Climbing holds are essential gear for indoor and outdoor climbing walls, shaping the experience for climbers of all levels. This list covers the various materials used to make climbing holds, detailing their properties and why manufacturers and climbers might choose one over another. Whether you’re a gym owner, route setter, or climbing enthusiast looking to understand the differences, this guide breaks down the most common hold materials.
Polyurethane (PU)
Polyurethane is currently the most popular material for climbing holds due to its durability and versatility. PU holds are lightweight, resistant to chipping, and can be molded into highly detailed shapes with textures that replicate natural rock. These holds also tend to maintain their color and grip over time, making them a top choice for commercial climbing gyms.
Polyester Resin
Polyester resin was the standard for climbing holds before polyurethane became widespread. It is a rigid, hard plastic that can be cast into various shapes but tends to be heavier and more brittle. Many older or vintage holds are polyester resin, prized for their solid feel, but they are more prone to cracking and chipping under heavy use.
Wood
Wood climbing holds are favored for their natural feel and smooth texture, often used in training boards and home walls. They provide less abrasive grip, reducing skin wear and allowing for longer sessions. While wood holds lack the bright colors of plastic ones, they are eco-friendly and can be sanded to customize grip and shape.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass holds are less common but used in some specialized climbing walls. They are lightweight and can be formed into large, complex shapes, offering a balance between strength and weight. Fiberglass holds are often used for volumes—large features added to walls—but their surface texture is usually less grippy than polyurethane.
Rubber
Rubber climbing holds are soft and offer excellent shock absorption, making them ideal for beginner holds or training grips that are easier on the skin. However, they wear down faster and provide less friction when sweaty. Rubber holds are often found in specific training tools rather than general climbing routes.
Concrete
Concrete holds are occasionally used for outdoor climbing walls or DIY projects because of their rugged durability and natural rock-like texture. They are heavy and require molds for shaping, but once set, they withstand weathering very well. Concrete holds are less common commercially due to their weight and manufacturing complexity but offer a very realistic climbing experience.
Metal
Metal holds, often made from aluminum or steel, are rare but used in some training boards or industrial-style climbing walls. They are extremely durable and can be machined with precise shapes and textures. However, metal holds can be slippery when wet, cold to the touch, and harsher on the skin, limiting their widespread use.
Composite Materials
Some manufacturers experiment with composite materials combining plastics, resins, and fillers to optimize strength, texture, and weight. These composites aim to enhance durability while reducing environmental impact or production costs. Though not yet industry standard, composites are gaining interest for their tailored performance characteristics.
Natural Rock
Using actual rock as climbing holds is common outdoors and occasionally indoors for authentic textures. Rock holds are often bolted or glued onto walls to mimic outdoor climbing surfaces. They offer unique grip challenges but vary greatly in shape, texture, and durability, making them less predictable than manufactured holds.
3D-Printed Materials
Emerging technology allows some holds to be 3D printed using durable plastics or resins, enabling highly customized shapes and rapid prototyping. While not yet mainstream, 3D printing offers potential for bespoke designs and on-demand production. Current limitations include surface finish and strength compared to traditional molded holds.
How to Choose
When selecting climbing holds, consider the intended use, durability, grip texture, and budget. Polyurethane holds are generally best for commercial gyms due to their balance of durability and feel. Wood holds suit training and home walls for their gentle grip and skin friendliness. Outdoor or specialty walls might benefit from concrete or natural rock holds for authentic texture. Additionally, weight and ease of installation matter—lighter holds reduce wall stress and simplify route setting. Finally, think about the expected wear and maintenance; some materials like polyester resin or rubber degrade faster and may need more frequent replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are polyurethane holds better than polyester resin?
Yes, polyurethane holds are generally more durable, lighter, and less brittle than polyester resin holds, making them the preferred choice today.
Why are wood holds popular for training?
Wood holds are smooth and less abrasive on skin, allowing climbers to train longer without excessive finger wear.
Can metal holds be used outdoors?
Metal holds can be used outdoors but may corrode or become slippery when wet, so they require special coatings and maintenance.
Are 3D-printed holds strong enough for climbing?
Some 3D-printed materials are strong enough for climbing, but they are not yet widely adopted due to concerns about durability and surface texture.
Do concrete holds damage climbing walls?
Concrete holds are heavy and must be securely mounted; if installed properly, they do not damage walls but are less common due to their weight.
What is the best material for beginner holds?
Rubber or smooth polyurethane holds with gentle textures are best for beginners because they are skin-friendly and offer forgiving grip.
Final Thoughts
The material of climbing holds significantly affects the climbing experience, from grip feel to durability and maintenance. Polyurethane leads the market for its versatility, but wood, resin, concrete, and even metal each serve unique roles in climbing gyms and home setups. Understanding these materials helps climbers and route setters choose holds that best fit their needs, environments, and budgets, ensuring safer and more enjoyable climbing sessions.
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