Bouldering vs scrambling reddit. It's much better for your strength than route climbing.

Bouldering vs scrambling reddit Here’s a guide to key climbing techniques, blending detailed descriptions with actionable tips. Most that care to argue about it have a chip on their shoulder for some reason or another. I find that your rate of improvement is fastest when you're climbing for at least an hour (closer to two is ideal), three times a week. I know I might get downvoted for this, but whatever– it’s not that serious anyways. And yes we are scared of falling. No matter what, the best approach shoes Feb 2, 2025 · There are significant differences between bouldering and top rope climbing from safety to health and cost. So, what are scrambling grades? Scrambles in North America are graded on the Yosemite Decimal System, ranging from Class 1 (Easy Hiking) to Class 5 (Rock Climbing). I specify bouldering vs rope climbing. Understand the five classes of terrain and the different techniques and styles mountaineers, rock climbers, and alpinists use to travel, explore, and play among them. Late October into November is arguably the worst conditions we have for climbing all year and a lot of the summer scrambles that people think of are not good now. A rope can be carried but is usually not required. Ok so one for sure is true. Oct 9, 2020 · Learn the difference is between scrambling, bouldering, and free climbing, and the difference between free climbing and free soloing. Basically prolonged low stress (climbing) versus short intense stress (bouldering). I see some intersections between rock climbing and mountaineering. All Cliffs are consistent, can’t speak for CRG, MPHC. In this article we explain the pros and cons of each! Need Scrambling / Light Climbing Boot Suggestions I've been scrambling a lot more last year, and while I love my Asolo Fugitives 95% of the time, last year they soaked through pretty good in at least one summer snowfield and got mildly wet a couple other times. Basic covers basic rock climbing and glacier travel skills. Since my Mom at the age of 52 completed the Seattle Mountaineering Basic Climbing Course, I would be able you use your criteria of "if my Mom couldn't do it, it's scrambling" :):). Read now! Hi mountaineers! I have been looking for boots for both technical terrain, mostly loose rocks and scrambling. Falls are not always fatal. This Bouldering Vs. My recollection is the basic climbing course opens before scrambling does, so if you apply for the climbing course and aren't chosen, you can take scrambling instead. Endurance built from rope climbing will help teach you and your muscles how to relax and recover for prolonged Bouldering sessions, and power from Bouldering may come in handy for harder rope routes. May 6, 2021 · What Is Scrambling? Rock scrambling, often shortened to just scrambling, is an activity that falls somewhere in between hiking and rock climbing. Hiking vs . However, bouldering and climbing is literally the best, but I wouldn't do it to help you lose weight. In this article, we’ll define bouldering vs. But I don’t know the best place to start . Rock Climbing: These are two distinct yet closely related disciplines within the world of climbing. #1 v4 is approximately equivalent to 11d if you are comparing the hueco and yds scales. May 30, 2022 · Scrambling in hiking sounds intense, but it's not like rock climbing. Scrambling will cover basic low-class rock travel skills and basic snow skills with ice axe usage. Harlem has really fun setting! Try to check out some of the outdoor bouldering NYC has to offer too. However, they are actually quite different and refer to two different spectrums of the climbing world and community. Keep in mind that climbing with a pack on will never be like climbing in the gym. This could be as part of a hillwalk, up a buttress, or quite often a ridge between summits These work but are not as good at technical scrambling. I normally do full body at the gym, but I was thinking of going rock climbing along with working out at the gym there. Feb 21, 2025 · Discover the differences between bouldering and top rope climbing, including safety, physical and mental challenge, cost, and social aspects. I think something dawned on me during a recent hike quite remote and deep in an Utah canyon: “Oh shit, there is way more to see here. Sahale is worth looking into for one with an easy glacier + scrambling Adams is largely a walk but its also no joke, and worth doing sometime Nov 7, 2025 · The best rock climbing shoes in the world aren’t going to do you any good if you can’t reach your route in the first place. I’m super interested to get some scrambling under my belt this year. We’ll help you sort the main distinctions between rock climbing and bouldering when it comes to style and technique, gear, grading systems, risks, and which is right for you. Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that is done on small formations of rocks or artificial rock walls (aka boulders) without the use of ropes or harnesses. Jun 9, 2024 · Hiking, scrambling, and bouldering may sound like different words for the same thing, but they are very different activities. There is a rock climbing gym by my house, that has tons of walls and stuff, along with tons of exercise equipment kinda like a gym area. At which grade did you start to plateau? When did you start seriously training? Class 1 is easy trails, class 2 is difficult trail or no trail, class 3 is scrambling, class 4 is very steep scrambling/easy climbing, class 5 is full rock climbing. I'vs been scrambling since I was a kid and have done grade 3's that took me several failed attempts and return trips, succeeded on alpine 5. No safety harness required. 