10 Best Climbing Fingerboards – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

If you’re a climbing enthusiast, practicing at the rock or a wall is not always feasible. And, without proper physical training and practice, it is almost impossible to improve your climbing performance.
So, how do you boost your finger strength before heading straight to the walls or crags?
The answer is climbing fingerboards, also known as hangboards.
If you’re looking for a climbing fingerboard, consider yourself lucky! You’re most likely to find a plethora of options in the market. Each climbing fingerboard varies from one another in terms of design, quality, feature, portability, and price.
However, with so much to choose from, it might be a difficult decision for you to choose the right climbing fingerboard. Therefore, we have reviewed the 10 best climbing fingerboards of 2020 to help you choose the most suitable product.
Along with a detailed review of the best climbing fingerboards, we have also included a comparison chart, buyer’s guide, and FAQs related to the products. And a little bit of trick with how to mount a handboard without drilling.
So. without further ado, let’s get into it!
What is Climbing Fingerboard?
Climbing fingerboards or hangboards are old school tools to strengthen your fingers and forearms to tackle the challenges while climbing. It is an effective training strategy for climbers who want to increase their grip strength at home instead of heading to the rock or gym.
Basically, the climbing fingerboard or hangboard is a tool made up of synthetic or wood, often used to strengthen your finger and grip. It is considered as the oldest and most effective training method to build your hands and fingers strength.
Climbing is an adventure sport that can be extremely dangerous if you do not train properly and get used to different climbing structures. These old-fashioned training tools are excellent for maintaining your fingers, forearms, and shoulder strength to keep your clutch and balance when climbing over a steep rock face.
Fingerboard training is ideal for avid climbers who can not train at the gym every single day. These tools include small crimps, which can be used to practice gripping techniques and build finger strength. They are generally designed to be mounted above the doors or in the hallways.
Are Climbing Fingerboards for Beginners?
Although climbing fingerboards are a time-effective training tool, they are not recommended for beginners. In fact, climbing fingerboards can severely injure your fingers or hands if you’re not familiar with advanced climbing techniques.
It may be hard to believe, but even professional climbers can strain their muscles if the fingerboard technique is not right.
Therefore, if you’re a beginner, only starting in this sport, it is best to stick to the walls and rocks to improve your grip. And as an amateur, the idea of hanging by the strength of your finger is too risky. As much as it is essential to master specific techniques to use fingerboards, your muscle development is also equally critical.
Fingerboard training will target several portions of your upper body, like fingers, forearms, and shoulders. Significantly, you have proper developments in these portions to withstand the strenuous workout.
However, if you’re not willing to dedicate your time to hit the gym or climb the rock, you can also find beginners’ climbing fingerboards in the market. Regardless of the options, it is certainly not the right idea to climb the fingerboards.
The best way to improve gripping techniques and strength is by climbing the regular walls and rocks. This way, you’ll also be exposed to different variations of crimps and edges to improve your skills much faster.
Trango Rock Prodigy

There are plenty of different climbing fingerboards available on the market. Out of all the products, we have reviewed 10 of the best climbing fingerboards in terms of performance, versatility, functionality, and price range.
However, if we have to choose the most premium fingerboards among the products we have reviewed, we’ll have to go with the Trango Rock Prodigy.
This product is, by far, the most premium overall fingerboard. With varieties of holds and edges, this model is ideal for training multiple gripping techniques and strength build-ups. It combines excellent progression to track your progress and improve your skills.
The two-part design also adds extra flexibility to balance the fingerboards in the most suitable position that matches your body shape. With flexibility, versatility, and functionality, this climbing fingerboard is a perfect training tool for every level of climbers.
