Climbing indoors (or outdoors) requires its own set of etiquette rules to ensure everyone is safe and respected. To help you reach the top in bouldering and rock climbing, here are some climbing etiquette rules you should be following if you want to become a friendly face in the climbing world — whether they’re experienced or just starting out.
Table of Contents
1. Share The Route – You Don’t Have Dibs
A hanging dog is a person whose body sits on a rope over long periods. On average there are about 30 and 90 ropes in gyms and between none and hundreds of boulders.
Although it may be tempting to keep a route, don’t. When there is a waiting line for the rock or boulder path you are working on, limit your turns and let others have a chance once in a while.#
2. Respect the Environment And Clean Up After Yourself
Make sure to clean up after yourself. Move aside any loose rocks or sand that may have been disturbed and dispose of all your trash in a proper place. Climbers should also avoid making loud noises, shouting, or cracking jokes while someone is climbing so they can stay focused.
Of course, rock climbing is a social activity that should be enjoyed this way, I’m not saying DON’T TALK, but just have a little respect for your fellow climber, whether you’re outdoor or indoor rock climbing.
3. Be Considerate When Spotting
When spotting, keep in mind the comfort and safety of your climbing partner. Since it could be a beginner climber, rest assured that you will catch them if they fall from the bouldering wall, but don’t grab their torso or put too much pressure on them as this may cause more harm than good.
Be aware that spotters should never stand directly underneath a climber and adjust the spot accordingly.
4. Be Careful With Your Belay Device
When belaying, make sure that the belay device is used correctly and securely attached to your climbing partner’s harness. Do not forget to check both edges of the rope for misalignment before you begin belaying.
5. Allow Beginners To Learn
If you come across new climbers, let them learn at their own pace, and don’t be too hard on them. Encourage the use of safety equipment such as helmets, harnesses, and ropes, even if you are an experienced climber. This will ensure that everyone is prepared for any situation.
6. Don’t Get in The Way – Always Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
When rock climbing it is essential to be aware of your surroundings, both before and during the climb. Not only can getting in the way of other climbers be dangerous but it is also considered courteous to give them enough room to move freely.
This means that when indoor climbing at climbing gyms or at an outdoor climbing community, you should watch out for any potential obstacles and move around them accordingly; don’t be in the fall zone!
Also, make sure to take note of any other climbers in the area and respect their space as well. Taking these measures will ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable climb.
7. Don’t Be Spray Beta
It’s a big pet peeve among climbers when someone is spraying or giving false beta (climbing tips). This not only can ruin the climb for others, but it can also be dangerous.
To avoid this, try to stay focused on your own climb and encourage other climbers to do the same. If you do choose to give advice, make sure it is valid and you don’t offer unsolicited advice to the person who is receiving it; aka. spraying beta.
8. Watch The Profanity
Rock climbing can be a fun and exciting sport, but it’s important to remember that you’re not the only one around. People of all ages and skill levels come together in rock climbing areas, so try to keep your language appropriate; especially when you’re at the climbing gym when it’s littered with young families.
9. Be a Good Climber And Brush Your Holds
If you’re climbing indoors, remember to brush off the holds when you’re done. This will help keep the rock clean and ready for the next climber.
When outdoor rock climbing, be sure to leave any rocks or pebbles that may have been disturbed in their original place so as not to ruin other people’s experience.
Also; don’t get into a problem between when someone brushes it and when they’re putting the brush away. This is considered very rude, as the person brushing it has already taken the time to clean it for you.
10. Don’t Play Loud (Or Any) Music
Rock climbing is a peaceful activity and should be treated as such. Don’t play music, or any other type of loud noise while you’re out on the rock; it takes away from the natural experience and can be distracting to other climbers.
11. Keep Your Items Close To You
When climbing, it’s important to keep your items close to you so that they won’t get in the way or cause any accidents. Make sure to pack light and only bring what is absolutely necessary; extra weight can be a burden and make it difficult for you to maneuver on the rock.
In addition, try not to drop anything from above as it can be hazardous to people below.
12. Respect Other Climbers’ Routes
When out on the rock, it’s important to respect other climbers and their routes. This means that if someone is already climbing a certain route, you should not attempt to climb up the same one as well. Instead, look for another route or wait your turn.
13. Leash Up Your Dog
If you’re bringing your pup along for the climb, make sure to leash them up. Not only is this a sign of respect for other climbers, but it also keeps them safe from any potential hazards.
14. Don’t Let Your Kids Run Wild
Rock climbing is a great activity for kids to get out and explore the outdoors, but it’s important to be mindful of their safety. Make sure they understand the rules of the area and that they stay close to you and away from any dangerous areas.
15. Embrace The Wait, Have Some Patience
Rock climbing is a popular sport and it’s likely that you won’t have the entire rock to yourself. When dealing with crowds of climbers, try to be patient and wait for your turn. Showing respect for other climbers will save you time in the long run.
And who knows, maybe you’ll make some new friends amongst the people waiting – being social is half the fun.
16. No Climbing Shoes In The Bathroom
We all know how important it is to keep the public restrooms at climbing areas clean, so make sure not to wear climbing shoes while using them. Going bare foot isn’t so bad.
17. Be Friendly and Encouraging
Finally, above all else, be friendly and encouraging to your fellow climbers. Rock climbing is a community, and it’s important to make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable in their environment.
Be respectful of each other’s skills and never laugh at someone for falling or making mistakes. Instead, offer positive words of encouragement to help build each other’s confidence.
Final Words On Climbing Etiquette
Climbing etiquette isn’t just important for those around us – but also for us as climbers. It can help to ensure that no one gets injured and that everyone can enjoy their time spent on the rock! On top of sticking by this climbing etiquette list, make sure you’re following along the local or gym rules too.
Following these 17 tips and you’ll be sure to have a great climbing experience. Happy Climbing!