Bouldering is climbing in it's simplest form, it doesn't involve the use of ropes, harnesses or protection. Often a test of technique and strength, bouldering is about climbing the problem. Problems are what the routes are known as, this is because often the boulderer needs to work out the sequence of moves to get to the top.

To start out bouldering all you need is a pair of climbing shoes, with their sticky rubber and close fit, these really do make a difference. Our rock shoe survey combined with the article on fitting shoes should help guide you to the shoes to suit your needs and feet.

Now the rest of the boulderers paraphernalia, some will make you climb that bit better, some improves confidence and the rest will make you look the part, but it’s only you that can get to the top!

Chalk Bucket.

Boulderers tend to opt for large chalk bags that generally don't leave the ground. They have large openings, pockets for brushes and are often quite communal. But a traditional chalk bag works just as well and are useful on traverses.
See our range of Chalk Bags

Brushes.

Some have a complete arsenal of various brushes, but probably the most common are the toothbrush style. Though toothbrushes are okay brushes such as the M16 or Lapis brush with it’s Hog hair bristles, really do clean holds that much better. To clean those out of reach holds then an extendible pole, with a larger brush attached, may be of use. I find the best way to attach the brush is by using cable ties.
See our range of Brushes

Finger Tape.

Injuries, particularly to tendons in fingers are common in climbing and boulderers seem to suffer their fair share. Finger tape is not a cure and can only support, if you’re injured then rest or seek medical advice. Tape can also be used to protect areas of the hands where a particular sharp hold may be causing discomfort, or sticking down a ‘flapper’, a skin tear often deep and bloody.
See our Finger Tape

Bouldering Mat.

Probably one of the most significant developments in bouldering kit. These can turn an heinous ankle twisting landing into a good landing. Generally they are filled with around 5-7cm of shock absorbing open cell foam topped with 2.5cm of closed cell foam, this distributes the impact across the whole of the mat.
See our Bouldering Mat range

Spotters.

These are the guys that watch your back, with their hands aloft, as you get high. And when you fall, ensure you land on the mat. Don’t expect them to catch you!
Sorry but we do not sell spotters.

Also consider what you wear, a good pair of loose fitting climbing trousers with a diamond crotch have unrestricted movement, take a look at the Moon Cypher pants. Combined with a T-shirt is normally the way to go. But as the weather cools down and the friction improves you may require better layering. Take a look at some thermal base layers such as from Odlo, combine these with a Polartec Powerstretch fabric mid layer and possibly a wind top and you should be comfortable in the cooler months. But should the temperature turn really Baltic then no boulderer is without a down jacket.