Do you need a bouldering-specific chalk bag? This question is similar to ones like, “Do you need a pair of shoes specific to running?” Or “Do you need a proper pair of hiking shoes?”
You only need these items if you spend a substantial time doing the activity they’re associated with.
90% of my climbing is bouldering, because I don’t have someone to belay me most of the time. Because of this, I wondered if I needed a chalk bag that’s purposely built for bouldering. (Especially since I don’t like to spend money on myself, and I could keep using my normal chalk bag and powder chalk.)
But that’s like running or hiking every day in your nice pair of everyday shoes.
Can you do it? Yes. Should you do it? No.
Designed for Bouldering
My cousin loves to hunt and has really nice gear that’s designed for it. Whenever we speak with one another, we talk about the different types of gear he has or wants to get. Through these conversations I’ve learned that his shoes have to be durable, tough, light, warm, and preferably waterproof.
When we talk about rock climbing, we either discuss sport climbing or bouldering. (Because these are the two types of climbing most common in rock gyms.) And he always remembers two unique things about bouldering.
It’s done on a small wall without a rope. And it’s very technical.
These are the two things a chalk bucket is perfect for. Since the walls are lower, you don’t need to carry chalk for the entire route. And with the technical moves, you don’t want any additional weight or objects to get in your way.
Because of these criteria, nearly all bouldering chalk buckets are designed to be large and not hold powder chalk. This is why they’re called “buckets.” They have a large base so they’re stable, and a wide opening to grab and apply solid chalk.
Chalk Bricks
Solid chalk, or chalk bricks, are best for bouldering. You’re able to apply the chalk to specific areas on your hands that are heavily used on a route.
For example, I’ve been working on a V5 boulder problem that’s on a 25° angled wall. The route solely uses small pocket holds that I can only get my middle and ring fingers into. Because of this, I don’t need chalk anywhere else. Something a chalk brick is perfect for. I just put chalk on those fingers and start climbing.
Just like powder chalk, there’s a multitude to choose from. But the one that’s the best bang for your buck, and has yet to let me down, is this CAP Barbell Gym Chalk.
It’s the best of both worlds; price and quality.
The Bucket to Get
There’s ton of options out there for chalk bags and buckets. However, the one I recommend most is the DMM Chalk Bucket.
It’s surprisingly light, versatile, and durable.
The lightness is unexpected due to its large size, tough fabric construction, and a lot of features. The versatility comes from all the extras like brush loops, carabiner attachment points, and side pockets.
For example, the brush loops and side pockets aren’t particularly helpful when indoors. Most gyms provide brushes, hand tape, first aid kits, or any other items you need when climbing outdoors. But when you’re not indoors, and you bring these supplies yourself, then the DMM Chalk Bucket is so nice to have.
However, my all-time favorite features of this bag are the carrying handles and drawstring closure.
I’m a bit of a clean freak, and these two additions help keep both the bucket and the rest of my gear from getting covered in chalk. I have yet to find any chalk chunks, crumbs, or powder in my gear bag.
The Recap
If you spend most of your climbing time bouldering, then I highly recommend you get a chalk bucket. It makes your bouldering sessions less stressful and more time efficient. You start to notice where a certain problem is working your hands the most, where to apply more chalk.
This change can help you better notice and reflect other aspects of your climbing too. Whether it’s where you need to apply chalk, or how to position body on the wall.
A chalk bucket, especially the one from DMM, offers both versatility and simplicity every time you start a route.
Happy climbing!