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Best Climbing Chalk of 2023
This post was last updated on December 06, 2023.
Take your climbing game up a notch with our top pick for the best climbing chalk. When it comes to grip, performance and quality, we'll be monkey's uncle if there's anything that can beat Friction Labs Gorilla Grip. This chalk's got it all, bringing the jungle to the crag with its fine texture, no-nonsense packaging, unbeatable purity, and excellent value for your hard-earned dollar.
But hey, one slip does not make a bad climber, nor does one chalk make the entire market. So we've grabbed a couple of other ropes too for you to check out, namely our two runner-ups. And because we know your needs can be as variable as a mountain weather, we've also picked climbers' favorites in other categories: the best budget chalk, top liquid chalk, and the go-to chalk ball. Yes, we've got you all covered.
Before we start sorting our chalks and hanging our carabiners, you might also like to take a look at our hide notched onto Best Climbing Harnesses, Best Climbing Helmets, and Best Climbing Rope Bags. We bet they'd make a fine addition to your cliff-side kit.
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick
Black Diamond White Gold
Packaging
Texture & Grip
Value
| Packaging |
9
|
| Texture & Grip |
8
|
| Value |
9
|
The Black Diamond White Gold is our top pick because it has a great texture and grippy feel that testers appreciate. The stand-out feature of Black Diamond White Gold is the value though. You get a lot of great quality chalk for a great price.
Runner Up #1
Midnight Lightning Ultra Premium
Packaging
Texture & Grip
Value
| Packaging |
7
|
| Texture & Grip |
8
|
| Value |
9
|
Midnight Lightning Ultra Premium has a very silky texture that we like. It's also sourced from sea-water, not the ground, so if you're looking for something a little more eco-friendly, this is a great option. The value is excellent, in line with top pick. It only loses points for the zip-lock style closure, which can be hard to get re-sealed.
Runner Up #2
Friction Labs Gorilla Grip
Packaging
Texture & Grip
Value
| Packaging |
7
|
| Texture & Grip |
10
|
| Value |
6
|
Friction Labs puts a lot of work in to being the best chalk on the market, and it shows. The texture and grip consistently fantastic. The price is very steep, however, and we don't feel the value is there. We're also not a fan of the new packaging.
What you should look for
(and what we test for)
Value
Chalk is not something you buy once, you buy it over and over again. Look for chalk that you feel you're getting good value for.
Texture
The texture of the chalk should be a deciding factor - fine chalk adheres to your hand better, giving you a steady and reliable hold.
Packaging
Check out the packaging: a chalk that comes in a resealable bag or sturdy container is definitely a plus. There's nothing worse than a chalk explosion inside your bag.
Ingredients
Consider the ingredients - some climbing chalks have drying agents added for extra sweat protection, but if you have sensitive skin, you might want to stick with pure magnesium carbonate.
Black Diamond White Gold
$2.95The Best Climbing Chalk
Based on our research and testing, we think the Black Diamond White Gold is the best Climbing Chalk on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.
| Packaging |
9
|
| Texture & Grip |
8
|
| Value |
9
|
Reasons to Buy
- Great texture
- Great value
Reasons to Avoid
- Package can be hard to re-close right after opening
The Important Specs
- Volume: 100g, 200g, 300g
- Chalk Type: Loose
- Ingredients: MgCO3 (Magnesium Carbonate)
Black Diamond White Gold comes very close to matching the Friction Labs Gorilla Grip in terms of quality, but falls a little short. In a blind test, the difference is subtle enough to make it a challenging call, which speaks volumes about its quality. Its texture strikes a fine balance – silky yet grippy, offering you just the right chalky feel.
Black Diamond White Gold only offers a single level of chunkiness. It leans slightly more towards fine chalk than chunky, presenting a middle ground that might not satisfy climbers who have a pronounced preference for either extreme. This one-level chunkiness might be a deal-breaker for some, but we don't think it's a big deal. The packaging also deserves a mention: the standard roll-top bag is a practical choice, efficiently minimizing the inevitable chalk mess. It's a classic design and it works.