9, but have been wondering lately; Should I stick with top rope, or is it better to "cross train" on bouldering problems? Bouldering makes me nervous, but I would like to do it if it Feb 23, 2023 · Scrambling vs Climbing Scrambling and climbing are two activities that people do in the mountains. Stuart, Black Peak, and Del Campo are some options. I've used both and definitely prefer the approach shoes for scrambling if there isn't a long approach beforehand. Below I have tried to give a very … If you dont need a goal with glacier travel, theres scrambles and rock climbing mtns that are more than walks. Class 4 is harder and more exposed scrambling, basically easy rock climbing where a fall would be bad. I've heard them described as being most useful for when the scrambling/rock portions are longer than the "hiking" portions of your day. Comparing them is like trying to compare BMX biking and touring the country on a road bike. They’re normally considered separate activities from regular hiking, which is when you walk along trails and only occasionally need to use your hands to pull yourself up over an obstacle. ” Here, at the southern edge of the Catskill Mountains, a wall of quartz undulates and recedes behind the Shawangunk State Forest creating one of the earliest Meccas of trad climbing in North America and what is still today widely considered a top destination for one-to-three pitch How do you deal with fear of heights in rock climbing whether in a gym or on a mountain? Ive been rock climbing for 2 months. Apr 10, 2022 · With the rise of bouldering gyms worldwide, especially in big cities, it’s essential to look at what bouldering exactly is and how it relates to rock climbing. It won't hurt, for sure, but the moves are quite different from typical scrambling moves. 8 - 5. No reason to concern yourself with the old man yelling at the wind lol How to get upgoats on r/climbing: google image search "climbing grade conversion" post 1st result profit??? The latter is much safer than the former. Also surprisingly durable for a high performance shoe, lasted 8 months before I resoled them could have probably pushed it another month or 2. Especially as a beginner (and for most people forever) you do not want to do anything close to a bouldering problem outside without a spotting partner or, in case of actual heights being involved, a partner and climbing equipment for sport/trad climbing. Hello! I've been climbing for about 2 years now, but over the past 3 months have been going on a regular basis and getting more serious about it. Sport climbers have quite a bit more gear to purchase in comparison. So what’s the difference between scrambling and climbing? Hi all UK based guy here. Hopefully my copy paste kept enough formatting. Sep 16, 2022 · What is scrambling, and how can you get started safely? in this guide to scrambling Mountaineering Scotland Safety Advisor, mountaineering instructor and The Great Outdoors gear reviewer Kirsty Pallas explains all… Scrambling describes using your hands and feet to ascend a rocky step, or several steps. You don’t necessarily need to to be roped in, but places like the E Mar 15, 2024 · Bouldering vs. Natural protection can be easily found. Nov 7, 2023 · We focus so much on the act of climbing and what gear is essential in that arena—rock shoes, harness, rope, hardware, helmet, pack—that we sometimes neglect what’s helpful for actually getting to the climb. Mainly because they're different disciplines and require different gear to practice. While both involve scaling vertical surfaces, they differ in terms of equipment, techniques, and overall approach. So yeah, downclimbing is pretty decent. Here’s how it works. For sport climbing, it's good for endurance and static climbing. If you don't have much outdoor experience or rock/snow travel skills, scrambling may be your best bet. Nov 30, 2022 · Discover the best bouldering shoes in 2025 with our analysis to pick the most suitable model. Hello, I've recently gotten into bouldering and are really happy about finally finding a workout that I actually enjoy, but I am wondering how good of a workout is it? Considering loosing weight and building som muscles? Apr 3, 2024 · Rock Scrambling Vs. On Reddit, the difference between mountaineering and alpinism is mostly gatekeeping. May 13, 2025 · An avid ropeless climber explores the terms scrambling and free soloing, surveying pro climbers and his own experience. Mountaineers route was my first introduction into mountaineering, and I was very surprised by its difficulty. Stuart cascadian couloir route would be a step up physically, not a lot harder scrambling but a good amount of it Tower mountain is step up in scramble difficulty Fernow is a step up in a variety of ways depending on the route Kaleetan if you want another similar to the ones you listed You might like enchantment peak, McClellan, and witches tower in the enchantments, also cashmere If you can Aug 20, 2024 · Tired of busted knuckles and aluminum dust covering your hands after a long day of climbing? For over a decade now, our climbing experts have been testing the best climbing gloves. I think rock climbing helped me notice some lack of my balance, weak legs, or even