[Backpack Boss]

Hey everyone! So I’ve been climbing for a while now, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that chalk is like the trusty sidekick of every climber. I mean, without it, we’d all be slipping and sliding more than a cat on a hardwood floor! Today, I want to share my top three climbing chalks that I swear by to keep my grip as solid as my friendship with pizza (which is saying something). I’ll lay down some mini reviews for each of these chalks, along with a little buyer’s guide to help you pick the right one for your chalkation. So let’s get to it!

• 🎉 FrictionLabs Gorilla Grip
• 👌 Metolius Super Chalk
• 🌟 Black Diamond White Gold

[Backpack Boss]

FrictionLabs Gorilla Grip

So, picture this: I’m halfway up a gnarly pitch, fingers desperately clawing at tiny crimps, and I’m about as chilled as a pinata at a bat convention. Enter FrictionLabs Gorilla Grip! This little bag of magic got tucked into my chalk bag recently, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer.

First impression: This stuff feels like it was concocted by some mad climbing wizard who decided that regular chalk just wasn’t cutting it. The texture is something else entirely. It’s got this softness that feels like a fluffy, powdery cloud of grip-enhancing goodness. I almost expected to see unicorns doing pull-ups each time I opened the bag.

Why I dig it:

• Superior Grip: I’ve tried a bunch of other chalks, and Gorilla Grip sticks better than my cat on a laser pointer. I swear I could hold onto a greased watermelon after a good dip.
• Stay Dry, My Friends: It seems to hang onto your hands longer without having to re-chalk every five moves. Perfect for those sketchy overhangs where you’d prefer not to let go.
• Skin Friendly: It doesn’t feel like I went two rounds with sandpaper after a climb, which as you can imagine makes my rock-worn hands pretty happy.

Personal story: So, I tried the Gorilla Grip on a real beast of a route that had been defeating me for weeks. After chalking up with this magic dust, I felt like Spider-Man scaling the Empire State Building. The holds that once felt like they hadn’t been paid their rent became as sticky as honey on a hot day. I topped out and did an impromptu happy dance, which probably looked like I was being electrocuted.

I’m not saying this will instantly turn you into a climbing demi-god, but it sure ups your game a few notches. Plus, knowing that it’s got less of the harmful stuff compared to traditional chalk makes it easier for me to excuse using it with such abandon.

In short, if you’re on the fence about buying FrictionLabs Gorilla Grip, go ahead and give it a try. Just be prepared to seriously surprise yourself with what you’ll stick to next. Happy climbing!

[Backpack Boss]

Metolius Super Chalk

So, here I am to discuss one of my all-time favorite climbing accompaniments, the Metolius Super Chalk. Honestly, I used to think that chalk was just chalk until I got my chalk-dusted hands on this magical stuff. Now, I’m not saying it’s the secret to scaling El Cap in a day, but it’s definitely a confidence booster!

The Grip: Let’s talk about sticky fingers – and no, I’m not referring to the Rolling Stones album. This chalk has some kind of voodoo that makes my grip feel like Spidey on a boulder. On sweaty, summer days, it’s like the chalk genuinely anticipates my flops and fails, providing that extra layer of security. It’s basically like having a trusty sidekick that promises not to bail on you mid-crux.

Absorption: If humidity were a climbing partner, I’d ghost it every day of the week. Thankfully, this super chalk seems to absorb moisture like it’s absorbing all of my climbing insecurities. Seriously, I’ve gone through entire sessions without feeling my hands slipping. Game changer.

Application: I had a moment of existential doubt when I first shoved my hand in the chalk bag – like, am I about to bake a cake at the climbing gym, or what is this powdery delight? Spoiler alert: No, it doesn’t come with a recipe. But what it does is coat your hands in a thin, even layer without clumping, making you feel like you could basically hang off a ledge forever – possibly forever-ever.

Here’s an unsolicited list of what I love:

• Prevents sweaty hand disasters
• Makes me feel like a climbing superhero
• Lasts longer than most climbing relationships (whoops, did I say that?)

Since switching to Metolius Super Chalk, I no longer feel like I’m just winging it. It doesn’t hurt that it’s reasonably priced either, so I don’t have to dumpster dive behind climbing gyms to save for actual climbing gear.

Do I recommend this? Yes, with chalky hands and a huge, goofy grin on my face. Your hands will thank you by not failing you mid-route, and you too can enjoy the illusion that you’re a climbing legend (at least in your own mind).

For those curious climbers wanting to know more about this magnificent powder, check it out here: Metolius Super Chalk. Now, go forth and conquer those routes!

[Backpack Boss]

Black Diamond White Gold

So, here’s the scoop, folks: I recently got my hands chalky with the Black Diamond White Gold chalk. And let me tell you, climbing with this stuff feels like upgrading from a rusty Fiat to a sleek Ferrari—minus the ridiculous insurance premiums!

First things first, this chalk is so pure, I half expected it to come with a certification from a Swiss chocolatier. Seriously, it goes on smooth and keeps my hands dry longer than my last attempt to bake sourdough (and trust me, that was an all-day affair). Those sweaty hands that make you feel like you’re scaling the walls of a sauna? Gone. Poof!

