Buying guide
Boulderer Starter Pack
Updated How we research
Bouldering keeps the gear list short, which makes each piece matter more. This pack covers the full kit for gym sessions and your first outdoor blocs: shoes with real toe power, a crash pad with landing-zone confidence, loose chalk plus a bucket to share at the boulder, brushes for greasy holds, and tape for when the crimps bite back. The page is split into six sections (Bouldering Shoes; Crash Pads; Climbing Chalk; Chalk Buckets; Climbing Brushes; Climbing Tape), followed by every pick ranked by our score so you can compare them in one place.
The short version
We compared 24 picks. Our scores range from 6.3 to 9.0 out of 10.
- Best overall:SCARPA Drago XT Rock Climbing and Bouldering Shoes - Specialized Performance for Sensitivity. Highest overall score in this guide at 9.0/10.
- Also great value:Bighorn Athletics Climbing Finger Tape with Retro Tin Canister, 0.5-Inch x 45-feet, 8 Rolls, Black. Value score of 9/10, overall 8.4/10.
- Solid build:Asana Superhero 'Sunshine' Bouldering Crash Pad - Deluxe Suspension, Triple Layer Dual Density Foam (57x40x4). Build and materials score of 9/10, overall 8.8/10.
- Feature-rich:Asana Hero 'Mountain' Bouldering Crash Pad - Deluxe Suspension, Triple Layer Dual Density Foam (48x36x4). Features score of 9/10, overall 8.8/10.
Scores are our editorial assessment, not customer ratings. How we score
Bouldering Shoes
- SCARPA Drago XT Rock Climbing and Bouldering Shoes - Specialized Performance for SensitivityOur score9.0/10
- SCARPA Men's Vapor V Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and BoulderingOur score8.2/10
- La Sportiva Mens Solution Rock Climbing Shoe, White/Yellow, 8.5Our score8.0/10
- EVOLV Defy Rock Climbing Shoe for Entry-Level Bouldering and Indoor ClimbingOur score7.2/10
Crash Pads
- Asana Superhero 'Sunshine' Bouldering Crash Pad - Deluxe Suspension, Triple Layer Dual Density Foam (57x40x4)Our score8.8/10
- Asana Hero 'Mountain' Bouldering Crash Pad - Deluxe Suspension, Triple Layer Dual Density Foam (48x36x4)Our score8.8/10
- VEVOR Bouldering Crash Pad, Bi-Fold Rock Climbing Crash Pad with Adjustable Backpack Straps and Handle (4x3 ft)Our score7.2/10
- BALAPET Tri-Fold Bouldering Crash Pad with Adjustable Shoulder Strap, 4 Inch Thick High-Density FoamOur score7.0/10
Climbing Chalk
- Friction Labs Gorilla Grip Climbing Chalk, Chunky Texture, 2.5 ozOur score8.4/10
- Primo Chalk 1 lb Resealable Bucket Loose Chalk for Climbing and WeightliftingOur score8.0/10
- ONCRUX Gym Chalk Blocks 8x2oz for Rock Climbing and WeightliftingOur score8.0/10
- Climb Club Premium Climbing Chalk Blocks 100% Magnesium Carbonate 2ozOur score7.6/10
Chalk Buckets
- Psychi OG Chalk Bucket Bag with Storage Pockets and Carry Strap, Light OrangeOur score7.8/10
- Bouldering Chalk Bucket Large Self-Standing Chalk Bag with Magnetic Closure, BlueOur score7.4/10
- Oso Supply Co Large Roll Down Bouldering Chalk BucketOur score7.3/10
- Chalk Bag for Rock Climbing Chalk Bucket - Large Bouldering Chalk Bag, UpgradedOur score6.3/10
Climbing Brushes
- TWO STONES Boar Hair Rock Climbing Brush with Ergonomic HandleOur score7.6/10
- Climbing and Bouldering Brush 2 Pack with Thick Boar's Hair BristlesOur score7.2/10
- Climbing Brush Bouldering Brush with Thick Boar Hair, Wooden HandleOur score6.8/10
- Rock Climbing Brush and Bouldering Brush with Boar's Hair Bristles CJ-CB2033BOur score6.5/10
Climbing Tape
- Bighorn Athletics Climbing Finger Tape with Retro Tin Canister, 0.5-Inch x 45-feet, 8 Rolls, BlackOur score8.4/10
- FRESINIDER Finger Tape - Strong Athletic Tape 0.3 Inch x 45 Feet 9 Pack Tin SetOur score8.0/10
- SCICOFIX Climbing Finger Tape - 4 Rolls (0.7 in x 30 ft) Essential Edition, Athletic Grip Support TapeOur score7.6/10
- Psychi Zinc Oxide Sports Strapping Finger Tape for Rock Climbing - White (2.5cm)Our score7.6/10
All 24 picks, ranked by our score
Every product from the sections above, listed once. Sort by the criterion you care about most, or tick up to three to compare.
#1SCARPA's Drago XT is a soft, sensitive performance shoe built for steep bouldering and feeling small footholds.
