5 Best Rock Climbing Holds of 2025

Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that challenges both the body and the mind. Whether you’re scaling indoor walls or venturing outdoors, choosing the best rock climbing holds is essential for a safe and rewarding experience.

The right holds can improve your technique, build strength, and enhance your climbing performance.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you select the best rock climbing holds based on your skill level, climbing style, and specific needs.

From durable materials to the right shapes and sizes, learn everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

What are the Best Rock Climbing Holds?

Here are the top picks of the best rock climbing holds,

VEVOR Rock Climbing Holds

TOPNEW Rock Climbing Holds

Trymaker Rock Climbing Holds

Rocky Mountain Rock Climbing Holds

Escape Climbing Rock Climbing Holds

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Rock Climbing Holds

Rock climbing has rapidly become one of the most popular outdoor sports, attracting enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.

Whether scaling natural rock faces or tackling indoor climbing walls, the right equipment can make all the difference in your climbing journey.

Among the essential gear, climbing holds are crucial in shaping your climbing experience, offering both challenge and safety.

The right set of climbing holds can enhance your training, improve your grip strength, and even boost your overall performance on the wall.

As climbing continues to gain traction, climbers—from novices just starting to explore indoor climbing gyms to seasoned experts seeking to fine-tune their techniques—are increasingly in need of quality climbing holds.

Choosing the best rock climbing holds can significantly impact your progression, training, and enjoyment.

This comprehensive buyer’s guide is designed to help you navigate the vast array of climbing holds available in the market, whether you’re building a home climbing wall, outfitting a gym, or looking for holds to use outdoors.

In this guide, we will walk you through the various types of climbing holds, what to look for when selecting the best ones for your needs, and how to maintain them for long-lasting use.

Whether you’re aiming to add variety to your training or create a fun and challenging climbing environment, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the best rock climbing holds suited to your skill level, wall type, and personal preferences.

Why Rock Climbing Holds Are Important

Safety

When it comes to rock climbing, safety is paramount, and the quality of climbing holds plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe experience.

High-quality holds are designed with texture and shape that provide better grip, which helps reduce the risk of slipping and potential injuries.

Poorly designed or worn-out holds can become slippery over time, leading to dangerous situations.

By investing in durable, well-crafted climbing holds, climbers can feel confident that their grip will stay secure, whether they’re climbing indoors or outdoors.

Properly maintained climbing holds also minimize the risk of hand and wrist strain, contributing to overall safety during each climb.

Training Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of using a variety of rock climbing holds is the impact they have on your training.

Different shapes, sizes, and textures offer various levels of challenge that help climbers develop their grip strength, finger dexterity, and overall technique.

For instance, jugs are perfect for beginners to build strength and confidence, while crimps and slopers provide the challenge necessary for improving finger strength and precision.

Using a diverse set of holds in your training routine not only improves your endurance but also develops the flexibility and adaptability needed to handle various climbing routes, whether you’re indoors or scaling natural rock formations outdoors.

Versatility

Rock climbing holds are incredibly versatile and essential for both indoor and outdoor climbing setups.

Whether you’re constructing a home wall, designing a gym space, or building an outdoor rock climbing setup, selecting the right climbing holds is vital.

Indoor holds tend to be smaller and more specialized, allowing for controlled environments that cater to specific training goals.

On the other hand, outdoor holds need to withstand the elements, which is why many high-quality holds are made from UV-resistant materials designed to endure harsh weather conditions.

The versatility of climbing holds ensures that climbers can adapt their training to different environments, optimizing their climbing experience no matter where they climb.

Whether you’re working on technique, strength, or endurance, having the right holds is key to achieving your climbing goals.

Key Features to Consider When Buying Rock Climbing Holds

When choosing the best rock climbing holds, it’s essential to consider several key features that will influence your climbing experience, training, and overall satisfaction with your setup.

These features range from the material and design to mounting options and cost. Below, we break down the most important aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The material of your climbing holds can significantly affect both performance and durability. The two most common materials are polyurethane and polyester resin, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Polyurethane

This material is highly durable and offers superior grip, making it an excellent choice for high-performance holds.

