What is it?
Bouldering is one of the simplest forms of climbing to get involved with. You may even have done it already without knowing. It requires minimal equipment to get started - if any at all. Climbing shoes, a boulder pad and chalk will get you off to a good start.
There are natural boulders all over Scotland, literally so many you are unlikely ever to have enough time to visit them all. Most climbing walls also have bouldering areas and some walls are bouldering specific, with no roped climbing.
It is a very popular sport in its own right and some climbers will focus purely on bouldering and not participate in any other of the climbing disciplines. It’s also a great way to train for the other types of climbing and can help improve your technique and strength.
Looking after yourself
Bouldering involves you being off the ground, so you do need to be switched on while enjoying the challenges. A boulder pad can help to soften your landing when gravity wins.
Things to think about:
- What does your landing look like? Is there any uneven ground or rocks you want to avoid?
- Can you climb down instead of jumping off?
- If your climb finishes on top can you get off easily? If not, can your lunch be passed up to you?
Outdoor Venues
New boulders are being discovered in Scotland all the time and there is so much potential for new routes. Fancy creating your own climb and naming it? Then go do it!
Why not take a trip to
Lednock Boulders.
Or why not check out your
local bouldering wall. Want to know more?
Bouldering in Scotland is developing at such a fast pace that there is a range of selected and local self-published guides available. Here is a selection of current guides, however, the best source of information for up to date info, videos, new on-line guides and topos see BoulderScotland.
BoulderScotland,
Scottishclimbs or
SMC guidebooks.