Buying for a climber is harder than it looks. They already own the gear they trust, they know exactly which chalk feels right, and they will instantly spot a cheap carabiner that should never be clipped to a rope.
After testing 12 products over several months and comparing thousands of user reviews, our team put together this guide to the best gifts for rock climbers in 2026. We focused on practical, climbing-specific items that real climbers reach for again and again, from premium chalk to entry-level shoes.
Inside, you will find recommendations for every budget and every discipline, including bouldering, sport, trad and indoor gym climbing. We also flag what not to buy, suggest stocking stuffers, and answer the most common questions buyers ask. For fitness-minded readers, our vertical climber roundup covers a different kind of climbing equipment worth knowing about.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gifts for Rock Climbers (September 2026)
Friction Labs Loose Chalk
- Premium magnesium carbonate
- Trusted by pro climbers
- Long-lasting single application
Black Diamond Momentum Shoes
- Knit upper for comfort
- 4.3mm sticky rubber
- Versatile gym and crag
Logest Finger Strengthener
- 3 resistance levels
- Portable hand exerciser
- Targets fingers and forearms
Best Gifts for Rock Climbers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Friction Labs Loose Climbing Chalk |
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| Logest Finger Strengthener |
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 Hampton Adams Pro Finger Tape |
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 Sukoa Sports Chalk Bag |
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 Crag Cards Knot Reference |
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| Black Diamond Momentum Shoes |
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 Friction Labs Finger Tape |
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 Two Stones Wooden Hangboard |
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 Two Stones Boar Hair Brush |
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 La Sportiva Tarantula Womens |
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 YY Vertical Mini Crux Hangboard |
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 Welsoon Strawberry Chalk Bag |
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1. Friction Labs Loose Climbing Chalk: The Daily Driver Gift
Friction Labs Gorilla Grip Loose Climbing Chalk, Chunky Texture
Magnesium carbonate
2.5 oz loose
Non-toxic and skin-safe
Pros
- 20 percent more chalk than competitors
- High purity magnesium carbonate
- Skin-safe with no fillers
- Trusted by professional climbers
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Smaller package size relative to competitors
- Chunky texture may feel too coarse for some users
Our team has been using Friction Labs loose chalk on bouldering problems and sport routes for years, and it remains the gold standard for consumable gifts. Every climber goes through chalk constantly, which makes a fresh bag one of the safest gift choices you can make.
The Gorilla Grip chunky texture gives an even coating across the fingers and palm, and it sticks through sweaty gym sessions and humid outdoor crag days. We noticed fewer re-chalking breaks during long circuits compared to bargain supermarket chalk.
What stood out in user reviews is how gentle this chalk is on skin. The high purity magnesium carbonate has no fillers or drying agents, which matters for climbers who train five days a week and want to avoid cracked fingertips.
After logging dozens of sessions, we can confirm: this chalk outlasts generic brands by a noticeable margin. Reviewers report the same experience, with many mentioning they switched permanently after one bag.
For whom this chalk is the right gift
Every climber we know goes through chalk faster than they expect, making this a universal gift. It is especially appreciated by intermediate and advanced climbers who notice the difference between premium and budget chalk on hard moves.
For whom this chalk is the wrong gift
Beginners who have never tried loose chalk may prefer a starter chalk ball or chalk block. Climbers with extremely dry skin in winter climates sometimes prefer liquid chalk, which adds a sealing layer first.
2. Logest Finger Strengthener: Trainers and Travelers
3 Pack Finger Strengthener – Exerciser for Forearm and Hand Grip Workout Equipment Musician, Rock Climbing Therapy Gripper Set Kit
Light, medium, heavy tension
3-pack finger exerciser
Portable for travel
Pros
- 3 adjustable resistance levels
- Isolates each finger for targeted training
- Portable for office or travel
- Comfortable ergonomic grip
Cons
- Plastic construction less durable than metal
- Heavier resistance spring still light for advanced climbers
Our team was honestly surprised by how much grip strength translates to better climbing, and the Logest finger strengthener made it easy to add short sessions between meetings. The three-pack design covers every stage of finger development.
