Mountain Project Logo

Favorite Gym/Outdoor Climbing Bag Features?

Original Post
Nick Vernotico · · Prescott Valley, AZ · Joined Jul 2020 · Points: 0

Just to give  context, I am trying to create a product for a class at my university. I want to develop a gym/outdoor bag that would appeal to the community. I love bouldering at my local gym, however I do enjoy climbing outside as well when I rarely get the chance.  Just trying to see who out there on this forum own a climbing bag, and what their favorite features are.  If you can, disclose where you are from? I live in Prescott, AZ.  

Just trying to develop a hypothetical bag that can appeal to the climbing community! Thanks!

Jess Arnold · · SLC · Joined Jan 2017 · Points: 173

It would probably be worth the time to do a little more user research, depending on how specific the parameters are for your class project. Different types of climbers (boulderers, sport climbers, alpinists, etc.) will use different features due to the nature of their vein of climbing. Think a built-in tarp for sport climbers, ice tool securement points for alpine climbers, haul loops for those climbing chimneys, etc. Retailers like Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, Arc'teryx, Mammut, BD (just to name a few) have a full gamut of climbing pack options; you can certainly take inspiration there. I'd identify your primary user/type of climber first, unless you are looking to prototype a jack-of-all-trades kind of bag. I think this will make your life easier. From a product designer's perspective, less is often more. :) 

Personally, I primarily trad climb and spend long days outside. I love my Arc'teryx Alpha AR 35L for longer days/light overnights and my Patagonia Linked 18L for multipitch when I don't need to haul as much. Features I like on both/either packs: user-friendly cinch tops, super abrasion-resistant outer fabrics, seamless attachment points on the outside to clip gear/etc. when needed (that don't get caught while bushwhacking, etc.), ability to haul, waist straps, rope coil straps.... the list goes on. Durability is an important factor for me, as I often climb on granite and put my packs through the wringer. 

Here's a good resource for some in-depth reviews of recent models: https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/climbing/best-climbing-backpack., which might give you some insight into different needs and/or features that you could iterate on. 

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Climbing Gear Discussion
Post a Reply to "Favorite Gym/Outdoor Climbing Bag Features?"

Log In to Reply
Welcome

Join the Community! It's FREE

Already have an account? Login to close this notice.