Quick Summary of Best Climbing Fingerboards of 2020
Image | Climbing Fingerboards | |
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![]() | Top Pick for Overall Performance TRANGO Rock Prodigy TRANGO Rock Prodigy is the most premium climbing fingerboard on the list. This versatile equipment integrates a diverse range of holds, edges, and pockets. It is an excellent choice for those looking to learn new climbing techniques and strengthening their fingers, forearms, and shoulders. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Most Sought-After Climbing Fingerboard Metolius Simulator 3D Metolius Simulator 3D is one of the most reputed climbing fingerboards out there. When it comes to performance and ergonomics, this model lives up to its reputation. It includes a variety of edges and pockets to improve your grip progression and techniques. Whether you’re looking for a fingerboard for general warm-ups or dedicated training sessions, Metolius Simulator 3D is the top pick! | View on Amazon |
![]() | Fingerboard for Warm-Ups and Intensity Build-Ups Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board is the perfect fingerboard for warm-ups and intensity build-ups. It comes at a fairly reasonable price and provides high gripping and flexibility. The variety of holds of this product primarily aim for finger strength, core strength, and upper body toning. In addition to that, it comes with a smooth texture and sleek design. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Affordable Climbing Fingerboard Metolius Rock Rings 3D Metolius Rock Rings 3D is not only the most versatile fingerboard but is also highly portable. This hybrid model combines a gymnastic ring, a pull-up bar, and a hangboard in a single product. This climbing-specific model comes with two individual rocks with one jug, one 4-finger edge, and one 3-finger pocket. With such versatility, it is an excellent accessory to train multiple finger training. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Top Pick for Ergonomic Design Trango Rock Prodigy Forge Trango Rock Prodigy Forge features a two-part design that offers extra versatility and flexibility. It integrates a closed-crimp grip which has a thumb and index finger protection. It combines improved edges and pockets for extensive training and smooth texture for a solid grip. However, this product is designed for more advanced and experienced climbers. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Top Pick for Space-Saving Design So iLL Beastmaker 1000 Beastmaker 1000 is one of the best all-round fingerboards. Although smaller in size, this model offers an extensive diversity of pockets and edges. With a compact design, this climbing fingerboard can be mounted even in the tightest of spaces. Made out of wooden material, the texture of Beastmaker 1000 is smooth and skin-friendly. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Best Value for Money Metolius Project The Metolius Project is a budget-friendly climbing fingerboard with high-end performance and flexibility. It also features a space-friendly design making it an excellent choice for people with small homes or apartments. However, its most significant drawback to this model is the lack of pockets and edges. Although it is more than enough for beginners and intermediate climbers, this product may lack options for advanced climbers. Constructed with polyester resin, the Metolius Project has a decent texture. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Fingerboards for High-End Climbers So iLL Beastmaker 2000 When it comes to performance and versatility, the Beastmaker 2000 is an absolute beast. The holds and grips are quite technical and challenging, especially suitable for advanced climbers. It comes with a large number of pockets with different angles and depths. It is one of the best choices for climbers who are willing to take their climbing skills to the next level. Additionally, it comes with a compact and space-saving design, which makes it convenient to mount, even in tightest spaces. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Top Pick for Versatility and Functionality So iLL Iron Palm Hangboard So iLL Iron Palm Hangboard has the most simplistic design for a fingerboard. However, even with such a design, this climbing fingerboard offers exceptional versatility. Instead of pockets and edges, this model has moreover focused on slopers and pinches. With unique construction, no other product on the list comes closer to match the functionality of this product. The progressive holds of this model comes handy to take your climbing skills to the next level. | View on Amazon |
![]() | Climbing Fingerboard with Aesthetic and Classy Looks Metolius Wood Grips Compact II With aesthetic looks, robust texture, and a diverse selection of holds, Metolius Wood Grips Compact II earns its place in the list of 10 best climbing fingerboards. The wooden surface is smooth, which helps to reduce the stress on the fingertips. It integrates a decent amount of edges and pockets, which facilitates varieties of workouts and an excellent progression. Additionally, it is much smaller in size, which makes the mounting process much more comfortable. | View on Amazon |
Best Climbing Fingerboards of 2020 - Reviewed
TRANGO Rock Prodigy
Features Highlights
- The computer-engineered design offers perfectly symmetrical and systematic fingerboard training
- It is made of fine-grained polyurethane resin
- It consists of five pairs of pockets that can be used to practice multiple techniques
- The two-part design helps to fine-tune the ideal position that matches your body
- It is excellent for climbers of all abilities
Specification
- Dimension:
10 x 9 x 12 inches
- Weight:
9.6 pounds
- Material:
Polyurethane
- Best Use:
Climbing
Trango Rock Prodigy is hands down one of the best over-all climbing fingerboards out in the market. It offers a wide variety of crimps and pockets to train different finger techniques and strength build-ups.
Each pocket and edge are made for different skill levels, which progressively gets shallower and challenging. This progressive collection of pockets also helps to track your improvements and advance to more challenging training accordingly.
The multiple sets of edges used in Trango Rock Prodigy steadily narrow down as you progress from right to left. Likewise, this model combines five pairs of pockets that serve different purposes for practicing different techniques.
Trango Rock Prodigy has a two-part design. This design offers you the flexibility to mount the two halves in the most suitable distance according to the size and shape of your body. This flexibility in design provides excellent alignment, improves body form, and significantly reduces the stress on your hands, elbows, and shoulders.
When it comes to versatility, there are not many fingerboards that come closer to Trango Rock Prodigy. Its multiple collections of pockets and edges make this product ideal for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re only getting started into fingerboards or you’re already working on intensive training, no other model works as conveniently as the Trango Rock Prodigy.