The real trump card of Black Diamond White Gold is its value. It's a close contender to Friction Labs Gorilla Grip in quality, but the price difference is significant. For this reason, we think this is the best chalk on the market. Gorilla Grips is a slightly better product, but we just can't justify spending the money on it. The Black Diamond White Gold comes very close in terms of quality, but is much cheaper, making it a much better value.
Prices
Midnight Lightning Ultra Premium
Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Midnight Lightning Ultra Premium is a great choice if you're looking for a climbing chalk to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
| Packaging |
7
|
| Texture & Grip |
8
|
| Value |
9
|
Reasons to Buy
- Very nice, silky texture
- Made from sea-water, so more eco-friendly
- Great value
Reasons to Avoid
- Packaging can be difficult to re-seal
The Important Specs
- Pack Size: 275g
- Chalk Style: Super Fine or Chunky
Midnight Lightning Ultra Premium climbing chalk stands out for its unique texture and eco-friendly sourcing. This chalk is sourced from seawater, unlike conventional options mined from the ground, making it an excellent choice if you want climbing chalk that is a little more eco-friendly.
The chalk has a very silky texture. Whether this is a side-effect of the seawater or just how Midnight Lightning is making their chalk, we're a fan. It applies very well to your hand and has a nice, grippy feeling. It's everything you expect from your climbing chalk.
Midnight Lightning offers two varieties: a chunky blend and a super fine option, catering to different preferences in chalk consistency. We recommend the chunky option, but this really comes down to personal preference. We do however think that the packaging could use some improvement. The zip-lock style closure is sometimes challenging to reseal properly, mostly due to chalk getting in to the nooks and crannies of the closure system. This can lead to a bit of a chalk mess, which is never fun.
In terms of value, Midnight Lightning Ultra Premium chalk is a winner. Despite its high quality, it's priced competitively, offering great value for money. It stands on par with Black Diamond White Gold in terms of cost-effectiveness. While it doesn't quite rise to the quality of the Friction Labs Gorilla Grip, its affordability combined with its environmental benefits make it a strong contender.
Prices
No prices found. Check back later!
Friction Labs Gorilla Grip
Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Friction Labs Gorilla Grip is a great choice if you're looking for a climbing chalk to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
| Packaging |
7
|
| Texture & Grip |
10
|
| Value |
6
|
Reasons to Buy
- Great texture and coverage
- Lasts longer on your hands than most chalk brands
- Chunks are nice for tick marks
Reasons to Avoid
- The jump in quality probably doesn't match the jump in price
The Important Specs
- Additives: Free from harmful drying agents and impurities
- Ingredients: Made from 100% natural magnesium carbonate
- Package Size: Available in multiple sizes including 1oz, 2.5oz, 5oz, 7.5oz and 10oz
Friction Labs' Gorilla Grip climbing chalk stands out as a premium choice in the climbing world, and for good reason. Its exceptional texture is perhaps its most commendable feature. We think texture is one of the more important features of climbing chalk, and this chalk really excels here. Friction Labs has a commitment to offering top-tier products and it shows.
Friction Labs has three different chalks: Unicorn Dust, Gorilla Grip and Bam Bam. Gorilla Grip specifically strikes a balance between chunky and fine particles that we think hits the sweet spot. But having a range is good. If you want something different, Friction Labs has you covered.
While the quality of the chalk itself is beyond reproach, the recent changes in packaging in 2023 are a bit of a letdown. The previous design was better at containing the chalk in the package, whereas the new packaging seems to invite a chalk explosion in your backpack. This shift in packaging quality is somewhat disappointing, especially considering what you will be paying for it.
