FIRST TIME OUTDOOR BOULDERING - OUR TIPS FOR WELL-EQUIPPED CLIMBING!

With bouldering, there's no need to worry about handling, knots, quickdraws, ropes and so on. Bouldering outdoors is a great way to learn about rock climbing. Even though outdoor bouldering requires little technical equipment, you'll want to arrive at the crag well-prepared - we've got all the tips you need!

STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR CLIMBING SITE

Distance, proximity and accessibility

The first step to a successful outing is to choose the right destination.

One thing's for sure: look at the distance you'll have to travel by car, and if you're going by gang, carpool! It's a greener alternative, and a good way to share transportation costs and build team spirit.

Find out how close you are to the crag. The length of the approach hike depends on the distribution of the boulders, which can vary greatly from one place to another.

Check the accessibility of the site. To do this, ask yourself questions like, "Is there parking nearby?", "Where are the passable trails?", "What type of terrain will we encounter?" Consider a bouldering site that offers a variety of problems suited to your level and climbing preferences. For a first visit, we recommend an area with a good concentration of boulders.

* Beware of pitfalls, for example: a boulder that looks great in the photo, but is isolated and has no other interesting boulders around, may not be the best choice for a first outing. By taking these factors into account, you'll be able to maximize your climbing time. 

Where to find information?

1/ Topos: this is a guide-book that will give you all the information you need for your outdoor climbing outings: parking, access to boulders, level of difficulty, safety and appreciation.

2/ Online or on apps: Mountain Project and TheCrag are two platforms that can help you make your boulder selection. On the other hand, a paper topo remains the most reliable solution. Once in the wilderness, it's very likely that the network will be unavailable.

3/ Have a guide with you: A topo is great, but having a friend who knows the bouldering site and can give you advice is even better! Ideally, you should have both. 

STEP 2: GET THE RIGHT GEAR

You've chosen your climbing spot, now it's time to get your gear! Finding the right gear for your first outing can be a real headache... don't worry, we'll help you!

Crash Pads

The crash pad is an essential protective mattress to cushion your falls. Unlike in the gym - outdoors, you need to bring your own crash pad. You need at least one pad - ideally, several. It's important to define your fall zone and make sure you have spotters to move the pads so you don't fall to the ground. Make sure it fits in the car, or on the roof if you don't have a spacious car.

Climbing shoes

Your gym shoes will suffice, but don't be surprised if you find that climbing on rock is a little more difficult than in your gym. Outdoors, foot holds are often very small and precise - stiffer shoes will help you improve your performance. Also, your shoes will wear out much faster, so a more durable rubber is preferable.

Chalk bag

Obviously, you need a chalk bag. Any size will do, but buckets are ideal for bouldering. Outdoors, there's no table to put your chalk on and you'll have to move the pads while your partner climbs. Inevitably, you'll spill your chalk. Opt for a self-sealing chalk bucket to avoid spilling chalk everywhere.

Brushes

You'll need a brush to clean the grips of excess chalk and dirt. Grip is even more important outdoors than indoors, so having clean grips is key. At the crag, there are holes and crevices all over the place, so attach your brush to your chalk bag or you risk losing it as quickly as you bought it.

Backpack for bouldering

Choose a backpack with several compartments to organize and access your gear easily. If you have a crash pad, your rucksack should fit inside it to make it easier to move around on the approach walk.

The essentials

Remember to take a rubbish bag with you to collect your garbage. The "pack-in, pack-out" principle is essential to preserve our climbing sites. We love nature and want to keep it clean. Finally, don't forget your guidebook, water bottle, snacks, toilet paper and first-aid kit! 

Outdoor climbing is an exciting challenge! If you're just starting out, expect a rather demanding transition; it's likely to be harder outside than in the gym, and you'll have to learn new skills and adjust your approach. Adopt a learning mindset, so you can adapt well to this type of climbing. Enjoy the outdoors and have fun!