Climbing Etiquette

We are happy to see how many new climbers are in the gym. Here are some common unspoken rules that will help navigate those busy nights and make new friends. A great refresher for experienced climbers as well!

Giving Beta

Beta is great—when it’s asked for! Beta spray is not so great. Sometimes people don’t need beta or maybe they want to figure the move out on their own. Always ask or wait to be asked before giving beta.

Falling

We have thick pads (and rubber mulch in Brooklyn). Learn how to fall properly so you don't potentially injure yourself or a friend. If you’re not sure, ask a crew member to remind you how.

Spotting

A spotter’s goal is to direct a falling climber towards the mat, away from any obstacles (such as other walls or people) and can be a visual reminder for others to stay out of the fall zone. The goal of a spotter is not to catch the climber. Please note our spotting policy for minors (found in our FAQ under ‘KIDS’).

Spacial Awareness

Always be aware of your surroundings. This includes above, behind, and to the left and right of you. Don’t sit on the edge of the mat if a climber is climbing behind you and avoid walking under or through overhanging areas. Help avoid accidentally being kicked in the head or fallen on!

Different problems may start far apart and converge in the middle, so before starting to climb, check your path and the path of those climbing around you so you don’t overlap halfway up the wall.

Taking Turns

It’s easy to want to jump right back on the wall after falling or sending. Before you do this, be mindful of others waiting to take their own turn in the same wall space.

The gym is big! We encourage you to spread out throughout the gym (especially if you're a large group), but don’t block climbs by sprawling out or stretching on the pads.

Chalking Up

No chalk? Don’t take a dip into a strangers bag—we have chalk available for sale and bags for rent! If you spill loose chalk, ask a crew member to borrow a broom.

Asking For Help

Unfamiliar with something, such as the training boards? Ask a crew member for help and be aware of anyone currently using it before jumping in to experiment.

Tick Marks

Tick marks can be really helpful, but also really hard to brush off for the next climber. Please don't put any marks on the walls or holds!

Cleanliness

You must wear climbing shoes while on the walls. We do allow climbing in street shoes in our Bellingham gym, but we recommend renting a pair of climbing shoes—you'll be surprised how small of a foothold you can use with them! Climbing barefoot, in dirty street-shoes, with flip-flops, or in socks only is not allowed.

Scrapes happen, but please let a crew member know if you’ve bled on a hold or the wall.