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How do I Choose the Best Portable Rock Climbing Wall?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A portable rock climbing wall is great for parties and events, and when choosing the best portable rock climbing wall for your event, you must consider more than just the wall itself. Rock climbing is an inherently dangerous sport that requires trained professionals to be onsite when the portable rock climbing wall is in use. Be sure to research the professionals who will be running the wall and make sure they know the proper safety precautions that must be taken when the wall is in use. They should also have all the proper rock climbing equipment available, and they should be trained in first aid to handle an accident should one occur.

Different versions of these rock climbing walls will come in different sizes and shapes, meaning they can accommodate different ability levels. A smaller wall with easier handholds will be perfect for a child's birthday party, while a taller wall with more challenging climbing routes will be more appropriate for older age groups and more experienced climbers. Walls can get quite tall, so the potential for an accident can be significant; it is vital that you choose a portable rock climbing wall that is delivered and run by professionals with extensive knowledge of climbing safety and techniques, regardless of the size or shape of the wall.

Woman posing
Woman posing

The portable rock climbing wall rental should include all necessary safety equipment. This category includes ropes, carabiners — metal clips that support the weight of the climber — harnesses, climbing helmets, and in some cases, climbing shoes. Before renting the unit, be sure to ask how often the safety equipment gets used, how often it gets inspected, and how often it gets replaced. Like other types of sporting equipment, climbing equipment can wear out and should be replaced if it poses a danger to the climber.

Choose a wall that is easy and quick to set up and take down. Many portable walls come mounted to a truck that can raise the wall quickly using a hydraulic lift. The wall can then be secured in place for the duration of the event. Other portable rock climbing walls are meant for regular home use and come in prefabricated panels that must be mounted correctly before use. Choose a modular design that is easy to install and tear down, and one that secures properly with little effort. Be sure to choose the correct type of wall; some walls are meant to be used exclusively indoors, while others are made for indoor or outdoor use. Using an indoor wall outside can damage the holds or the wall itself.

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