Buying guide
Gift Guide for Climbers
Updated How we research
Shopping for a climber is easy once you know what wears out and what they keep putting off buying for themselves. This guide collects reliable wins at every budget: small but thoughtful climbing gifts, training books they will reread, balm for trashed skin, belay glasses that save necks, liquid chalk for sweaty projects, and a proper harness upgrade for the women on your list. The page is split into six sections (Climbing Gifts; Training Books; Hand Repair Balms; Belay Glasses; Liquid Chalk; Women's Harnesses), 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 6.4 to 8.6 out of 10.
- Best overall:The Rock Climber's Training Manual by Michael L. Anderson PhD and Mark Anderson. Highest overall score in this guide at 8.6/10.
- Also great value:Training for Climbing: The Definitive Guide to Improving Your Performance by Eric Horst. Value score of 9/10, overall 8.6/10.
- Solid build:Petzl Luna Women's Climbing Harness - Coral Red. Build and materials score of 9/10, overall 8.6/10.
- Feature-rich:Friction Labs Gorilla Grip Climbing Chalk, Chunky Texture, 2.5 oz. Features score of 8/10, overall 8.4/10.
Scores are our editorial assessment, not customer ratings. How we score
Climbing Gifts
- Friction Labs Gorilla Grip Climbing Chalk, Chunky Texture, 2.5 ozOur score8.4/10
- Rhino Valley Climbing Chalk Bag No Leak Drawstring with Adjustable Belt | Carabiner Clip and Zippered Pockets Chalk Bag for Rock Climbing, Cross Fit, Weight Lifting & More, Black & Royal BlueOur score7.4/10
- Escape Ceramic Climbing Hold Mug, 12 oz Coffee Cup for BoulderersOur score7.1/10
- KNDSDRY Rock Climbing Keychain with Mini Bouldering Hold | Climbing Accessories for Climbers, Sport Style Key Ring and Bag Charm for Backpacks, Purses, and Handbags for Women MenOur score6.4/10
Training Books
- The Rock Climber's Training Manual by Michael L. Anderson PhD and Mark AndersonOur score8.6/10
- Training for Climbing: The Definitive Guide to Improving Your Performance by Eric HorstOur score8.6/10
- 9 Out of 10 Climbers Make the Same Mistakes by Dave MacLeodOur score8.3/10
- The Rock Climber's Exercise Guide by Eric HorstOur score8.0/10
Hand Repair Balms
- Rhino Skin Solutions Repair Cream - Soothing Relief for Dry, Cracked Skin, Ideal for Climbers and Athletes (1 fl oz)Our score8.1/10
- climbOn The Original, All Purpose Mini Lotion Bar - Aromatherapy Balm for Dry Cracked Skin, 0.5 oz TinOur score7.8/10
- climbOn All Purpose Lotion Bar - Aromatherapy Balm Helps Soothe and Moisturize Dry Cracked Skin (0.5 Ounce Tube)Our score7.6/10
- KletterRetter Hand Repair Balm for Dry Cracked HandsOur score7.1/10
Belay Glasses
- YY Vertical Plasfun Evo Belay Glasses - Orange EditionOur score8.2/10
- YY Vertical Plasfun Evo Belay Glasses - Black EditionOur score8.2/10
- YY Vertical Plasfun First Belay GlassesOur score7.8/10
- BG Climbing Belay Glasses for Rock Climbing - Prism Glasses for BelayingOur score7.3/10
Liquid Chalk
- Friction Labs Secret Stuff Liquid Chalk, Alcohol Free BlendOur score8.1/10
- ONCRUX Liquid Gym Chalk - Long Lasting Liquid Grip Chalk for Climbing 2 fl ozOur score7.6/10
- SpartaFlex 250ml Pro Liquid Chalk for Weightlifting, Rock Climbing, GymnasticsOur score7.2/10
- SPRI Liquid Chalk 50ml Bottle - Gym, Lifting, Rock Climbing, Weightlifting ChalkOur score6.6/10
Women's Harnesses
- Petzl Luna Women's Climbing Harness - Coral RedOur score8.6/10
- Petzl Luna Climbing Harness - Women'sOur score8.3/10
- Petzl Luna Women's Harness for Multi-Pitch ClimbingOur score8.3/10
- Petzl Corax LT Women's Climbing Harness - Coral SandOur score8.0/10
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.