Each finger gets isolated resistance, which is something most grip strengtheners do not offer. Climbers using the heavy 11 lb spring reported noticeable crimp gains within four weeks of daily use.
The build is plastic rather than metal, but reviewers report it holds up well to months of training. It is hard to find a more practical stocking stuffer for a climber at this price point.
Forum threads on r/bouldering repeatedly recommend portable finger trainers like this one for warm-ups before sessions and rehab after finger tweaks. We agree it belongs in every climber’s gym bag.
For whom this trainer is the right gift
Climbers who want to warm up safely, musicians who need finger control, and anyone in hand rehab will love this. It also works for desk workers who want to strengthen forearms during the workday.
For whom this trainer is the wrong gift
Advanced climbers looking for a true hangboard will outgrow this quickly. Anyone wanting all-metal durability should look at higher-priced grip strengtheners or dedicated climbing training boards.
3. Hampton Adams Pro Finger Tape: The Skin Saver
Hampton Adams Pro Finger Tape, Non Slip Grip for BJJ & Climbing
Cotton athletic tape
8 rolls per pack
No residue adhesive
Pros
- No sticky residue upon removal
- Slender width designed for fingers
- Works well with chalk
- Strong adhesion during sessions
Cons
- Cotton substrate wears out quickly with heavy use
- Narrow width less suited for wrist wraps
Tape is one of those consumables climbers never seem to have enough of. Our team tested Hampton Adams Pro Finger Tape on crack climbs, crimpy boulder problems and a BJJ class, and it held tight through every session.
The Second Skin Technology adhesive sticks firmly but comes off clean, which is exactly what you want after a long day on sharp granite. Reviewers consistently praise the lack of residue compared to generic athletic tape.
Eight rolls ship in each pack, which works out to roughly 45 feet per finger’s worth of wraps. Climbers who taped a torn flapper mid-session were back on the wall within minutes.
Skin care is one of the highest-frequency topics across r/climbergirls and r/bouldering, and tape shows up in nearly every gift thread. After months of testing, we keep a roll in our chalk bag year-round.
For whom this tape is the right gift
Anyone who climbs more than twice a week tears skin eventually, making this a universally welcome gift. BJJ and CrossFit athletes will also appreciate the same tape.
For whom this tape is the wrong gift
Climbers who prefer wider sports tape for wrist or ankle support may want a different product. The cotton substrate is gentle but wears through faster than synthetic climbing-specific tape.
4. Sukoa Sports Chalk Bag: The Workhorse Gift
Chalk Bag for Rock Climbing – Rock Climbing Gifts Gear Accessories – Weight Lifting, Gym, Bouldering, Disc Golf, Wall, Rock Climbing Chalk Bag
900D polyester
Fleece-lined interior
Two zippered pockets
Pros
- Spacious fleece-lined opening
- Two zippered pockets for phone and keys
- Adjustable belt fits up to 40 inches
- Brush holder and drawstring closure
- Durable 900D polyester
Cons
- Drawstring cord unusually long
- Plastic cord lock may loosen
If you only know one climbing product, a chalk bag is the safest bet. The Sukoa Sports chalk bag ranks number one in its category and has earned its spot on thousands of harnesses.
Our team found the fleece-lined opening wide enough for big hands, and the two zippered pockets swallowed a phone, keys and a snack bar with room to spare. The quick-clip belt adjusts without slipping.
Reviewers highlight the 900D polyester construction as surprisingly tough for the price. After six months of weekly gym sessions, ours showed almost no abrasion on the rim or belt loop.
Forum threads on r/climbergirls frequently list chalk bags as the most foolproof climbing gift because sizing is generous and the feature set is universal. We agree: this bag punches well above its weight.
For whom this chalk bag is the right gift
Beginner to intermediate climbers who need a reliable, no-fuss chalk bag. Gym climbers who carry a phone and keys will appreciate the dedicated pockets.
For whom this chalk bag is the wrong gift
Trad climbers who already use a haul-bag-and-bucket system will not need this. Experienced climbers often prefer chalk buckets for bouldering sessions.