Fit for the job 10/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 7/10
- + Very sensitive design lets you feel tiny smears and volumes through the sole
- + Aggressive shape excels at toe hooks and heel hooks on overhanging problems
- + Premium SCARPA construction targets advanced boulderers pushing hard grades
- - Soft build tires the feet on long vertical routes that need edging support
- - Aggressive fit is uncomfortable for beginners and all-day wear
#2Asana's Superhero 'Sunshine' crash pad at 57x40x4 with deluxe suspension and triple layer dual density foam.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10
- + 57x40x4 size gives a large landing zone for bigger problems
- + Triple layer dual density foam balances softness and support
- + Deluxe suspension carries the pad more comfortably on approaches
- - Large pad is heavy and bulky for long hikes
- - Sunshine color shows dirt quickly outdoors
#3Asana's Hero 'Mountain' crash pad at 48x36x4 with deluxe suspension and triple layer dual density foam.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10
- + 48x36x4 size is a solid all-around pad for most problems
- + Dual density foam protects from both small and big falls
- + Deluxe suspension straps improve carrying comfort
- - Smaller than the Superhero for highball problems
- - Premium price compared with budget pads
#4Friction Labs Gorilla Grip chalk in chunky texture at 2.5 oz, a premium chalk that makes a great climbing gift.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10
- + Chunky texture gives a thick coating for sweaty hands
- + 2.5 oz pouch is a nice gift size for climbers
- + Friction Labs is a premium chalk brand loved by many climbers
- - Premium pricing is higher than basic gym chalk
- - Chunky texture may feel too coarse for some climbers
#5Bighorn Athletics' black climbing finger tape at 0.5-Inch x 45-feet in 8 Rolls with a retro tin canister.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10
- + 8 Rolls provide plenty of tape for regular training
- + 0.5-Inch width is ideal for finger joints and pulley support
- + Retro tin keeps rolls protected in a gear bag
- - Black tape shows chalk and dirt quickly
- - Half-inch width is too narrow for crack tape gloves
#6SCARPA's men's Vapor V is a moderately downturned shoe for sport climbing and bouldering with a secure strap closure.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10
- + Moderate downturn balances bouldering precision with comfort for longer efforts
- + Versatile enough for gym bouldering, outdoor sport routes and steep terrain
- + Proven SCARPA model with a reputation for a supportive, precise fit
- - Less specialized for steep bouldering than softer, more aggressive shoes
- - Men's last may need a size adjustment for climbers with low-volume feet
#7La Sportiva Solution is a high-performance men's bouldering shoe with a downturned, asymmetric shape, Vibram XS Grip rubber and a hook-and-loop closure for steep problems.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 6/10
- + Pointed, downturned and highly asymmetric shape is described for steep, powerful bouldering problems
- + Vibram XS Grip rubber and a molded 3D heel cup are listed for sticky smears and secure heel hooks
- + Laser-cut leather and microfiber upper with partial lining reduces bulk and keeps a sensitive feel
- - Listing describes a very snug performance fit that is not meant for all-day comfort or long sessions
- - Sizing runs big, so the listing advises ordering one full size smaller than usual, which complicates buying online
#8Primo Chalk's 1 lb resealable bucket of loose chalk for climbing and weightlifting, a bulk supply for regular users.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10
- + 1 lb bucket keeps a steady supply for regular gym sessions
- + Resealable lid limits spills and humidity between refills
- + Loose chalk pours straight into bags or buckets
- - Bulk tub is awkward to carry to outdoor crags
- - Loose chalk is messy when refilling in a crowded gym
#9ONCRUX gym chalk blocks in an 8x2oz pack for climbing and weightlifting, a multi-block bulk buy.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10
- + 8x2oz pack spreads chalk into manageable portions
- + Blocks store neatly and crush on demand for fresh texture
- + Good value for climbers who train several times a week
- - Crushing blocks creates dust in the car or at home
- - Blocks may be harder than loose chalk, so crush thoroughly
#10FRESINIDER's strong athletic finger tape at 0.3 Inch x 45 Feet in a 9 Pack tin set, a slim tape for fingers.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10
- + 9 Pack gives lots of tape for climbers who train often
- + 0.3 Inch width is precise for small finger joints
- + Tin set keeps rolls organized and protected
- - Very narrow tape needs multiple wraps for support
- - Lesser-known brand compared with climbing tape makers
#11Psychi's OG chalk bucket bag in light orange with storage pockets and carry strap, a full-featured bouldering bucket.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Storage pockets hold brushes, tape and small items
- + Carry strap makes moving between boulders easy
- + Light orange color is easy to spot at the crag
- - Bright color shows dirt and chalk stains
- - Extra pockets add bulk compared with simple buckets
#12Climb Club's premium chalk blocks in 100% magnesium carbonate at 2oz, a simple block chalk for crushing into a bag.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + 100% magnesium carbonate means no added drying agents or fillers
- + Block form lets you crush chalk to the texture you prefer
- + 2oz block is easy to toss in a gym bag for a few sessions
- - Blocks need crushing before use, which adds mess
- - 2oz runs out fast for climbers who chalk up constantly
#13TWO STONES' boar hair climbing brush with an ergonomic handle, a comfortable brush for cleaning holds.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Boar hair bristles clean chalk without damaging holds
