Chalk It Up: How to Choose the Right Chalk Bag

When you’re between a rock and a hard place– don’t be without your chalk bag.

If you’re one of the millions of climbers into bouldering or rock climbing, you need the right equipment. You have your harness, rope, belay, and carabiner– but you need a dependable chalk bag.

Your equipment determines the failure or success of a climb. We’ve put some tips together for you to find the right bag for you!

What is a Chalk Bag?

Glad you asked! A chalk bag is a small pouch climbers wear on a belt to carry their chalk with them.

The chalk is magnesium carbonate– a substance that improves your grip and friction by absorbing any moisture or sweat you may get on your hands while climbing.

The bag goes behind you, set near your lower back or hip. Unlike other gear, a chalk bag is a great way to express your personality and style.

The Three Sizes

Small, Half-Hand Bag

Only need a little chalk for a short climb? Want to carry less weight? You need a small bag.

They fit half your hand or the tips of your fingers. When you don’t need excess equipment, this should be your first choice.

Standard, Whole Hand

The standard rock climbing chalk bag allows you to cover your entire hand when in use. This is the most common bag size for climbers because it’s size allows for quick access and convenience.

If you are serious about climbing or need extra chalk for a longer and more rigorous climb, use this over the small bag.

Bucket

A chalk bucket or boulder bag is a much larger bag than the two standard sizes and is meant only for bouldering.

While bouldering, you remain close to the ground and keep the bucket below you to dip your hands, rather than have it attached to your body. Because of this design, you should use loose climbing chalk over balls or liquid.

It will be ideal to have one of each size if you are a serious climber. You can never be too prepared and that way you will have options!

Design and Extras

As you shop around for a chalk bag that fits you, make sure you look for more than a container with a carabiner.

Your chalk bag should also have a place for a toothbrush, a drawstring to seal when not in use, and a lining that will keep chalk from getting everywhere.

You will also want to check for loops and attachments that will determine how you wear it and if it will swing around or remain stable.

The last thing you want to do is cause an injury or fall because your chalk bag was too difficult to reach or use.

Find Your Chalk Bag

Now that you know what to look for in the technical aspect of a chalk bag you can go forth and pick out one that fits you!

There are so many styles, colors, and fun ideas for chalk bags that you can show up and show off on the rocks.

See what 8BPlus has to offer and find a store near you!