Climbing is a broad term inclusive of many levels of risk while embracing a shared sense of reward. Whether tackled individualistically or as a group, problem solving lies at the heart of climbing. Stories about climbing often focus on the attempts and eventual achievement of a send or ascent.
However, the real reward often lies in the untold experiences. The shared excitement of planning a trip. The brittleness of limestone routes or the chafing of sandstone holds. The pursuit of a common goal. Shared horror at the close calls on a cliffside ledge. Arguments over the best flavor of protein bars. Draining approaches and forgotten gear.
Like our individual climbing experiences, the climbing community is incredibly diverse yet deeply connected. As the climbing footprint grows globally though, some may be tempted to focus on the differences that set climbers apart like those who climb indoor vs outdoor. The different levels of risk we each abide in our own life context. If one thing is certain though, like introducing artificial climbing walls or sport climbing instead of trad, the climbing community will overcome difference to find unity in shared struggle and passion. Together, we will better define climbing for those to come as they will redefine it to reflect their experiences for those that follow.
For the love of a sport and a lifestyle, we are every one of us a climber in our exploration of a shared frontier.
~ Kelsen Chau, co-founder of RockBase Inc.
RockBase is a Canadian app that solves for finding climbing partners indoors and outside. Their goal is to create a space which nurtures and supports a sense of community in climbing. For more information, check them out at: https://rockbase.io/