However, the most apparent downside to this climbing fingerboard is its burdensome mounting process. Not only does this model demand an extensive amount of effort while mounting, but it also requires ample space on the wall.
Pros
- Extensive collection of edges and pockets
- Ideal for a wide range of climbers
- The progressive design is ideal for learning new techniques
- The two-part design offers excellent form and ergonomics
- The multiple edges improve the gripping strength
Cons
- It requires a larger space to mount
- It takes too much effort to mount
- It is not made for beginner climbers
Verdict
Trango Rock Prodigy is one of the best all-around climbing fingerboards you can come across in the market. Unlike other products that focus on a single user, this model serves different levels of climbers with its variation on grips. It is the best product that we’ve reviewed that allows you to track your progress and increase the intensity of training accordingly.
Metolius Simulator 3D
Features Highlights
- The holds are systematically arranged with a broad arc to facilitate convenient shape
- The ergonomic shape of the hold prevents injuries
- Provide excellent clearance for your fingers, forearms, and elbows
- It has a fine texture to facilitate excellent grip
- It comes with a training guide and instruction for the mounting process
- It comes in multiple colors
Specification
- Dimension:
29 x 11 x 6 inches
- Weight:
10.44 pounds
- Material:
Polyester Resin
- Best Use:
Climbing
Metolius Simulator 3D is hands down the most sought-after climbing fingerboard in the market — and for all the right reasons. This model has gone through several alterations and updates over the years. With each update, this product has significantly improved its overall performance and ergonomics.
It includes a wide combination of edges and pockets to facilitate better grip progression and learning new techniques. The ergonomic design of the Metolius Simulator 3D not only provides comfort but also allows you to perform several workouts.
It consists of an overhanging design which reduces the stress in your elbows, forearms, and shoulders. It integrates four different sets of edges, which comes handy for practicing finger techniques.
The edges have a downward curved design, which offers better support to the fingers and reduces stress. The variation edges are appropriate for multiple purposes, from general warm-ups to dedicated training sessions.
Although Metolius Simulator 3D is not the most compact fingerboard model, it combines a proper balance of edges and pockets to facilitate climbers with different skills. With this model, it is easy to measure your progression and push yourself to a more challenging grade.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Excellent progression of edges and pockets
- Ergonomic design to reduce elbow and shoulder stress
- Ideal for a wide range of climbers
- Solid holds to prevent injuries
- It comes with a proper training guide
Cons
- Not the best model for high-end climbers
- It is not quite compact
Verdict
Metolius Simulator 3D might not be the most advanced fingerboard out there, but it certainly delivers above-average performance. It includes an incredible selection of pockets and edges which can be used for multiple training sessions. Although this is not the ideal product for professionals, it certainly suits a wide range of climbers.
Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board
Features Highlights
- It comes with multiple holds targeting finger strength, core strength, and upper body toning
- It includes 14 different pockets and edges for practicing different techniques
- The installation process is simple and straightforward
- Ergonomic design to reduce injuries
- Excellent for grip strength and grip techniques
- Great accessory to increase your stamina and strength
- It comes at a fairly reasonable price
Specification
- Dimension:
21.9 x 10.3 x 6.1 inches
- Weight:
4.43 pounds
- Material:
N/A
- Best Use:
Climbing
If you’re looking for a decent climbing fingerboard at a reasonable price, Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board is your best bet. Made out of the highly durable texture, this model provides excellent gripping and flexibility.
This fingerboard comes with multiple holds that mainly target finger strength, core strength, and upper body toning. It also offers a better clearance at forearm areas for comfort.
Not only that, the Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board includes 14 different pockets of different widths and depths. This diverse variation in the pockets allows you to practice different training and also measure your performance.
The design is pretty sleek and ergonomic. The pull-up bar holds of this model are arranged systematically to taper downward and outward to reduce the possibilities of injuries. However, we recommend you to use chalk for better grip.
Along with the finger technique training, this fingerboard also comes handy for regular exercises. This product allows you to engage in eight different exercises to keep you fit and active.
Unlike most climbing fingerboards, the Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board is simple and straightforward to install. The package comes with a detailed installation manual for your convenience.
Pros
- Multiple holds to target different section of the body
- It comes with 14 different edges and pockets
- Easy and straightforward mounting
- Increases stamina and strength
- Inexpensive model
- Decent for grip strength and techniques
- One year warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
Verdict
Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board features an improved texture and hold that almost replicates the rock-like surface. Although this model is not the most premium fingerboard in the market, it certainly gets the job done. The 14 different pockets and edges allow you to practice a wide range of grip techniques and help you improve your climbing skills.