Polyurethane holds are typically lightweight, resistant to wear and tear, and provide a natural feel that’s ideal for a variety of climbing techniques.

However, they can be more expensive compared to other materials.

Polyester Resin

Known for its affordability, polyester resin holds are great for those on a budget. They are sturdy but tend to wear down quicker than polyurethane.

While their texture may not always match that of polyurethane, they are still a solid option for those seeking reliable performance for indoor climbing walls.

Both materials offer durability and grip, but your choice will depend on your specific needs, whether it’s performance-oriented or budget-conscious.

Be sure to select climbing holds with textures designed to provide the right level of friction for the type of climbing you’ll be doing.

Shape and Design

The shape and design of rock climbing holds influence your climbing style, technique, and comfort.

Different hold types are suitable for various types of climbing and can help target specific muscle groups.

Here’s an overview of the most common types of climbing holds:

• Crimps: Small, edge-like holds that require a lot of finger strength. These are ideal for advanced climbers working on finger strength and precision.
• Jugs: Large, easy-to-grip holds that are perfect for beginners and offer a comfortable and secure grip. Jugs allow climbers to rest while planning their next move.
• Slopers: Rounded holds that don’t provide any edges to grip. These require an open-hand grip and are excellent for building forearm and shoulder strength.
• Pinches: These holds are grasped between the thumb and fingers, simulating the action of pinching. Pinches are great for building grip strength and can be challenging for climbers of all levels.
• Edges: Typically used in more technical climbing, edges provide a narrow surface to grip and require precision and strength.

Beyond functionality, the ergonomics of the holds play a significant role in comfort and reducing strain on your hands and fingers.

Ergonomically designed holds allow for a more natural grip, which helps prevent injury during long training sessions.

Size

The size of the climbing holds is an essential factor that directly impacts both the ease of use and training effectiveness.

Holds for Children vs. Adults

When selecting holds for a child’s climbing wall, opt for larger, more ergonomic holds that allow them to grip comfortably.

For adults, holds can range from large, easy-to-grip jugs to small, technical crimps that require more strength and precision.

Grip Strength Training

The size of climbing holds plays a crucial role in developing grip strength. Larger holds are easier to grab and provide a more forgiving grip for beginners.

In contrast, smaller holds demand more from your fingers and hands, offering a more challenging training experience.

Climbers looking to build finger strength will benefit from using smaller holds such as crimps and pinches.

Mounting Options

Climbing holds can be mounted in a variety of ways, and the mounting options you choose will impact the overall setup of your climbing wall.

The two most common mounting methods are screw-on and bolt-on holds:

Screw-on Holds

These are typically easier to install and are more affordable. Screw-on holds are ideal for smaller walls or for those looking to create a DIY setup.

However, they may not be as secure as bolt-on holds, especially for heavier usage.

Bolt-on Holds

These provide a more secure attachment, making them the preferred option for professional climbing gyms or larger, high-traffic walls.

Bolt-on holds can withstand more weight and frequent use, providing long-term durability.

It’s essential to ensure that your chosen holds are compatible with your wall surface, whether it’s plywood, MDF, or other materials.

Some holds are designed specifically for certain types of surfaces, so consider your wall’s structure before making a decision.

Price and Quantity

When selecting the best rock climbing holds, price and quantity are important factors to consider, especially for those on a budget.

Budget-Friendly Sets

There are plenty of affordable options that offer decent quality holds in sets of 10–20 pieces.

These sets are often perfect for beginners or casual climbers looking to build a home wall without breaking the bank.

While they may not offer the extensive variety of premium kits, budget-friendly sets are still durable and functional for basic training.

Premium Kits

If you’re an experienced climber or looking for more variety, premium kits with a wide range of hold types, including technical crimps and slopers, are worth the investment.

These kits tend to be more expensive but offer superior durability, texture, and variety, allowing for more challenging and specialized training.