- + Ergonomic handle makes brushing easier on long sessions
- + Great for both gym and outdoor bouldering
- - Single brush does not reach tight pockets as well as a thin brush
- - Brand is less known than Metolius or Sublime
#14SCICOFIX climbing finger tape Essential Edition, 4 Rolls at 0.7 in x 30 ft for athletic grip support.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 8/10
- + 4 Rolls of 0.7 in tape cover finger taping and small wraps
- + Essential Edition keeps cost down for regular taping
- + Width sits between thin finger tape and wide crack tape
- - 30 ft rolls are shorter than many bulk tape rolls
- - Lesser-known brand, so adhesive performance is less proven
#15Psychi's white zinc oxide sports strapping tape at 2.5cm, a climbing tape for fingers, pulleys and hand wraps.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Zinc oxide tape gives firm support and strong adhesion
- + 2.5cm width works for finger joints and palm wraps
- + White tape is the classic choice for climbing and bouldering
- - Check the roll length so you buy enough tape for a full season
- - Zinc oxide adhesive can leave residue on skin
#16A large blue self-standing bouldering chalk bucket with a magnetic closure, a convenient chalk pot for sessions.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 8/10
- + Self-standing design stays upright at the base of problems
- + Magnetic closure seals chalk quickly between attempts
- + Large size fits big hands and lots of chalk
- - Check stitching and seams on arrival since chalk buckets see heavy use
- - Magnetic closure can open if the bag is tipped
#17Oso Supply Co's large roll down chalk bucket, a bouldering chalk pot that seals by rolling the top closed.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Roll down closure helps keep chalk from spilling in transit
- + Large bucket size is ideal for bouldering sessions
- + Brand focuses on climbing and outdoor accessories
- - Roll top takes longer to open than magnetic closures
- - Check for a side pocket before buying if you like extra storage
#18The Evolv Defy positioned as an entry-level bouldering shoe, giving new boulderers a flat, forgiving option for indoor walls.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10
- + Flat, comfortable fit is easy on the feet during repeated falls and topouts
- + Affordable choice for new boulderers building technique before upgrading
- + Durable enough to handle the scuffing common on gym bouldering walls
- - Flat profile makes steep toe hooks and heel hooks harder than aggressive shoes
- - Not a performance shoe, so progressing boulderers will outgrow it quickly
#19VEVOR's bi-fold bouldering crash pad at 4x3 ft with adjustable backpack straps and handle, a budget pad for outdoor boulders.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 9/10
- + Bi-fold design is simple to open and fold between problems
- + Backpack straps make carrying to boulders easier
- + Budget price suits new boulderers building a pad collection
- - 4x3 ft landing area is small for high or sketchy problems
- - Foam quality is less proven than dedicated climbing brands
#20A 2 Pack of climbing and bouldering brushes with thick boar's hair bristles, a value set for gym and crag.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 9/10
- + 2 Pack lets you keep one in the bag and one at the gym
- + Thick boar's hair bristles clean holds effectively
- + Great value for climbers who lose brushes often
- - Brand details are missing from the title
- - Brushes may be less durable than premium models
#21BALAPET Tri-Fold Bouldering Crash Pad with Adjustable Shoulder Strap, 4 Inch Thick High-Density Foam
BALAPET's tri-fold bouldering crash pad with an adjustable shoulder strap and 4 inch thick high-density foam.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 8/10
- + 4 Inch thick high-density foam cushions typical boulder falls
- + Tri-fold design avoids a weak center hinge
- + Budget-friendly option for casual outdoor bouldering
- - Shoulder strap is less comfortable than backpack straps
- - Lesser-known brand, so foam longevity is uncertain
#22A climbing brush with thick boar hair and a wooden handle, a classic bouldering brush for chalky holds.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 8/10
- + Thick boar hair bristles remove chalk buildup
- + Wooden handle offers a natural, sturdy grip
- + Simple design is easy to carry in a chalk bucket
- - Check bristles stay firmly set after the first few cleaning sessions
- - Wooden handle can swell if left damp
#23A boar's hair rock climbing and bouldering brush sold as model CJ-CB2033B, a budget tool for scrubbing chalky holds.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 5/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 8/10
- + Boar's hair bristles lift greasy chalk without scratching plastic or rock
- + Compact brush slips into a chalk bucket side pocket
- + Low cost makes it fine as a backup brush in the car
- - Model-number listing gives no detail on handle shape or length
- - Single short brush struggles to reach high holds without a stick
#24A large upgraded bouldering chalk bag bucket, a budget chalk pot for gym and outdoor bouldering.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 5/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 7/10
- + Large bucket fits plenty of chalk for long sessions
- + Upgraded design suggests improved stitching or closure
- + Budget price makes it easy to try a chalk bucket
- - Compare the upgraded features against the standard version before buying
- - Check stitching and closure quality once the bucket arrives
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Based on the last 28 days of search and visitor data.
Climbing Nest curates picks for US shoppers. Scores are our editorial assessment. We may earn a commission from links on this page.