The Best Climbing Brushes

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Friction is the currency of climbing, and caked chalk plus rubber steadily devalues every popular hold. A good brush restores texture that no amount of extra chalk can fake, which is why brushing before attempts is standard practice on boulders and cruxes alike. Brushes vary in bristle material, with boar hair generally cleaning better and nylon lasting longer, plus head size, stiffness, and handle designs from pocketable sticks to poles that reach high crux holds. We weighed cleaning effectiveness on caked and glassy holds, bristle durability, head shape for pockets and small edges, and handle comfort, along with compatibility with extension poles. Boulderers should carry a full-size boar hair brush as a default, sport climbers working routes will want a brush that mounts to a stick clip or pole, and gym climbers can happily run the cheaper nylon options that shrug off daily abuse.