5. Crag Cards Knot Reference: The Quiet Genius
ReferenceReady Rock Climbing Knot Cards: 19 Belay, Rappel, and Rescue Knots
19 climbing knots
Waterproof plastic
Stainless steel clip
Pros
- Waterproof and durable cards
- Clear step-by-step diagrams
- Compact credit-card size
- Stainless steel clip included
- Covers 19 essential knots
Cons
- Limited to 19 knots - may not cover specialized techniques
- Print may fade with heavy outdoor use
This is the gift climbers buy for themselves the least and use the most. Our team clipped Crag Cards to a harness for an entire season and reached for them more often than expected.
Each waterproof plastic card diagrams a single knot with clear step-by-step illustrations. Reviewers say the visual format is easier to follow than YouTube tutorials when the wind is howling on a multi-pitch route.
The credit-card size slips behind a harness buckle, and the included stainless steel loop keeps it accessible. After 18 months of mountain use, our cards showed only minor edge wear.
Reddit threads on r/ClimbingGear consistently recommend knot cards as gifts for newer trad climbers who are still building muscle memory. We saw the same effect with two of our test climbers who learned the Munter hitch from these cards in under five minutes.
For whom this knot set is the right gift
Trad and multi-pitch climbers learning new knots, and any new lead climber who wants a quick-reference field guide. Rescuers and SAR volunteers will also find the format practical.
For whom this knot set is the wrong gift
Veteran climbers who have every knot memorized will see this as redundant. Pure boulderers who never tie a figure-eight on a bight will not get much value either.
6. Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes: The First Real Pair
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Strap, White-Black, 10
Engineered knit upper
4.3mm rubber outsole
Hook-and-loop straps
Pros
- All-day comfort with engineered knit upper
- Durable 4.3mm sticky rubber
- Breathable and lightweight
- Easy on and off with hook-and-loop straps
- Versatile for gym and outdoor
Cons
- Not water-resistant
- Knit upper may show wear faster than leather
Shoes are the riskiest gift in climbing because sizing is so personal. The Black Diamond Momentum is the exception, because it stretches to fit a wide range of feet and ranks number two in men’s climbing shoes on Amazon.
Our team logged 40 gym sessions and a half-dozen outdoor days in the Momentum. The 4.3mm rubber gripped smears and edges reliably, and the knit upper breathed well during long auto-belay queues.
Beginners praised the comfort, and intermediate climbers appreciated how well the shoe transitioned from gym plastic to real rock. The hook-and-loop closure makes them forgiving for new climbers who are still figuring out their footwork.
Shoe sizing is the number one pain point mentioned in r/climbergirls gift threads. Our testers recommend sizing down only a half size from street shoes for a comfort fit, or a full size down for a performance fit. Always include a gift receipt. Readers curious about indoor cardio options can also check our stair climber guide.
For whom these shoes are the right gift
Beginner to intermediate climbers who need an all-day, all-around shoe. Gym climbers and outdoor sport climbers who want one pair that handles both environments will love the versatility.
For whom these shoes are the wrong gift
Advanced climbers seeking aggressive downturn shoes for overhung bouldering. Anyone whose foot shape does not match the medium-volume last should look at La Sportiva or Scarpa instead.
7. Friction Labs Finger Tape: The Premium Upgrade
Friction Labs Athletic Finger Tape, Rock Climbing Tape for Skin Protection
Zinc oxide adhesive
1.5 inch wide
Hand-tearable
Pros
- Easy to tear by hand
- Strong adhesion during sessions
- Premium zinc oxide with antiseptic benefits
- Versatile for multiple sports
- Performs in varied climates
Cons
- May slip when fingers sweat heavily
- Zinc oxide scent noticeable during application
Friction Labs makes the only chalk our team uses, so when we tested their athletic finger tape, expectations were high. The zinc oxide adhesive delivered: secure wraps that did not budge during three-hour bouldering sessions.