#1The Rock Climber's Training Manual by Michael and Mark Anderson, a structured periodization guide for committed sport climbers.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 9/10
- + Lays out season-long training phases instead of random workouts
- + Written by climbers who used the system on their own hard projects
- + Detailed hangboard and campus protocols suit data-minded trainers
- - Dense, program-heavy approach can overwhelm casual gym climbers
- - Assumes access to a home board or well-equipped training space
#2Training for Climbing by Eric Horst, a broad guide to strength, technique and mental skills for improving performance.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 9/10
- + Covers physical, technical and mental training in one reference
- + Eric Horst is one of the most widely read climbing training authors
- + Useful for climbers from first-year boulderers to seasoned leaders
- - Broad scope means individual topics get less depth than niche books
- - Some training ideas have evolved since earlier editions
#3Petzl's Luna women's harness in coral red, a comfortable women-specific design for sport, trad and multi-pitch.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10
- + Women-specific shape fits a narrower waist and wider hips
- + Coral red color is easy to identify in a shared gear pile
- + Well padded for comfort on long multi-pitch days
- - Heavier than minimal women's sport harnesses
- - Color choice is fixed, so it may not match your other gear
#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
#59 Out of 10 Climbers Make the Same Mistakes by Dave MacLeod, a candid look at the habits that stall climbing progress.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 9/10
- + Focuses on common mistakes rather than generic training plans
- + Dave MacLeod brings experience from hard trad, sport and winter climbing
- + Thought-provoking read that changes how you plan sessions
- - Few ready-made workout plans for readers who want a program
- - Opinionated style may not suit everyone
#6The women's Petzl Luna, a proven harness cut for women that balances padding, gear loops and all-day comfort.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10
- + Contoured waistbelt and leg loops fit a female shape more naturally
- + Comfort for hanging belays makes it a strong multi-pitch choice
- + Petzl build quality lasts through regular gym and crag use
- - Listing does not specify size, so check your waist and thigh range
- - Costs more than basic women's gym harnesses
#7Petzl's women's Luna billed for multi-pitch climbing, a padded harness for long routes and hanging stances.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10
- + Multi-pitch focus means comfort holds up on long routes
- + Gear loops carry a light trad rack for moderate objectives
- + Women-specific rise helps the harness stay put when inverted
- - More harness than needed for climbers who only boulder or gym climb
- - Bulkier than the Corax LT when packed for travel
#8The orange edition of YY Vertical's Plasfun Evo belay glasses, a refined plastic-frame prism model that is easy to spot.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Evo design improves on the First model with a more refined frame
- + Bright orange color is easy to find in a pack or dropped in leaves
- + Lightweight plastic frame is comfortable for long belay stints
- - Orange styling may not suit climbers who prefer low-key gear
- - Plastic frame is not as rugged as metal-framed belay glasses
#9The black edition of YY Vertical's Plasfun Evo belay glasses, the same refined prism frame in a stealthier color.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Same Evo optics and frame as the orange version in a subtle black
- + Black frame hides scuffs and chalk marks from heavy crag use
- + Plastic construction keeps weight low when clipped to a harness
- - Dark frame is harder to spot if dropped in a dim gym or forest crag
- - Plastic arms may loosen over time compared with metal hinges
#10Rhino Skin Solutions Repair Cream at 1 fl oz, a soothing cream for dry, cracked skin in climbers and athletes.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10
- + 1 fl oz size is convenient for travel and gym bags
- + Repair cream targets cracks and dry patches
- + Designed for climbers who need recovery between sessions
- - Small size means frequent repurchasing for daily use
- - Cream may not be strong enough for deep cuts
#11Friction Labs Secret Stuff liquid chalk in an alcohol free blend, a gentler liquid chalk for sensitive skin.
Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10
- + Alcohol free formula is less drying on sensitive skin
- + Friction Labs quality makes it a favorite with climbers
- + Great as a base layer before loose chalk
- - Alcohol free blends can take longer to dry
- - Check the bottle size so you know how long it will last
#12The Rock Climber's Exercise Guide by Eric Horst, an exercise-by-exercise manual for strength and conditioning.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10
- + Exercise-focused format makes it easy to build a gym session
- + Covers antagonist and core work that climbers often skip
- + Pairs well with Horst's broader training book
- - Less guidance on technique and tactics than all-round guides
- - Photo-based exercise descriptions still need careful form checks
#13The women's Petzl Corax LT in coral sand, a lighter adjustable harness for women who climb in many settings.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10
- + LT version trims weight compared with the standard women's Corax
- + Adjustable leg loops handle leggings or bulky winter pants
- + Coral sand color stands out from the usual black and grey gear
- - Thinner padding than the Luna on long hanging belays
- - Adjustable design is slightly bulkier than fixed-leg harnesses
#14climbOn's Original mini lotion bar in a 0.5 oz tin, a compact aromatherapy balm for dry cracked skin.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10
- + Mini tin fits easily into chalk bags and pockets
- + Original formula is widely trusted by climbers
- + Soothes and moisturizes skin after climbing days
- - Mini size lasts only a short time with daily use
- - Balm feel can be greasy right after application
#15YY Vertical Plasfun First belay glasses, an entry model from the brand that popularized prism belay glasses.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10
- + From the pioneer of belay glasses, so the prism optics are well established
- + Entry model keeps cost down for climbers trying belay glasses for the first time
- + Plastic frame is light enough to wear through a full session
- - Entry frame is less refined than the Evo or Classic versions
- - Plastic build can scratch or crack if dropped on the ground at the crag
#16climbOn's all purpose aromatherapy lotion bar in a 0.5 Ounce tube, a handy balm for soothing dry cracked skin.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + 0.5 Ounce tube is easy to apply without dirty fingers
- + Aromatherapy scent makes post-climb skin care more pleasant
- + Moisturizes dry, cracked skin after chalky sessions
- - Small tube runs out quickly for climbers who use balm daily
- - Scent may be too strong for sensitive users
#17ONCRUX liquid gym chalk at 2 fl oz, a long-lasting grip chalk that fits easily in a climbing bag.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + 2 fl oz size is compact for travel and gym bags
- + Long-lasting formula reduces how often you reapply
- + ONCRUX offers liquid and loose chalk to pair together
- - Small bottle empties fast for daily training
- - Liquid chalk needs time to dry before climbing
#18Rhino Valley chalk bag with a no-leak drawstring, adjustable belt up to 42 inches, carabiner clip and zippered pockets, a practical low-cost gift for a new climber.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 8/10
- + Adjustable woven belt extends to 42 inches and a carabiner clip gives two ways to wear it.
