adjustments painless. Best of all? The TrakFIT leg loops make this a popular gear choice for year-round use…yes, even on those blazing hot summer days.
2. Petzl Corax LT Harness (All-Genders)
Versatile, comfortable, and highly durable. You’d expect no less from Petzl gear! You’ve probably seen this harness frequently used at the Front, and that’s because we genuinely love it. So, whether you’re searching for the perfect harness for a first-timer or a seasoned climber, the Petzl Corax LT is a luxurious choice that won’t break the bank.
3. Evolv Defy Climbing Shoes
Designed for a comfortable fit and daily performance, we think the Evolv Defy is a no-brainer for climbers on a budget, new climbers, or those who appreciate easily accessible closure systems. We don’t think you need to spend big to get a great shoe. Don’t be thrown by the modest price tag; everyone we know that’s taken this model for a spin has been happy with the climbing outcome!
Let’s Get Unique
1. A Granite Guide
2. The Front Climbing Club Flannel
Gifts for Young Climbers
1. 8B+ Chalk Bags
We adore a chalk bag with a bit of flare. Now, we’re not going to say this one is “just for kids.” Far be it from us to say you can’t be an adult with a monster-themed chalk bag, but this one is a win for the kiddos. Besides the delightfully fun faces and furry bodies, the Lily and Felix 8B+ Chalk bags are highly functional. With a soft pile lining that holds down chalk dust and brush holders on either side, it’s the perfect accessory for climbers of all ages.
2. Petzl GriGri+
Whether your child is new to climbing or well on their way to becoming the next Alex Honnold, their well-being is at the forefront of our minds whenever they ascend a wall. That’s why the Petzl GriGri+ is an excellent choice for all skill levels. This plus version has an anti-panic handle that locks a rope if a climber begins to descend too quickly for comfort. It also has two modes: top roping and lead climbing. Lead mode allows you to pull slack out much quicker, which is handy if your little climber is in a precarious situation.
3. Friction Labs Chalk
Chalk makes for an excellent stocking stuffer, and Friction Labs Chalk is our top choice for kids! Made from 100% medical-grade magnesium carbonate (sans pesky and unnecessary fillers), you can feel secure letting your youngins use this day in and day out.
Impactful Gifts
1. Give a gift to yourself AND your community!
By Robin Noble
Content Creator