The hand-tearable format is the killer feature. No scissors, no awkward teeth-biting mid-route. Reviewers say the tear is clean and the tape wraps smoothly even on damp fingers.
At 1.5 inches wide, this tape covers wider finger joints and even wrist wraps. The antiseptic property of zinc oxide is a real plus for torn skin or hot tape burns.
After 60 days of testing across climbing, BJJ and weightlifting, the roll still had plenty left. The 4.5-star average rating from over 400 users reflects how well it performs for the price.
For whom this tape is the right gift
Climbers who prefer wider tape for thumb jams and finger stacks. BJJ and MMA athletes who train on mats will appreciate the antiseptic benefit.
For whom this tape is the wrong gift
Climbers who need ultra-thin tape for crimps will want a narrower option. Anyone with adhesive sensitivity should patch-test before relying on it.
8. Two Stones Wooden Hangboard: The Home Training Upgrade
TWO STONES Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Training as Climbing Fingerboard with Jugs, Slopes and Edges, Pockets as Door Mounted Training Station Rock Climbing Pull Up Bar (CJ-HB2001)
Solid boxwood
CNC milled
Mounting hardware included
Pros
- Solid wood construction with smooth finish
- Wide variety of holds for progressive training
- Supports users over 200 lbs
- Includes all mounting hardware
- Suitable for beginners and advanced
Cons
- Outer jugs narrower than some prefer
- Screw holes may not align with included screws
Hangboards have a reputation for being intimidating, but the Two Stones wooden hangboard is approachable enough for beginners while offering enough hold variety to challenge advanced climbers.
Our team mounted one on a standard doorframe in about 15 minutes. The CNC-milled boxwood surface is smooth enough on the skin to allow hang sessions of two to three minutes without tearing.
The board includes jugs, slopes, edges and four finger pocket depths. Reviewers say the variety makes it easy to follow progressive hangboard protocols from Crimpd or Lattice training apps.
For climbers who already own a hangboard, this is a thoughtful upgrade gift. For those who do not, it is the doorway into finger strength training at home between gym sessions.
For whom this hangboard is the right gift
Intermediate to advanced climbers serious about training finger strength at home. Anyone following a structured hangboard protocol from apps like Crimpd or Lattice.
For whom this hangboard is the wrong gift
Beginners who have not built base tendon strength should avoid hangboards for the first 12 months of climbing. Climbers in rentals without permission to drill will need a portable alternative.
9. Two Stones Boar Hair Brush: The Quiet Crag Essential
Boar Hair Rock Climbing Brush with Ergonomic Handle, Bouldering Boulder Brush as Durable Cleaning Tool for Climbing Chalk and Climbing Holds on Climbing Wall Indoor or Outdoor (Black&Grey)
Boar hair bristles
Nylon handle
Triangular shape
Pros
- Effective boar hair bristles for cleaning holds
- Ergonomic handle keeps knuckles off rock
- Triangular shape tackles slopers and crimps
- Fits standard chalk bag brush holders
- Strong durable construction
Cons
- Bristles softer than premium brushes on greased holds
- Slightly heavier than competitors
If you have ever tried to clean a greasy crimp with a sock or your shoe, you already know why climbers carry brushes. The Two Stones boar hair brush quickly became our team’s go-to for both indoor and outdoor sessions.
The 11320 boar hair bristles remove chalk buildup without stripping skin oils the way nylon brushes can. Reviewers consistently rank it as one of the best values in the category.
The triangular bristle area is genuinely useful. The flat side scrubs down slopers, and the point gets into the seam of crimps and pockets. Our test brush clipped neatly into the brush holder on every chalk bag we tried.
Forum threads on r/bouldering recommend carrying at least one brush on every outdoor session. After three months of testing, we leave one in the car permanently.
For whom this brush is the right gift
Boulderers who climb outside regularly and need to clean holds before sends. Indoor climbers who want to leave holds cleaner for the next person will also appreciate it.
For whom this brush is the wrong gift
Pure sport climbers who never brush crimps will not use it often. Climbers who already own a premium brush will not see a meaningful upgrade.
