First Time Visitors
You may be wondering what you should expect on your first visit. We will try to make your first visit as positive an experience as possible.
First, there is the waiver; every climber must have a current waiver on file. Like most legal documents, the wording can be intimidating. Rest at ease, Wall Crawlers has a spotless safety record. Wall Crawlers is dedicated to providing a safe environment where climbers can enjoy the climbing experience and feel comfortable learning new skills.
Next, let us discuss the climber's apparel. We recommend loose fitting lightweight pants or shorts and a t-shirt that goes well over the waist. Dress in layers, the gym is cool in the winter and warm in the summer. Adding and removing layers is the key to staying confortable. All jewelry needs to be removed and long hair tied back.
Footwear; you can climb in your street shoes; these shoes should be laced tight and fit well. Wear socks or bring socks with you just in case you want to rent a pair of our climbing shoes. Climbing shoes are made to be super snug around your feet. Think discomfort but not pain. They are made of special "sticky" rubber that will enhance your climbing abilities.
All climbers and belayers will need to wear a harness. We will provide a harness to all new climbers.
After gearing up you will take a belay (rope-managing) lesson from one of our staff. Climbers age fourteen and above, depending on maturity and attention span, can learn to belay. The lesson is hands-on, simple, straightforward and free of charge. We make sure you are well versed before letting you head off to explore the walls on your own.
Parents when you bring your children in to climb be prepared to belay for them. Wall Crawlers staff may assist when they have time but they have many other duties that may take priority.
In total outfitting and training usually takes no more than 20-30 minutes and then you are off and climbing. Always feel free to ask a Wall Crawlers Staff Member for advice or help at any time.