A few years ago when I moved to New York City, I’d clip my climbing shoes to the outside of my work bag and bumble into the subway like a Sherpa. People would gawk (probably because they’d get whacked by my gear) and I’d get the occasional “What’s going on with your bag, friend?” Since then, rock climbing seems hell bent on cultural domination. On my last subway ride I spent 20 minutes waxing poetic on the intricate toe box differences between La Scarpa and 5.10 with a total stranger. It seems you can’t go anywhere in the city without bumping into another climber these days, but this wasn’t always the case.
Back in “the day”, you’d have to find someone to apprentice with to learn the ropes. Now newbies can get dirty on rock, plastic or otherwise, at a number of specialty gyms popping up all over the country. Whether you’re looking to boulder on your first date, or top rope with a few bros after work, most gyms now offer sweet all-inclusive packages to help you get in and get started fast. Some of the larger chains include Cross-fit style intensive fitness regimes or even flexible workspaces to cater to the typical 9-to-5 set. For more serious climbers who want to push boundaries like the industry’s past and current top athletes, monthly passes and transitional classes for outdoor training are available.
Speaking of athletes who truly move the sport forward, last November, climbers Alex Honnold and Kevin Jorgenson had every major media outlet watching their historic feat, and the post-climb talk show tour that followed resembled that of an Olympian. It’s taken social media by storm as well, with daring athletes racking up astounding followings on Instagram and Twitter, both social platforms being the best places to tout their latest adventures and achievements. You know the tides have turned when you see people at the crag clipping into anchors while snapping selfies.
Brands are also starting to take notice of this major shift in the market. In first-tier cities, companies like Patagonia have dedicated entire brick-and-mortar locations to alpine pursuits. Climbing-specific clothing isn’t just for climbers either. Retailers like Urban Outfitters also carry product lines that focus on this gym-to-crag lifestyle. Overall, the rock climbing set is capitalizing on weekend warriors and casual pursuers, focusing more on inclusion and less on the elite.
With a notable boom in both retail and within climbing gyms, the future looks bright for the sport. Organizations like the Access Fund have been pouring more resources into preservation and training the influx of climbers on how to respect each other and the land. It’s nice to know that, regardless of your gym frequency, there’s a spot in the community for you. Many things have changed since the first piton hit rock, but climbers are still some of the nicest people we know. Just make sure you don’t Hang Dog on the wall for 30 minutes while checking in your entire crew on Facebook.
Eric