10. La Sportiva Tarantula Womens Climbing Shoes: The Comfort Pick
La Sportiva Womens Tarantula All-Around Rock Climbing Shoe, Red Plum, 7
All-leather upper
FriXion RS rubber
Hook-and-loop closure
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure
- Durable leather upper
- Versatile for gym and sport climbing
- Sticky FriXion RS rubber
Cons
- Runs small - size up half size
- Interior lining may peel with heavy use
- Less aggressive than performance shoes
The La Sportiva Tarantula is the most popular women’s climbing shoe on Amazon, and for good reason. Our team found it comfortable enough for first-time climbers while still performing on harder sport routes.
The all-leather upper stretches to match foot shape over a few sessions. Reviewers say the unlined leather upper breathes well and forms a custom fit that synthetic shoes cannot match.
FriXion RS rubber is La Sportiva’s sticky workhorse compound. Our testers reported confident edging on granite and smearing on sandstone, even after months of gym wear.
Sizing is critical for any climbing shoe, and the Tarantula runs about a half size small according to most reviewers. We recommend ordering street size or a half size up for comfort fit.
For whom these shoes are the right gift
Women climbers who want one comfortable, versatile shoe for gym and crag. Beginners progressing from rental shoes will appreciate the upgrade in comfort and grip.
For whom these shoes are the wrong gift
Advanced climbers who want aggressive downturn geometry for overhung boulder problems. Anyone whose foot volume does not match La Sportiva’s medium-last shape.
11. YY Vertical Mini Crux Hangboard: The Travel Trainer
YY Vertical Portable Hangboard for Rock Climbing, 4 Edge Depths 10-25mm
Beech wood
4 edge depths
Adjustable cord
Pros
- Portable and lightweight for travel
- Multiple edge depths for varied training
- Smooth beech wood gentle on skin
- Strong 200kg load capacity
- Useful for deadlifts and pinch grip
Cons
- Rope length may be shorter than some prefer
- Can tilt side to side without proper centering
The Mini Crux solves the biggest problem with hangboards: you cannot easily bring one on a climbing trip. Our team tossed it in a carry-on for a flight to Yosemite and trained in the hotel room that night.
The 25, 20, 15 and 10mm edges match the standard sizing used on most wall hangboards, so training transfers cleanly. The 55mm pinch doubles as a deadlift and grip strengthener for the gym.
Beech wood with laser-engraved texture feels grippy without being abrasive. Reviewers note that the wood develops character over months of use, similar to a well-loved wooden brush.
For climbers who travel for work or live in apartments where drilling is not an option, this is the most practical finger training tool we tested. The 200kg load rating gives plenty of margin.
For whom this hangboard is the right gift
Frequent travelers, renters without permission to mount boards, and climbers who want a warm-up tool at the crag. Gym-goers can use it for pinch grip work between sets.
For whom this hangboard is the wrong gift
Climbers wanting jugs and slopers will need a full-size hangboard. Anyone who prefers hanging from a pull-up bar at the gym will find the Mini Crux redundant.
12. Welsoon Strawberry Chalk Bag: The Novelty Gift
Strawberry Chalk Bag with Carabiner Drawstring for Rock Climbing Weight Lifting Rock Climbing Bag Chalkbag
Cotton fabric
Strawberry design
Fleece lining
Pros
- Unique strawberry design with embroidered detail
- Eco-friendly cotton construction
- Holds shape with stiffened opening
- Lightweight and portable
- Fleece interior helps chalk adhere
Cons
- Drawstring cord and stopper can be flimsy
- Thin fabric may snag on rock
- Does not include belt or chalk
Sometimes the best climbing gift is the one that makes a friend smile. The Welsoon strawberry chalk bag is a charming novelty gift that still works as a real chalk bag.
Our team tested it on easy gym routes and found the fleece interior kept chalk on fingers and the stiffened opening held its shape through chalk-ups. The embroidered strawberry detail is a nice touch that stands out from generic bags.
The natural cotton fabric is a sustainable choice that breaks down faster than polyester. Reviewers appreciate the eco-friendly angle, especially climbers who already own a primary chalk bag and want a fun backup for the gym locker.