I was a bit skeptical at first—after all, this isn’t the cheapest chalk in town. But one bouldering session in, I saw the light. Or rather, I didn’t see any more hand slippage, which, frankly, is even better. My grip felt solid, like I could take on the world or at least pretend to be Alex Honnold for a hot second.

• Grip-tastic: My grip felt invincible, even on those deceptively smooth crimps that look like they should come with a warning label.
• Long-lasting dryness: I didn’t have to chalk up every five minutes. Seriously, I had more time to focus on my climbing (or lack of skill) rather than endlessly reapplying.
• Value for climbers: Okay, it’s a bit pricier, but can you really put a price on not face-planting? I think not.

Quote me on this:

Black Diamond White Gold is like the Beyoncé of climbing chalks—always flawless, always reliable.

In conclusion, if you’re pondering whether to splurge on this white wizardry, I’d say go for it. Your grip—and your ego after you send that problem—will thank you. Just don’t let your climbing partners borrow too much… unless they’re buying pizza post-climb.

[Backpack Boss]

Best Climbing Chalk Buyer’s Guide

Hey there fellow mountain goat enthusiasts! Are you tired of your hands slipping off holds like a greasy burrito on a tilted plate? Me too. Let’s dive into the magical realm of climbing chalk, where grip is king and sweat is the enemy. I’m here to act as your friendly sherpa through the rocky terrain of choosing the best climbing chalk. So, buckle up your harness and let’s get started!

• Loose Chalk: The classic white gold! This is what most of us probably started with. It’s cheap, it’s effective, and it gets all over everything. Loose chalk is great for people who climb indoors, outdoors, or just enjoy the sensation of being a powdered donut. Pro Tip: Keep an airtight baggie handy to prevent turning your backpack into the set of Frozen.
• Chalk Balls: Imagine a little marshmallow filled with magical grip dust. Chalk balls are perfect for those of us who don’t want to leave a trail of chalky fingerprints all over the gym. Just squeeze to release the powdery fun. They’re reusable and less messy, making them a great eco-friendly option. My cat once mistook my chalk ball for a toy—let’s just say bath time was interesting!
• Liquid Chalk: This is science and witchcraft combined! You slather some on your palms, let it dry, and voilà, no more sweaty palms. Liquid chalk is an excellent choice if you’re climbing in a gym that has ghost buster-level strictness on chalk dust. Plus, it can double as an impromptu hand sanitizer. Just a heads-up: the drying phase makes you feel like a mime stuck in an invisible box.
• Eco-Friendly Chalk: For those of us who want to save the planet while scaling its vertical surfaces, eco-friendly options are the way to go. These are made from sustainable materials and don’t contain any harmful additives. They’re as close to hugging a tree as you can get while dangling off a rock face.
• Fragrance and Additives: Want your hands to smell like a pine forest or a fruity cocktail? Some brands add scents or drying agents. Just make sure it doesn’t send you into a sneezing fit while you’re going for that big reach.

Personal Picks: I’ve personally used Friction Labs chalk, which I found to be top-notch for both my grip and ego. If you’re feeling adventurous, give liquid chalk a whirl. It does wonders when you’re climbing in a warm, sweaty setting.

Remember, choosing the best climbing chalk often comes down to personal preference and the type of climbing you’re doing. Test a few, find what works best for you, and then tackle that next climb with confidence. Happy chalking, and may the friction be with you!

[The RV Way]

Hey climbers! 🤗

Let me just say, chalk is to climbers what peanut butter is to jelly 🍇🥜. They just belong together! If you’re as passionate about chalk as I am, here’s a fun perspective: why not give your climbing chalk a *name*? It’s all in good humor, but it definitely adds character to your climbing kit. Here are some contenders:

• Sir Slips-A-Lot: Perfect for those days when your hands just sweat like a waterfall. 🧗‍♂️💧
• The Gripper!: Guarantees a firm handshake every time you hit those holds. 🤝
• Dusty McGrip: Leaves a delightful trail of ‘mountain magic’ wherever you climb. 🏞️

Whether you’re embracing FrictionLabs, Metolius, or Black Diamond, adding a personal touch can make the stoke of climbing even more fun! 😄 What would you name your trusty chalk?

[Outdoorsman Toolkit]

Hey there, fellow rock-spiders! 🕷️

Let’s face it, when you’re halfway up a crag and your hands start sweating like a spring break sauna, a little chalk goes a long way. Dive into that bucket of calcium carbonate like it’s packing mystical grip-enhancing powers! 💪

Aside from being your superhero on the rocks, chalk’s magical properties can be appreciated in so many delightful ways. Here’s how I make the most of that trusty powder:

• Chalk Art: Ever tried chalking intricate designs on my forearms before a climb? It’s surprising how a little art boosts morale when you look down (or up) and see your personal chalk masterpiece.
• Chalky Trails: Leave an artistic trail on the rock face. Post-climb, the holds look like a treasure map. 🗺️
• Chalk Snowball Fights: When climbing’s over, grab a hand and launch a friendly chalk cloud at your mates. Just remember to aim for those without goggles! 😆

So, how do you creatively use your climbing chalk? Any quirky habits or chalky traditions? Spill the powder—err, beans! 🤣

[Author]

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