When balancing cost with durability, consider how often you plan to use the climbing holds and the type of climbing experience you want to create.

Investing in high-quality holds may be more expensive upfront but can save money in the long run by providing better performance and longevity.

By carefully evaluating these key features—material, shape, size, mounting options, and price—you’ll be well on your way to selecting the best rock climbing holds that fit your climbing goals and wall setup.

Maintenance Tips for Rock Climbing Holds

Proper maintenance of your rock climbing holds ensures their longevity, performance, and safety.

Over time, climbing holds accumulate dirt, chalk, and wear, which can affect their grip and texture.

By following a few simple maintenance tips, you can keep your holds in top shape and extend their lifespan, ensuring a better climbing experience.

Cleaning Tips

Climbing holds naturally accumulate chalk, dirt, and oils from your hands during use, which can make them slippery and less effective.

To maintain optimal performance, it’s essential to clean your holds regularly.

Brush Off Chalk and Dirt

For routine cleaning, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub off chalk and dirt buildup. A nylon brush is ideal, as it helps to maintain the grip texture without damaging the surface of the holds.

Mild Detergent Solution

Occasionally, you may need to use a more thorough cleaning method. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water, and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the holds.

This will help remove oil, dirt, and stubborn chalk residue that a brush might not be able to reach.

Be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid leaving soap behind, which could affect grip.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

When cleaning your climbing holds, avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents like bleach, acetone, or strong abrasives.

These can degrade the material, compromising the texture and grip of the holds. Instead, stick to natural cleaning solutions that will preserve the hold’s integrity and maintain a safe climbing surface.

Regular cleaning not only enhances the hold’s texture but also helps improve safety by reducing the chance of slipping due to accumulated dirt or chalk.

Inspection

Routine inspection is a critical aspect of maintaining your climbing holds. Over time, holds can develop cracks, chips, or signs of wear that could pose a safety hazard.

Check for Cracks and Damage

Inspect each hold regularly, especially after heavy use, for any cracks or chips in the material.

Polyurethane holds, in particular, can become brittle if exposed to excessive wear and tear, so it’s important to catch any damage early.

If you notice any cracks, it’s best to replace the hold immediately to avoid potential injuries.

Look for Decreased Grip Texture

As climbing holds age, their grip texture may begin to wear down. If the surface feels slick or smooth, this is a sign that the hold may need to be replaced or retextured.

Maintaining a good grip texture is vital for preventing slippage and injury, especially on more technical holds like crimps or pinches.

Mounting Hardware Check

Ensure that the mounting screws or bolts are tightly secured and not showing signs of rust or corrosion.

Loose or damaged mounting hardware can compromise the stability of the holds, creating potential hazards.

By regularly inspecting your climbing holds, you can catch any issues early, ensuring that your wall remains safe and functional.

Storage

Proper storage of unused climbing holds is essential to prevent damage and material degradation.

Exposure to the elements, especially UV light, can weaken the material and affect the texture of the holds over time.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

When not in use, store your climbing holds in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. UV exposure can cause the material to degrade, leading to loss of color, texture, and overall durability. A storage area that is shaded or indoors is ideal to prevent UV damage.

Avoid Damp Environments

Excess moisture can cause certain materials, especially polyester resin, to warp or weaken. Store your climbing holds in a well-ventilated area to keep them dry and prevent mold or mildew buildup.

Protect from Physical Damage

Store the holds in a box or container to keep them safe from scratches, dings, or other physical damage.

This also helps prevent the buildup of unnecessary dirt or dust while they are in storage.

By following these storage tips, you can help preserve the quality and durability of your climbing holds, ensuring they perform at their best when you’re ready to use them again.

With proper cleaning, regular inspection, and correct storage practices, you can extend the life of your best rock climbing holds and maintain their performance.

These maintenance steps are simple but crucial for keeping your climbing holds in top condition, whether you’re using them for training, indoor gyms, or outdoor walls.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rock Climbing Holds

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