The major caveat with Friction Labs' chalk, however, is its price. It's indisputably the best chalk on the market, but it comes at a cost. For climbers who use chalk sparingly, this could be a worthy investment, offering that extra bit of reliability during critical climbs. But for those who go through chalk quickly, the high price point might be a deterrent. This is a luxury product, so if you're seeking value you might have to explore other options.
Prices
No prices found. Check back later!
Metolius Super Chalk
$4.95Best Budget Climbing Chalk
Based on our research and testing, we think the Metolius Super Chalk is a great pick if you're looking for a climbing chalk that is more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.
Reasons to Buy
- Affordable price
- Consistent texture
- Great packaging
- Good friction level
Reasons to Avoid
- Contains drying agents
- Purity may vary
- May feel too coarse for some users
The Important Specs
- Texture: Fine powder to gritty
- Packaging: Resealable bag
- Ingredients: Magnesium Carbonate, Limestone, Drying Agents
Review Roundup
Metolius Super Chalk is one of those hidden gems that balances quality and price quite nicely. We selected it as one of the best products under the budget niche, and for good reason. Despite its lower price tag, you won't be left wanting in performance.
While navigating through online reviews, we found Metolius Super Chalk received a warm welcome in the climbers community. Users praised its ability to maintain grip and enhance hand dryness as soon as you dip your hands in it. Many mentioned that it significantly reduces sweat and creates a friction-enhancing shield between your hand and the climbing surface, which is essentially what you need for a secure climb.
However, some customers highlighted that its fineness can cause it to run off in windy situations or when applied excessively. Therefore, it might be beneficial to switch to alternative products in wind-heavy areas.
Several climbers also appreciated the packaging and availability in different sizes. So whether you are an occasional climber or someone who ventures out every weekend, Metolius has got you covered.
Then there's the non-chemical factor. Customers have been relieved to find that Metolius Super Chalk is free from drying agents which can be harsh on skin, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin.
But every product has its low points, and in the case of Metolius Super Chalk, some users pointed out that it might not be the best fit for heavily sweaty hands. This isn't a universal experience, but some climbers felt that they had to reapply the product more often than they’d prefer.
Packaging
Many users have praised the chalk's packaging. Described as a resealable bag, it's reported to be sturdy, secure and efficient. You can easily manage the quantity you want to pour without unnecessary spillage. Plus, with its handy zip-lock, the product stays fresh longer, keeping the moisture at bay.
Purity & Additives
While the Metolius Super Chalk is not the purest on the market — it contains drying agents and is sourced from a blend of Magnesium Carbonate and Limestone — it is still favoured by several climbers. However, for those with sensitive skin, they might be cautious as the drying agents could potentially cause dryness or irritation.
Texture
The Metolius Super Chalk has received mixed responses online regarding its texture. Some users appreciate the fine to gritty texture, reporting that it provides excellent grip. There are, however, some users who feel that the texture is a little too coarse, making it less comfortable to use especially for long climbing sessions.
Value
Outshining others in the budget niche, the Metolius Super Chalk generally receives positive feedback on its value. Most reviewers feel that the chalk delivers a quality experience at an affordable price. It's a top pick for climbing enthusiasts who want to keep their gear costs down without sacrificing climbing performance.
Prices
Midnight Lightning Chalktopus
Best Climbing Chalk for Chalk Ball
Based on our research and testing, we think the Midnight Lightning Chalktopus is a solid choice if you want a climbing chalk that's really well suited to Chalk Ball.
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent grip provided the even application of chalk
- No extra work refilling a ball
- Creative look is entertaining and unique
Reasons to Avoid
- More dust than a typical chalk ball
- More expensive than a typical chalk ball
The Important Specs
- Volume: 56 grams
- Lifetime: Approximately 3 months with regular use
- Material: Magnesium Carbonate
- Packaging Type: Refillable chalk ball
Review Roundup
From climbing enthusiasts dedicated to bagging that next peak, to the casual gym climber, the Midnight Lightning Chalktopus has been raising eyebrows for all the right reasons. It bagged its spot as a top product in the chalk ball niche for its reliable, high-quality performance.
