Why do your hands sweat so much while climbing?
TL;DR: Sweaty hands during climbing usually come down to a mix of exertion, nerves, and how your body regulates temperature, not just one cause. It...
3 min read
Field Notes
From the team.
Chalk, climbing, and whatever else.
More from Field Notes
What to expect the first time you climb granite in Squamish
TL;DR: Squamish granite feels nothing like gym holds. It's grippier when dry, slick when even slightly damp, and the friction comes from texture an...
3 min read
Loose chalk, chalk ball, or liquid: which one should you actually use?
TL;DR: Loose chalk gives you the most control over texture and how much you apply. Chalk balls are mess-contained but limit you to whatever's packe...
4 min read
How to actually store your chalk so it doesn't clump
TL;DR: Magnesium carbonate, the mineral in all climbing chalk, is hygroscopic, meaning it naturally absorbs moisture from the air around it. Keepin...
3 min read
How much chalk should you actually be using?
TL;DR: Less than most people use. A thin, even coat across your palms and fingers does the job. Piling on more chalk than that mostly ends up on th...
3 min read
What to actually expect in your first month at the climbing gym
TL;DR: You need less gear than you think to start (shoes and a harness or bouldering pass, plus chalk), and most of what trips up new climbers is e...
4 min read
Why your chalk keeps quitting halfway through a session
TL;DR: Most chalk on the market is straight fine or straight chunky, so you're stuck with one texture for the whole session. POUFF blends both, 80%...
5 min read
Why chalk is regional
1 min read