Metolius Rock Rings 3D
Features Highlights
- It features a two-part design
- It is made of sturdy polyester resin
- The single-point suspension design allows easy rotation to prevent injury
- The rings highly portable and can be fixed anywhere you want
- Each ring consists of a large jug on top, a four-finger-width pocket, a four-finger-flat edge, and a three-finger pocket at the bottom
- It comes with step-by-step mounting instruction
- It also features detailed training guides
Specification
- Dimension:
6.4 x 4.9 x 1.6 inches
- Weight:
4.8 pounds
- Material:
Polyester Resin
- Best Use:
Climbing
Metolius Rock Rings 3D is one of the most versatile and convenient fingerboard models in the market. This portable product is a hybrid of a gymnastic ring, a pull-up bar, and a hangboard.
There is no doubt that the Rock Rings 3D is one of the most effective climbing-specific training accessories. It comes with two individual rock units that feature a large jug on the top, a four-finger edge, and a three-finger pocket.
With such variations, this model allows you to practice an extensive range of finger techniques. In addition to that, the single point suspension of the Rock Rings 3D provides the flexibility in movement and rotation.
The Rock Rings 3D are CNC milled, which provides excellent symmetry. Also, the textures of this model are fine-grained that provide proper friction and grip. It is also portable and can be mounted virtually anywhere you want — be it a tree, beam, or pull-up bars.
Pros
- It comes with two individual rock units
- Made of sturdy and durable polyester resin
- The single-point suspension design allows maximum flexibility and rotation
- It is portable and easy to fix
- Comes with multiple pockets and edges
- It comes with mounting instruction and training guides
Cons
- Slightly bulky and heavy to travel around with
- The surface becomes tough when used heavily
Verdict
Metolius Rock Rings 3D is undoubtedly the most versatile, portable, and convenient climbing fingerboard you can get your hands on. It is excellent for multi-functional climbing training and exercises.
However, it is not the most technical hangboard in the market. If you’re looking for a technical and advanced climbing fingerboard, it is better to consider some other products. Nonetheless, this product offers the best value for money, considering its price and its functionality.
Trango Rock Prodigy Forge
Features Highlights
- It features a versatile 2-piece unit
- It includes a closed-crimp grip
- Innovative edge profile and drafted pockets
- It is ideal for building maximum finger and forearm strength
- It comes with a 1-year warranty
Specification
- Dimension:
13 x 11 x 16 inches
- Weight:
10.5 pounds
- Material:
Polyurethane
- Best Use:
Climbing
Rock Prodigy Forge is a newer model by Trango designed to improvise the Rock Prodigy Training Center. With this new model, the manufacturers intend to fill the void that was missing in the RO Training Center.
This fingerboard also features a two-part design allowing you the flexibility to mount the units in the most suitable position according to the shape of your body. It features a closed-crimp grip with thumb and index finger protection.
The two-piece design also allows you to customize the mount distance for different climbing training. This small accessory is excellent for improving finger, forearm, and hand strength.
While the Rock Prodigy Training Center was designed for every-level climbers, the Forge model is specially designed for advanced and professional climbers. The smooth texture of this fingerboard is rigorously designed to provide a solid grip.
The Rock Prodigy Forge also has improved edges and drafted pockets that are placed at a slight angle to ensure joint safety.
Pros
- Two-part design
- Features a closed-crimp grip with thumb and index finger protection
- Customizable mount distance
- Ideal for practicing several techniques
- Excellent for improving finger, forearm, and hand strength
- Rigorously designed for experienced climbers
- Comes with a year-long warranty
Cons
- Not an ideal fingerboard for beginners
Verdict
Trango Rock Prodigy Forge is designed for professional climbers with additional features that add a new dimension of difficulty and challenges. This fingerboard comes with a dedicated closed-crimp grip with extra index and thumb support. It also has innovative edges, drafted pockets, a smoother texture, and steeper slopes.
Although it serves a deeper purpose for experienced climbers, beginners can also make the most of this product. As it serves in practicing several techniques, it is indeed a versatile and useful product.
So iLL Beastmaker 1000
Features Highlights
- It features a compact and space-saving design
- It has a wide variety of pockets and edges
- It has a high-quality texture
- Great for practicing multiple climbing techniques
- Ideal for mid-range climbers
- Helps to improve finger techniques and build grip strength
Specification
- Dimension:
22.8 x 5 x 2.2 inches
- Weight:
3.31 pounds
- Material:
Wood
- Best Use:
Climbing
Beastmaker 1000 is certainly a top contender for the best all-round climbing fingerboards in the market. Even with the small dimension, this model offers a great variety of pockets and edges. The variety of grip allows you to practice multiple techniques and build your finger strength.
The compact and space-saving design of this fingerboard allows you to mount this product even in the tightest spaces. When it comes to texture, not many wooden fingerboards come close to that of the Beastmaker 1000. With such smooth texture, this fingerboard ensures less harm on your skin, fingertips, and hand.
