Climbing Hold - Other Materials

Other Materials

A company called Voo Doo Holds out of Arizona, USA has long used a softer mixture for their holds and included a rubber-like backing on each hold in an effort to prevent the holds from spinning. This technique has had mixed success, as eventually the rubber backing begins to peel away from the wall, providing a similar unintended handhold as the chipped resin might. The softer mixture is more durable than a brittle resin, but with uneven climbing walls and overtightening these holds develop slow cracks that eventually render the hold useless.

Synrock, from the east coast of the United States, has been experimenting with combining synthetic rock with slippery hard plastic. The texture of these holds is quite like outdoor rock, allowing hold shapes that would be dangerous with a more slippery material.

Outdoor-only handholds mass produced for children's play equipment are usually manufactured from durable plastic. These holds are too slick for most climbers, but they are good for play sets because they are sturdy and weather resistant. Outdoor holds are made out of material with additives that prevent color deterioration due to UV exposure - untreated holds will turn pale brown under extended exposure to sun light.

Nicros, a hold company from the midwest U.S., is currently developing a corn and soy based resin. The goal is an environmentally friendly hold material that is also light and durable.