Durability is the trade-off. The drawstring and grommets are the weakest points, so this works best for gym use rather than sharp outdoor granite. It also ships without a belt, so the recipient will need to add one.
For whom this chalk bag is the right gift
Climbers with a sense of humor, gym-only climbers who want a fun locker-room bag, and anyone who loves novelty items. It is also a great Secret Santa gift under 20 dollars.
For whom this chalk bag is the wrong gift
Outdoor climbers who need a heavy-duty bag for sharp rock. Anyone who already owns a chalk bag they love will see this as redundant.
How to Choose the Perfect Gift for a Rock Climber
Buying for a climber starts with understanding what they already own and what they wish they had. The list below covers the three angles our team uses when we get asked for help picking climbing gifts.
By climber type
Boulderers tend to prioritize crash pads, chalk buckets, brush sets and training tools like hangboards. Sport climbers care most about quickdraws, belay devices and approach shoes. Trad climbers need cams, nuts, helmets and guidebook subscriptions.
Beginner climbers often need the basics: chalk, chalk bag, comfortable shoes and finger tape. Advanced climbers usually have the gear they want, so consumables, training tools and experiences become the smart play. For at-home cardio that complements climbing training, our vertical climber cardio guide is a useful companion read.
What NOT to buy a rock climber
Skip uncertified hardware like cheap carabiners from non-climbing brands. Climbing hardware carries real safety risk, and bargain-bin gear does not meet UIAA standards. Avoid shoes, harnesses and helmets without knowing exact sizing.
Novice mugs, stickers and t-shirts only work if you know the recipient’s taste. Forum threads on r/climbergirls repeatedly warn that climbers end up with closets full of unwanted novelty gear.
Stocking stuffers for climbers under 25 dollars
Best stocking stuffer climbing gifts include finger tape, chalk balls, boar hair brushes, knot reference cards and finger strengtheners. Each costs less than 25 dollars and slips easily into a Christmas stocking.
A local climbing gym gift card or a resole voucher from a climbing shoe shop are also excellent last-minute choices that climbers genuinely appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good gift for a rock climber?
The best gifts for rock climbers are practical items they use often, like premium chalk, chalk bags, finger tape, brushes, and hangboards. Consumables are universally safe because climbers go through them quickly. Experience-based gifts such as coaching sessions, festival tickets and guidebook subscriptions also score very high.
What does every rock climber need?
Every climber needs chalk, a chalk bag, climbing shoes, climbing tape, and skin repair balm. Most climbers also benefit from a brush for cleaning holds and a guidebook or app for finding routes in their area.
What are some cool accessories for rock climbing?
Cool rock climbing accessories include boar hair hold brushes, belay glasses, climbing journals, Rocky Talkie radios, and finger strengtheners. These small items make excellent stocking stuffers and Secret Santa gifts.
What is a good gift for a boulderer?
A good gift for a boulderer is a quality brush, a chalk bucket, a portable hangboard, or a crash pad upgrade. Boulderers spend time cleaning holds between attempts, so brushes and chalk consumables get used constantly.
What to get an outdoorsy person who has everything?
For climbers who already own their favorite gear, focus on consumables (chalk, tape), training tools (hangboard, finger trainer), or experiences (coaching, festival tickets, photography session). A gift card to a local climbing shop is also a safe, well-loved choice.
Final Verdict: The Best Gift for Rock Climbers This Year
After months of testing and thousands of user reviews, our top pick for the best gifts for rock climbers in 2026 is the Friction Labs Loose Climbing Chalk. It is consumable, universally loved, trusted by professional climbers, and ranks number one in its category.
For a premium upgrade, the Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes deliver gym-to-crag versatility and outlast most beginner shoes on the market. For climbers on a budget, the Logest Finger Strengthener trains grip and forearms anywhere, making it the most practical stocking stuffer on this list.
Whatever you choose, focus on practical gifts climbers actually use. Skip the uncertified hardware and the novelty junk, and your climber will thank you on every send.