Its above-average number of pockets and edges, although limited, offers the perfect combination for climbers to experiment with different techniques. It comes with a standalone edge in the center and three sets of four-finger edges on the side.
Such diversity makes the Beastmaker 1000 the most favorable choice for mid-range climbers ranging from 5.10 to 5.13 difficulty levels. While the selection of the holds in this product would make any climber fawn over, the holds are slightly closer, reducing flexibility.
However, the trade-off is still reasonable considering its performance and space-saving design. With a compact size, sleek design, high performance, and excellent progression, this model is undoubtedly the most versatile climbing fingerboard in the market today.
Pros
- It features a compact and space-saving design
- Excellent progression of pockets and edges
- It includes a top-notch texture
- It is styling and good-looking
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Crowded holds
Verdict
It’s no surprise that the Beastmaker 1000 is one of the top contenders for all-around climbing fingerboards. This impressively compact model comes with a wide range of grips with the excellent progression of holds.
The selection of pockets and edges are also exceptional. However, this is designed for mid-range climbers to take their climbing skills to the next level. If you’re a professional climber, it is better to consider other premium products instead of the Beastmaker 1000. Additionally, the price of the product is relatively higher for this model.
Metolius Project
Features Highlights
- It comes at a fairly reasonable price
- The holds are symmetrically arranged to prevent injuries
- It provides proper clearance for elbows and forearms
- It includes an above-average texture that provides a solid grip
- It comes with complete mounting instruction and training guides
- The product comes in multiple color choices
- Ideal for low-level and mid-level climbers
Specification
- Dimension:
26 x 9 x 7 inches
- Weight:
10.43 pounds
- Material:
Polyester Resin
- Best Use:
Climbing
The Metolius Project is one of the least expensive climbing fingerboards out there. Even though the price tag is considerably less, the manufacturers have not compromised on its quality and performance. Although it is not the best fingerboard on the market, the low expenses make it an excellent option for climbers who are not willing to break the bank.
The Metolius Project has the most compact design for a fingerboard. It does not require a lot of space to mount the fingerboard. However, it has a lack of variations when it comes to edges of pockets. It has a limited collection of pockets and edges, which is ideal for entry-level to mid-level climbers.
It includes two primary edges, both located in the dead center. The location of two edges is truly a let down; it restricts your hands close together. The restriction adds an extra strain on your elbows and shoulders and makes it slightly uncomfortable to use. Along with two edges, it includes four additional pockets. It has two 2-finger pockets and two 3-finger pockets with a proper depth for warm-ups.
When it comes to texture, the Metolius Project offers above-average performance. This model is made with old polyester resin and finished with a fine-grained texture. The texture of the Metolius Project is slightly skin-friendly compared to similar models.
The Metolius Projects is the most straightforward fingerboard model to mount on the wall. All you have to do is drill the eight screws, and you’re good to go. The smaller size also comes handy if you mount it in a small space.
Pros
- Less costly
- Compact and space-saving design
- Good textures and solid grip
- Ideal for low-level to mid-level climbers
- Easy to mount
- Comes with a detailed training guide
- Multiple color options
Cons
- The edges are located in the dead center making it slightly uncomfortable to use
- Does not offer a wide selection of holds
Verdict
Although the Metolius Project is not the most premium climbing fingerboards on the market, it offers a good value for money. It is a great choice for low-level and mid-level climbers to take their skills to the next level. It has a space-saving design, making it ideal, particularly for those who do not have much space to mount the fingerboards. Even though the edges and pockets of this fingerboard are limited, it does a fairly decent job considering its price tag.
So iLL Beastmaker 2000
Features Highlights
- It features a compact and space-saving design
- It includes extremely challenging holds to take your climbing skills to the next level
- Best for practicing one or two-finger techniques
- Made out of robust wood material with an extra smooth texture
- It is simple and straightforward to mount
- Top choice for high-end climbers who are used to climbing advanced routes
Specification
- Dimension:
24 x 2.4 x 6.3 inches
- Weight:
3.53 pounds
- Material:
Wood
- Best Use:
Climbing
Just as its name implies, the Beastmaker 2000 is an absolute beast of a fingerboard, designed for well-experienced climbers. It comes with tremendously intense holds and has some of the most challenging grips for a fingerboard.
However, this model is not made for beginners or intermediate climbers. If you’re already nailing advanced routes like 5.13, this fingerboard might be the right option for you.
It comes with two sets of 4-finger edges, which serve as the warm-up hold for the Beastmaker 2000. These 4-finger edges, located in the center of the board, are more-or-less designed for one-armed lock-offs.