foot placement. Scrambles in the UK are graded from 1-4, with 1 being moderately difficult and 4 being extremely difficult: Doing a bunch of scrambling trips is also a good way to network with trip leaders to get permission to join selective trips, which is important for once you are in climbing. On the other hand, if you ever transition to more technical stuff it will give a you a decent base. Redpoint In this format competitors are given 3 or 4 hours to climb as many boulder problems as they like, and points are awarded for each successful completion. The home of Climbing on reddit. This was done for an academic project, and all of the Rock climbing in particular is pretty biased toward pulling, although if you're a good climber you'll push and use your legs quite a bit as well. Here, “scrambling” often refers to ropeless ascents of Class 5 routes, which, by definition, is free soloing. New to the area and looking for good recommendations for gym climbing in or around the twin cities! I’m an average climber… Im curious what everyone’s climbing progression/timeline has been like? How quickly did you progress from V1 to V2, and then V2 to V3 etc (not limited to bouldering grades). It teaches you to follow someone else on their mountaineering trip. Jun 15, 2025 · Explore bouldering basics and top rope essentials, from gear to safety, in this comprehensive guide. Dedicated to increasing all our knowledge about how to better improve at our sport. Nov 17, 2023 · The shoe that's best for you depends on your body type, climbing style, the type of rock you climb on, and how much you want to spend. Jul 21, 2023 · Class 2 is easy scrambling or hard hiking, maybe using a hand here or there for balance but mostly just walking over rougher terrain. Sure, some climbs are a stone’s throw from the car, but others require fourth or fifth-class scrambling to reach the first pitch. bouldering will definitly help you get in better shape (and probably in a fun way too), but it wont reflect 100% what you want to achieve if you dont want to get only better at bouldering. I buy a pound at a time, 16x 1 oz blocks. Both activities take place outdoors, and both activities do not involve the use of a harness. Jan 18, 2023 · Bouldering is more affordable than rock climbing ‘Climbing gear’ | Image by Mark Doliner | under license CC BY-SA 2. 5m). For alpine, it can be the thing that determines whether you live or die. I actually gained a little weight and lost my cardiovascular fitness when I dropped weight lifting and running for climbing because I loved it so much and had limited free time. Apr 10, 2025 · Scrambling exists in the gray area between walking (Class 1) and technical rock climbing (Class 5). This is meant for newcomers/relative beginners to bouldering and will outline what you should focus on, the frequency, and intensity depending on your personal needs. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 4M subscribers in the climbing community. (I use la sportive tx4s anywhere on freeway but i know many people who use climbing shoes) Also come to the boulder climbers meetup at movement Monday and Thursday after work. Scrambling is climbing that no-one would normally consider climbing in the standard belayer/ leader way- you might wear harnesses and take a rope and a few bits of gear “just in case” but you wouldn’t rope up at the bottom and climb it in pitches. Presently I have Salomon hiking boots… We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 0 Boulderers only require climbing shoes, some chalk, and a crash pad to get around. Instead, focus on your feet your legs I keep a spare block in my bouldering bag, break off chunks from an active block and crush into bouldering or climbing chalk bag. To use a non-climbing example, there's a big difference in risk between a section of trail that's flat and level, versus a section of trail with a very steep downgrade that's not level, and for which a misstep might result in a fall of 25 feet (7. . For bouldering, your knees will thank you. Arm Strength Many beginners rely too much on their arms, leading to quick fatigue. Rope climbing is long, steady climbing at a much "lower" V grade equivalent that take insane amounts of endurance and strategy to get through in one shot. I’m not new to backpacking, but very much new to the idea of scrambling. We’re here to settle the bouldering vs. I'm looking for an approach shoe for scrambling about in the mountains and have been coming across lots of conflicting info. What’s everyone’s opinions on rock climbing as an alternative to going to the regular gym, or just to a regular workout? 19 votes, 12 comments. Bouldering grades vs YDS grades aren't really super comparable all around the globeespecially in gyms. Can mere mortal climbers really tell the difference in composition? Does a branded ball give chalk easier for swifter mid route chalking? Apr 23, 2024 · The Gunks To discuss rock climbing in New York City one must start 85 miles up the Hudson River at “The Gunks. I’m an avid hiker and also into indoor bouldering. Rock Climbing article will explain it. rock climbing debate once and for all! What is Bouldering? Class 2: Simple scrambling, with the possibility of occasional use of the hands. When I started I could do v2 and muscle through some v3s Now my technique is vastly improved but I’m still climbing v3s and can barley do some v4s. Does anybody know any good bouldering spots/trails? ( Preferably bouldering with no equipment