Superstitions and Rituals in Climbing – Strange Habits Before Big Challenges
Climbing is a sport that demands both physical and mental strength. And when facing a difficult route, some climbers turn to more than just skill—they rely on superstitions, rituals, and lucky charms.
From touching a specific rock before climbing to wearing the same pair of "lucky" shoes, these quirky habits help climbers feel confident and in control. But what are some of the strangest climbing rituals out there?
1. Lucky Climbing Shoes – Never Changing a Winning Pair
Many climbers swear by a particular pair of shoes. Even when they start falling apart, they refuse to replace them, believing "If I send my hardest route in these, they must be lucky!"
🎭 The Ritual: Wearing the same shoes for every big climb.
⚠️ The Downside: Eventually, the shoes wear out, but superstitious climbers struggle to let them go.
2. The Pre-Climb Rock Tap – Seeking Blessings from the Wall
Some climbers develop a personal connection with the rock and have a ritual of tapping or touching it before starting a climb. It’s almost like asking for permission—or hoping the rock will be kind that day.
🎭 The Ritual: A small tap, a gentle rub, or even a whispered word to the rock before beginning the ascent.
⚠️ The Downside: None—unless you start talking too much and weird out your climbing partners!
3. The Chalk Bag Shake – A Signature Pre-Climb Move
Ever noticed how some climbers shake their chalk bag the exact same way before starting a tough climb? For many, it’s an unconscious ritual that helps calm nerves and focus the mind.
🎭 The Ritual: Three shakes, a deep breath, and then go!
⚠️ The Downside: Might waste a bit of chalk, but hey, if it works, it works.
4. Lucky Charms & Totems – Climbing with a "Guardian"
Some climbers carry small lucky objects—a piece of rope from their first climb, a tiny rock from a special place, or even a stuffed toy clipped to their harness. These items serve as reminders of past successes or personal motivations.
🎭 The Ritual: Bringing a lucky object on every big climb.
⚠️ The Downside: If you forget it one day, it might mess with your confidence.
5. Wearing the Same Clothes – The "Winning Outfit" Theory
Just like athletes who refuse to wash their "lucky socks," some climbers stick to the same t-shirt, pants, or bandana when attempting hard routes. The idea? If it worked once, it’ll work again.
🎭 The Ritual: Wearing the same outfit for every big climb.
⚠️ The Downside: Over time, your climbing partners will notice the smell.
6. A Pre-Climb Mantra – Mental Reprogramming
Climbing is as much a mental game as a physical one. Many climbers repeat a phrase or mantra before a tough move—something like:
🔹 "Trust your feet."
🔹 "Breathe. Stay calm."
🔹 "You got this."
🎭 The Ritual: Repeating a phrase before attempting a tough route.
⚠️ The Downside: Saying it too loudly might make others think you’re casting a spell.
7. Eating a Specific Pre-Climb Snack
Some climbers believe in the power of a specific pre-climb meal. Whether it’s a banana, a handful of almonds, or even chocolate, the idea is that this food fuels success.
🎭 The Ritual: Eating the same snack before a climb.
⚠️ The Downside: If you run out of your lucky snack, you might doubt yourself before even starting.
Why Do Climbers Have Rituals?
Rituals and superstitions may seem irrational, but they help climbers feel in control. Climbing is unpredictable, and having a routine—whether it’s a lucky chalk bag shake or wearing the same shoes—creates a sense of mental stability and focus.
So, whether you're tapping the rock, whispering a mantra, or climbing in your lucky shirt, if it helps you send your project, who’s to say it’s not real?
What’s your climbing ritual? 😏