Your first time walking into your local climbing gym can feel like traveling to a new country. And that culture shift can be intimidating. But not to worry, we have compiled a list of simple etiquette to keep that good vibe rolling and make everyone’s session more fun. Here’s how to blend in, stand out for the right reasons, and maybe even make a few new belay buddies along the way.
Give Routes Room to Breathe
Nothing kills the stoke faster than crowding someone who's trying hard on a climb. If you see someone working a route near one you want to hop on, wait until they come down. Use that time to stretch, re-chalk, or plan your own send.
Once the wall is clear, go for it!
If you're rope climbing, take a moment to look up and make sure there's enough space between you and anyone already climbing. Not sure? Just ask their belayer if they're comfortable with you hopping on next to them. When in doubt, leave at least one route between you and another climber.
Wall doodles??? more like wall DON’T-les
Outside, marking a loose rock with chalk is standard practice. In the gym, however, it just gives your head-setter a headache because now they have to fix the spinner AND scrub the wall down. If you spot a hold that feels wobbly or loose, don’t draw arrows or big circles around it. Let a staff member know, and we’ll alert our setters to fix it. The same logic can be applied to chalk doodles, help us keep the gyms clean by redirecting that creative energy to some mind-blowing beta.
When ya gotta go, you gotta go…..
… but PLEASE take your climbing shoes off before entering the bathroom. When you walk into the restroom wearing those sticky soles, you pick up germs and grime. Then you stick your foot back on the wall, someone else grabs that hold with sweaty hands, and nobody wants that. So if you need to go, slip your climbing shoes off, save the grippy rubber for the wall.
Beta on Beta: Ask Before You Share Moves
Giving unsolicited advice is called “beta spraying,” and it’s a major buzzkill. Before you drop moves, props, or a secret beta on someone’s project, ask if they’re looking for tips. If they want help, great. If not, let them work it out; everyone’s crux is their own puzzle.
Tidy Up Your Zone
After your session, give a glance around and put the borrowed gear back where it belongs. Move your bag, shoes, or water bottle out of walkways and landing zones. A clean gym feels welcoming, and it prevents accidents. Little acts of consideration go a long way to keep the space inviting.
Respect All Levels of Climbers
Every climber has their own journey. You might breeze through V5 problems while someone else is tackling their first V1. Skip backseat beta and focus on your own sends. A nod, a smile, or a simple “Nice send” acknowledges someone’s effort without overshadowing their experience.
Follow the Rules
The gym orientation video and posted policies exist for a reason. They protect you and the climbing walls. If you ever have a question about a rule or a technique, ask a staff member. Staying within the guidelines helps prevent injuries and keeps the gym open for everyone.
Bring Your Stoke, Not Your Ego
Climbing is about falling, sending, laughing, and learning. Leave the ego at the door and bring your enthusiasm instead. Celebrate your own wins, cheer on others, and keep the stoke alive. A gym filled with happy climbers who support each other is the best kind of gym to train in.
Climbing gym etiquette does not need to be complicated. A little awareness and a friendly attitude will make every session more enjoyable for you and everyone around you.