However, it comes with a large number of pockets with multiple depths and angles. Although there are two different three-finger pockets in the Beastmaker 2000, this board is not built to use it as a pair. They are not lined most symmetrically and are designed to be used individually.
The three pairs of slopers are ridiculously brutal. Even the mid-level sloper is inclined at 33-degree, which most climbers will find difficult to nail. The most-challenging sloper is 42-degree steep, which is almost impossible to climb even for experienced climbers.
The Beastmaker 2000 is simply the best when it comes to texture. This climbing board is made up of sturdy wood material and has an extremely smooth finishing.
Even with the complicated holds and grips, the Beastmaker 2000 is one of the most compact fingerboards. And, as a result, this climbing fingerboard is extremely easy to mount. With such a small size, this board fits above almost any doorways.
Pros
- Space-saving dimensions
- Excellent for well-experienced climbers
- Extremely challenging holds
- Ideal for one or two-finger techniques
- Smooth and fine texture
- Easy to mount
Cons
- Not a good choice for low-level or mid-level climbers
- Relatively expensive
Verdict
The Beastmaker 2000 is certainly the most challenging climbing fingerboard. With challenging holds and nearly-impossible slopers, this model is designed only for the most advanced climbers. Honestly, if you are an advanced climber, you will not find better climbing fingerboards to improve your skills and techniques than this. It also has a compact, space-saving design that can virtually fit above any doorways. However, this fingerboard model will cost you a fortune.
So iLL Iron Palm Hangboard
Features Highlights
- It features an ergonomic and functional design
- It has four edges and ball-shaped slopers
- It is excellent for improving skills and building strength
- With fairly simplistic looks this fingerboard is extremely versatile
- Ideal for a wide range of climbers
- It comes at a fairly reasonable price
Specification
- Dimension:
27 x 4 x 11.4 inches
- Weight:
7.6 pounds
- Material:
Urethane
- Best Use:
Climbing
While the pockets and edges are the foundations of any climbing fingerboard, the Iron Palm begs to differ. Instead, this model has largely focused on exceptional slopers and pinches.
The unique feature of this fingerboard is the two huge balls located at the top corners. These rounded balls are slightly flat on top and sloping to the sides. This unique structure allows the proper grip for the workout while improving your grip strength.
When it comes to pinches, no other climbing fingerboard can match this product. The two sets of pinches in the Iron Palm can either be used independently or combined to create a third pitch. These combinations are excellent for fine-tuning your climbing skills as well as building strength.
At first glance, this model might seem simplistic, but the four edges along with the slopers and pinches, this fingerboard is extremely versatile. The four edges are uniquely-shaped, with each offering a different shape and angle. The edges also offer an excellent progression considering other similar products.
However, the size of the Iron Palm is considerably large, which means you will require ample space to mount this product. Mounting this product is much easier and quicker. The only challenge with mounting is finding a large space.
Pros
- It offers good ergonomics
- It features the best sloper and pinches
- Classy and simplistic looks
- Fairly reasonable price
- Serves a diverse range of climbers
Cons
- Requires a lot of space for mounting
- It has limited edges and no pockets
Verdict
With the advanced sloper and pinch holds, So iLL Iron Palm Hangboard is one of the most versatile fingerboards in the market. However, this product is designed for advanced climbers only. The holds and grips of this fingerboard are too challenging for beginners or intermediate climbers.
Therefore, if you’re just starting to climb,you should consider other models. However, if you are an experienced climber willing to test your endurance, you will not find climbing fingerboard better than the Iron Palm.
Metolius Wood Grips Compact II
Features Highlights
- It combines a decent assortment of holds for finger strength and techniques
- It features a smooth and skin-friendly texture
- It has a compact and space-saving design
- The product looks classy and aesthetic
- It is relatively inexpensive and budget-friendly
- It offers an excellent progression of training
Specification
- Dimension:
25 x 7 x 4 inches
- Weight:
4.7 pounds
- Material:
Alder Wood
- Best Use:
Climbing
The Metolius Wood Grip Compact II combines an aesthetic look, solid texture, and a great selection of holds. Made out of alder wood, the texture of the product is skin-friendly and offers an excellent grip.
Although smaller in size, the Compact II has a decent combination of edges and pockets. It features two stand-alone 4-finger edges and a couple of pairs of 4-finger edges in the center. Likewise, it combines two sets of 3-finger pocket and 2-finger pockets, respectively. The pockets are well-rounded on the edges to provide extra protection to your fingers.
It also combines a couple of sets of slopers with an excellent balance of subtle and challenging arches. Made of alder wood, the Compact II features a solid texture. The holds are comfortable and skin-friendly. However, the wooden construction might be a disadvantage for chalk users. As the excessive use of chalk can make the fingerboards gummy and greasy.