required (devils cellar at table rock or attic window at gfather, type bouldering) The top of grandfather has the best technical trails in my opinion, but it's supposed to rain today. So Dec 28, 2024 · Source : Catalyst Climbing Climbing isn’t just about pulling yourself up; mastering different techniques can make your climbing more efficient and enjoyable. If you had previously been climbing on the rock, and left chalk marks on the rock, the officer could reasonably infer you were climbing. Bouldering will improve your climbing technique, coordination, core/grip strength and so on. Little potential danger is encountered. If you’ve completed challenging hiking trails on steep terrain, there’s a good chance you’ve already done some scrambling. Bouldering is a good power exercise, but because climbs are generally very short and explosive, you do not build a ton of endurance, sport climbing is much better for that. Traditionally, it refers to movement over terrain rated Class 2, 3 or 4. 1. I have wider feet, value climbing ability more than hiking comfort, and prefer lower weight footwear. So here are some silly noob questions: Best place to find good scrambling routes? Guide books? Apps? Websites? Best footwear in your opinion? Trail runners? Approach shoes? Hiking boots? Do people Class 4: Where Scrambling Meets Climbing Class 4 is a serious step up, where hard scrambling occupies a gray area between difficult scrambling and easy technical rock climbs. Also note that climbing on one particular boulder is totally prohibited in Garden of the Gods. Climbing harnes, ropes, belay devices, quickdraws, the list goes on. Here’s what you need to know. The middle ground between hiking and climbing is a Apr 4, 2025 · We tested 13 climbing ropes from Sterling, Petzl, Edelrid, Mammut, and others to find the best options for you. 7's due to bad feelings only to get caught in an unexpected storm soon after we were back on flat ground Bouldering grade VS Sport Grade (and what to expect) Stumbled across this article and found it quite useful/interesting as I'm a sport climber who basically uses bouldering as a tool to get stronger. Ive noticed I can rock climb something easy and not be scared until I reach near the top but as the climb increases in difficulty the fear starts kicking in sooner. May 13, 2025 · Our climbing fanatic found the best climbing pants of 2025. Does anyone experiece with any of these in technical terrain or Learn about climbing and bouldering ratings, including how route difficulty is measured and the difference between a rating and a grade. I have been strictly top rope so far and have gotten up to 5. Jun 21, 2025 · You've heard the terms "bouldering" and "rock climbing" tossed around, but what exactly is the difference? Bouldering is actually just one form of rock climbing, and recently the sport has skyrocketed in popularity. Here's what you need to know. Rock scrambles can be rewarding and scenic. These training exercises for rock climbing and bouldering will help you build strength and improve balance. climbing. I'm currently looking at the Arcteryx Konseal FL 2 Leather GTX, Scarpa Gecko, and LS TX2 Evo. The two major bouldering competition formats you'll see are Redpoint and Onsight. The more I browse bouldering content online the more I come across the “You’re a (insert grade) climber, but are they indoor or outdoor boulders?” conversations. Hiking and Rock Climbing Although scrambling shares many of the same characteristics as both hiking and rock climbing, there are distinct differences as well. Keep reading to see more! Sep 8, 2023 · Bouldering and rock climbing are very similar. Class 4: Simple climbing, with exposure. It's much better for your strength than route climbing. Vital west is cool though I haven’t been since it went under new management but probably the same. But in the Flatirons, the term takes on a unique meaning. Whether heading to the gym or hitting up your local crag, we've got you covered. It’s not a strenuous hike like I was expecting, and there is a ton of more technical scrambling. ” Especially in the context of rock art. The class rating is somewhat subjective and the boundaries between classes can be a bit fuzzy, but this is a general overview. 10, so that falls in line with your top rope capability. 11 V's on my first go and bailed off easy 5. Apr 15, 2020 · What is the difference between bouldering vs climbing? We'll detail how they compare and help you decide what is best for you. The approach can be anything from a short scramble to the crag or a multi-day hump to a valley of granite towers and anything in between. What Is Bouldering? Many people use "hiking" and "climbing" interchangeably. Some people go so far as to straight up call gym climbers weak, as if making some sort of comparison between hiking the Appalachian trail Mar 13, 2019 · Scrambling ranges from grade one (which the British Mountaineering Council describes as an exposed walking route) up to grade three (a moderately graded climbing route), and many mountains and Bouldering vs rock climbing… what really are the differences you need to know about? We explain it here. My weight is probably the biggest issue, I am 210 lbs @ 5’9 but a lot of it is muscle (powerlifting background). Which is worse for finger joint health? Jul 3, 2024 · What is scrambling in hiking? Our experts provide insights into the pursuit, looking at how it's graded and recommending some rules to follow