- + Dacron outer with a soft corduroy lining is described as water and abrasion resistant.
- + Zippered pockets and a no-leak drawstring cover keys and small items at a price near 12 dollars.
- - Listed at about 6.5 by 5 by 2.8 inches, it is a small bag and not a large bouldering bucket.
- - The listing mentions no brush holder detail, so check this if you want to carry a brush on your belt.
#19BG Climbing's prism belay glasses let you watch your leader without craning your neck through long sport sessions.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + Prism lenses redirect your view upward so your neck stays neutral
- + Useful for projecting sessions where you belay the same route for ages
- + Climbing-specific brand designed around belaying rather than general optics
- - Pack a separate case since these prism lenses can scratch loose in a bag
- - Prism view takes a few sessions to judge distance and slack comfortably
#20SpartaFlex Pro liquid chalk at 250ml, a multipurpose liquid chalk for climbing, lifting and gymnastics.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10
- + 250ml bottle offers good value for regular training
- + Multi-sport formula works for climbing and gym lifting
- + Liquid base layer helps reduce chalk dust indoors
- - Not climbing-specific, so texture may differ from dedicated brands
- - Needs a few minutes to dry before climbing
#21Escape's ceramic climbing hold mug, a 12 oz coffee cup shaped for boulderers who want a fun gift.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 7/10
- + Climbing hold design makes it a memorable gift
- + 12 oz size is right for a morning coffee before the gym
- + Ceramic build feels nicer than novelty plastic mugs
- - Ceramic mug is fragile and not for crag packs
- - Novelty design may be awkward to hold for some
#22KletterRetter's hand repair balm for dry cracked hands, a climber-named balm for mending split fingertips.
Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 7/10
- + Formulated for climbers whose skin cracks from chalk and rough rock
- + Balm format stays on skin overnight for deeper repair
- + Useful after back-to-back sessions when tips start to split
- - Check the tin size to judge value before buying
- - Balm can soften calluses if applied heavily before climbing days
#23SPRI liquid chalk in a 50ml bottle, a compact liquid chalk for gyms, lifting and rock climbing.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 7/10
- + 50ml bottle is small enough to carry in a pocket or chalk bag
- + Liquid chalk offers longer grip for training sessions
- + Good for trying liquid chalk without buying a large bottle
- - 50ml runs out quickly for frequent climbers
- - Formula is more gym-focused than climbing-specific
#24KNDSDRY keychain shaped like a mini bouldering hold, 3D printed in PLA at about 1.4 inches, a small low-cost gift for climbers who want a nod to the sport on their keys.
Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 5/10 · Value 7/10
- + Dodecahedron shape with a mini rock feature gives a recognizable bouldering hold look on a key ring.
- + Lightweight PLA construction at about 3.5 cm adds almost nothing to keys or a backpack.
- + Priced under 10 dollars, an easy add-on gift for new climbers or seasoned boulderers.
- - It is a decorative charm and not a working tool, unlike a self-assembly cam kit.
- - 3D printed plastic is described as lightweight, so expect it to suit light daily use rather than rough handling.
Popular right now
- The Best Climbing Nuts and StoppersBuying guide
- Best Belay DevicesBuying guide
- Best Headlamps for ClimbersBuying guide
- Bouldering vs Rope ClimbingArticle
- Climbing Photography BasicsArticle
- The Best Climbing SalvesBuying guide
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.