This fingerboard includes a compact and space-saving design. Therefore, it is much easier to mount. It can be installed in almost any doorways or even squeezed in the basements.
When it comes to price, Compact II is not the most expensive model in the market, nor the cheapest. The price of this product lies somewhere in the middle-ground! Therefore, this mode is ideal for those who do not have large spaces and are tight on budget. At this price range, this fingerboard offers a significant amount of holds and facilitates excellent progression.
Pros
- Large assortment of holds
- Skin-friendly textures
- Compact and space-saving design
- Classy and aesthetic looks
- Reasonable price tag
- Facilitates excellent progression
Cons
- It combines relatively fewer pockets and edges.
- Not the most premium wood texture
- Not ideal for chalk users
Verdict
While the Metolius Wood Grips Compact II is not the most versatile climbing fingerboard, it does offer a decent value for money. Honestly, it costs half the price of other wooden fingerboards available on the market. It offers an above-average set of holds to train your finger techniques and progression. The texture is also fairly decent, considering its price. The best thing about the Compact II is its compact size that can fit above any doorways.
Comparison Table of Best Climbing Fingerboards
SN | Climbing Fingerboards | Dimensions (Inches) | Weight (Pounds) | Material | Best Use |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | TRANGO Rock Prodigy | 10 x 9 x 12 | 9.6 | Polyurethane | Climbing |
2 | Metolius Simulator 3D | 29 x 11 x 6 | 10.44 | Polyester Resin | Climbing |
3 | Get Out! Rock Climbing Hanging Board | 21.9 x 10.3 x 6.1 | 4.43 | N/A | Climbing |
4 | Metolius Rock Rings 3D | 6.4 x 4.9 x 1.6 | 4.8 | Polyester Resin | Climbing |
5 | Trango Rock Prodigy Forge | 13 x 11 x 16 | 10.5 | Polyurethane | Climbing |
6 | So iLL Beastmaker 1000 | 22.8 x 5 x 2.2 | 3.31 | Wood | Climbing |
7 | Metolius Project | 26 x 9 x 7 | 10.43 | Polyester Resin | Climbing |
8 | So iLL Beastmaker 2000 | 24 x 2.4 x 6.3 | 3.53 | Wood | Climbing |
9 | So iLL Iron Palm Hangboard | 27 x 4 x 11.4 | 7.6 | Urethane | Climbing |
10 | Metolius Wood Grips Compact II | 25 x 7 x 4 | 4.7 | Alder Wood | Climbing |
How to Choose the Right Climbing Fingerboard
With tons of different brands manufacturing a diverse range of climbing fingerboards, it might be bewildering to choose the right model for you.
What should you consider in a climbing fingerboard?
While it might be tough to answer that simply, here are a few features you might want to consider while shopping for the climbing fingerboards.
Purpose
Before heading straight to the market, you must evaluate your climbing ability and consider your training goals. Climbing fingerboards come in a different range of difficulty. The products designed for professionals can have extensively different edges, pockets, depth, texture, and materials to that of beginner fingerboards.
In addition to that, there are several workouts and training that you can improvise for your finger strength. Therefore, it is essential to consider how you want to train with the fingerboard. Before buying the product, decide on whether you want to use the product for pure finger strength or multiple grip positions. Also, assess your climbing ability and go for the fingerboard that matches your ability.
Material
In general, the climbing fingerboards are made from either polyurethane, polyester resin, or wood. It is difficult to say which material is the best for climbing as different material serves different purposes depending upon the climbers and their needs.
Polyurethane and polyester resin fingerboards are almost identical to one another. Although polyurethane is considered slightly better, there is not much difference. Both of these materials provide a variety of textures, pockets, edges, and holds. Additionally, they are much cheaper compared to wooden boards.
On the other hand, wood fingerboards are more skin-friendly, but the smooth texture makes it slightly difficult to hold. If you use excessive chalk, the pores of the wood tend to be covered with chalk. In the long run, this might create a sticky and slick feeling on the wooden holds. Overall, wooden fingerboards are much more expensive compared to boards made up of polyurethane and polyester resin materials.
Edges
When it comes to climbing fingerboards, edges are the game-changer. The edges on a fingerboard are by far the most significant factor to determine whether the fingerboard you’re buying is worth the investment.
In the real world, edges are where climbs are done. Therefore, you must train different types of edging techniques and build the muscles to tackle most of the edges.
While buying a climbing fingerboard, you should go for a product that offers at least three edge depths. Also, it is handy to have the edge depths ranging from comfortable 1 inch to nail-scraping ¼ inches.
Pockets
Another significant factor you need to consider while buying a climbing fingerboard is the pockets. While you are less likely to encounter pockets in the real world, it is mandatory to train in them.