When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. It entirely depends if you want do any alpine rock climbing or May 19, 2025 · See our guide to the best climbing backpacks of 2025, with reviews of cragging, alpine, and follower packs from Arc’teryx, Patagonia, Black Diamond, and more. Scrambling requires using your hands in addition to your feet to make your way up steep, rocky surfaces. Don’t take this the wrong way, but the vagueness of your question makes me assume you are pretty inexperienced. In fact, sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably – especially by folks new to the world of climbing. For our current review, we researched 35 models and purchased eight of the top gloves to test side-by-side. Climbing helmets protect primarily from falling objects, usually but not exclusively rockfall, so if there is a person on the wall, animals in the area or loose rock, the helmet doesn't come off, even if we're taking a break, unless we move away from the wall. Jan 9, 2024 · Understanding the difference between hiking, scrambling and rock climbing could save a life. I’ve never canyoneered our bouldered/climbing. Do any of you have experience rock climbing? It’s certainly not necessary, but I think the skills and familiarity of coordinating hand and foot movements, and awareness of body position and balance translate to class 3 and definitely class 4 scrambles. In some places, a V1 is roughly a stout 5. Bouldering makes you strong. Compare climbing methods today! 20 votes, 26 comments. Sep 25, 2018 · In a nutshell, bouldering vs rock climbing is the same but different. She was rappelling off cliffs, doing crevasse rescue practice in 150' deep crevasses, and climbing all the major glaciated peaks in Washington afterwards :). Gyms often rent out pads. But what about technique? As bouldering allows you to make much more tries on a single move and at the same time bouldering is more complex (i am not sure about that) is it better for your technique? On the other side, route climbing allows you to do much more moves but of course Feb 11, 2025 · We put 11 men's climbing approach shoes to the test from La Sportiva, Salewa, and Scarpa to find the best models. Reddit's rock climbing training community. I don't see either as 'more real' than the other. Class 3: Scrambling with increased exposure. It's very important that your shoes All city gyms are fair imo. Even at nationals, the sheer number of competitors is so much higher in bouldering its bound to be more competitive. #2 Lead climbing comps (spoken from my own experience so take it with a grain of salt) are noticeably less competitive than bouldering ones at most levels of competition. I've always used whatever chalk ball is cheapest in gooutdoors or decathlon but having seen a YouTube video comparing the best chalks I'm now intrigued as to whether I'd notice the value of a more premium brand. This made me think about mountaineering in general. It involves difficult and exposed scrambling on very steep terrain with considerable and continuous exposure, though it still tends to have good, abundant holds. Basically, scrambling is climbing 10 feet above the ground. However, you should be aware of significant differences between hiking vs. We put these gloves through the gauntlet of climbing, and have traveled miles of vertical rock during our The solution is still my favorite sport climbing shoe that I have tried, precise and makes me feel confident on even the smallest feet. Bouldering is short, intense climbing. And even when a climb does have an easy approach, the descent could involve rappelling, scrambling, downclimbing, or several miles of Sep 10, 2025 · We purchased and tested climbing helmets from Black Diamond, Petzl, CAMP, Edelrid, Mammut, and more to find the very best helmet to protect your dome If you start left, I’d recommend wearing climbing shoes instead of scrambling shoes, at least until you really learn to trust your feet in scrambling shoes. I've noticed newer climbers tend to have trouble figuring out how to train besides "just climbing more", so I've created this guide of sorts to hopefully help a few people. Jan 13, 2025 · Expert Advice / Climbing The 4 Best Approach Shoes of 2025: Staff Picks Tackle technical climbs and the trail that got you there with these tried-and-tested approach shoes. It's common to assume that bouldering and rock climbing are similar, but they are different in many ways. In addition, there are separate grading systems for ice climbing, mixed climbing, drytooling, aid climbing, scrambling, bouldering and so on - it's a mess. rock climbing and discuss the implications in terms of difficulty, training safety, and equipment. Boulder problems like traverses make the climber go from one end of a wall to another horizontally. In the UK, the difference between scrambling and hiking is similar: if you use your hands for stability, you’re hiking, if you use your hands for propulsion, you’re scrambling and if you use a rope, you’re climbing. A rope is often used. May 24, 2012 · There are lots of different types of climbing – like rock, ice and mixed – and then there are other fuzzier areas like scrambling and walking on snow. I have a feeling that improving all of these things could be very helpful in mountaineering, especially in higher mountains. (2) Footwork vs. Hi, So I’ve been climbing pretty regularly for about 2 years now. jpbbly cayd ader aqbrp eyhkm lyk hnsjkxc ypicif svlyax rywb dvlyvt pxecqjed raut jgebo rvwe