The pockets of the climbing fingerboards allow you to train in 2, 3, or 4 fingers, respectively. It also helps you to build strength in those fingers. It is better to have multiple progression of pockets in the climbing fingerboard. It allows you to train in a counterintuitive way, which means you start the training with more fingers and gradually reduce the fingers as you progress.
Slopers
Generally, slopers are used to shape the overall strength of the hands and for warm-ups. They are usually in large rounded-shape with a slight slope on the side. It is always handy to invest in a climbing fingerboard that includes a pair of slopes.
Jugs
Jugs are handlebar-like shapes in the fingerboard that are mostly used for warm-ups. They are of great use, especially for those who want to do a series of pull-ups before starting the actual training. Although not every fingerboard includes this feature, it is always good to have additional features for extra workouts.
Pinches
Pinches are not mandatory for a climbing fingerboard, but it certainly is more of a luxury. While the real rocks mostly do not have pinch-type features, it is always better to train on this kind of surface. If you’re an indoor climber, you’re most likely to encounter these types of routes now and then. So, it is always better to have at least a set of pinches in your climbing fingerboard.
Mounting
It’s no doubt, one of the biggest challenges while owning a fingerboard is its mounting process. Even the most premium climbing boards are difficult to mount at times. Also, for those who keep moving from one house to another, it is important to consider this factor. If you’re someone who moves from one place to another, there is no point in buying a fingerboard that is complicated to mount.
Investing in a product that has a straightforward mount process and comes with a step-by-step instruction is more likely to make your life easier.
Size and Customizability
While most people neglect this factor, it is worth considering the size of the climbing fingerboard before buying the product. The climbing fingerboards come in different sizes and shapes. If your house or apartment has plenty of space, you might not have a problem investing in larger models. However, if you have a tiny space, we advise you to go for smaller models.
Also, if you’re on the road most of the time, you can get compact and portable fingerboards to meet your needs. Along with the size of the product, it is also worth considering the customizability.
Nowadays, most manufacturers produce climbing fingerboards that are customizable for different training. Customizable boards can help you train in the different progression of difficulties.
FAQs About Climbing Fingerboards
There are no hard and fast rules for when to start training with climbing fingerboards. However, this climbing equipment is not made for beginner climbers who are only beginning these sports.
We think the ideal time to start training with the fingerboards is after nailing 5.12a/7a+ for sports routes and at least V4 for bouldering. While it is not wrong to start training with this equipment before attempting these grades, it is best to consider it for the head start.
Well, you can do a wide range of training with climbing fingerboards. There are different training sessions for different kinds of climbers. So, it depends on what type or level of climber you are.
If you’re a beginner, you may not be able to support the entire weight of your body. So, do not push yourself too hard or overdo the exercise as it can strain your muscle and joint. It is ideal to use pulley systems to balance your weight and improve your finger strength.
In contrast, adding extra weight helps to improve the intensity of workout for experienced climbers. The best way to warm-up for experienced climbers is by holding the grip until burnout. You can try holding them for a predetermined number of seconds to make it more effective.
You also limit the grip time to ten seconds for six reps. However, reduce the rest time between each progressive reps to increase the intensity. If you are targeting to strengthen your core, you can also add leg lifts.
The holding technique for the climbing fingerboards differs from one board to another. Keep in mind, if you own a thinner board, you’ll have to deal with smaller and more difficult holds.
The best practice, whatsoever, is to have an idea of the hold you want to practice and buy the fingerboard accordingly. Having the right fingerboard with the holds that suits your training style the most is crucial.
Once you have the right model, you can grip the fingerboard and allow your body to dangle. Make sure to have enough bend at the elbows to prevent injuries.
There are tons of different methods to mount your climbing fingerboards. It is best to use wood or bars while mounting the fingerboard over your doorway to add extra clearance. It is not the best practice to install the climbing fingerboards directly to the walls.
It is essential to have enough clearance to be able to hand properly. If you do not maintain proper clearance, it might be difficult and uncomfortable to hand on the fingerboard.
If you already have an existing pull-up bar, it is best to mount your fingerboards to them to avoid the marks on the wall.
Learning new techniques and increasing your difficulty is all about creativity. There are hundreds of different workouts on the internet for you to master climbing techniques and increase your level. Your best bet is to go through them, and try out different lessons to challenge yourself. One important thing you need to focus on is your footwork. Having an extra focus on footwork helps to balance the pressure on your body.
Conclusion
Well, there you go! That’s all regarding the 10 best climbing fingerboards of 2020. All these products are rigorously designed to deliver the best performance. Therefore, regardless of which model you choose to buy, it will undoubtedly be worth the investment.