Designed for a smooth application, the chalkball minimizes mess and ensures your hands are amply covered for that important climb. From newbies testing their grip strength to seasoned climbers tackling intense mountain routes, it seems everyone appreciates the excellent grip it assures with its premium-grade, ultra-fine chalk.
A key thing that buyers can't stop raving about is the long-lasting effect. The Midnight Lightning Chalktopus stays on for long climbing sessions, reducing the need for constant re-chalking and allowing climbers to focus more on their ascent. This alone makes it a hit with many climbers as it saves both time and chalk in the long run.
Another crowd-pleaser is the unique ‘chalktopus’ design. Fun and distinctive, this feature brings a dash of personality to your climbing gear. While it's not a game-changer in terms of performance, it's a nice detail that climbers have found appealing.
There were some minor gripes regarding the original packaging, with a few customers commenting that the container isn't as user-friendly as others on the market. However, it's worth noting that these comments were few and did not significantly impact the overall satisfaction levels with the product.
The crux of the matter is, the Midnight Lightning Chalktopus is both a trusty companion on the rocks and a conversation starter. Playful in design yet serious in performance, it certainly makes its mark on the climbing community.
Packaging
The striking imagery grabbed the attention of many climbers. Some found the design of the ball to be a bit challenging to use while on the wall, required a little adjustment. However, they appreciated that it is refillable and environmentally friendly.
Purity & Additives
Reviewers loved the Midnight Lightning Chalktopus for its lack of unnecessary additives. While it's high purity level led to a minimalist chalk, some did note that this resulted in a little more dust than chalks with more anti-caking agents. People with breathing issues appreciated this product for producing less dust overall compared to the others on the market.
Texture
The Midnight Lightning Chalktopus's texture is noted as one of its great benefits. Users described it as finer than other brands, which gave them excellent grip on diverse surfaces. Some climbers found this too fine, but the majority thought it was just right.
Value
The Chalktopus is at a higher price point than some of its competitors. Users found that the superior quality and the longer lifespan of the chalk balanced out the initial investment. They also liked the size and believed that it lasted longer, therefore presenting better value for money over time.
Prices
No prices found. Check back later!
Friction Labs Secret Stuff
$19.00Best Climbing Chalk for Liquid Chalk
Based on our research and testing, we think the Friction Labs Secret Stuff is a solid choice if you want a climbing chalk that's really well suited to Liquid Chalk.
Reasons to Buy
- Fast-drying formula
- Improves grip
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic
Reasons to Avoid
- Pricey
- May dry out skin
- Some find the texture too thin
The Important Specs
- Volume: 75 ml
- Drying Time: About 90 seconds to fully dry
- Ingredients: Magnesium Carbonate, Alcohol, Thickening Agents
Review Roundup
Friction Labs Secret Stuff is a well-regarded choice among the climbing community for its stellar performance when it comes to grip-enhancing properties. It is a liquid-based chalk, which offers a practical and clean option for climbers over the more traditional powder chalk.
Climbers have reported that this product sticks to the hands well without leaving an excessive white dust residue everywhere. It's preferred by users who love to keep their climbing environment clean and dust-free. The consistency of the product has been praised to be just right – not too thick nor too runnish.
Ambitious climbers, who need an edge over difficult routes, have found that the Friction Labs Secret Stuff delivers a great deal of friction, thus increasing their grip, leading to optimal climbing conditions. According to users, the enhanced friction capacity seems to give them extra confidence while scaling tough walls.
As a plus, customers have noted that Friction Labs Secret Stuff does not dry out their hands compared to traditional chalk, thanks to its alcohol-based nature. It evaporates quickly but leaves the skin sufficiently moisturized.
On the downside, some climbers feel that it doesn't stay as long on their hands compared to powder chalk. Other customers have also shared concerns about the price - arguing that it is a bit on the higher side compared to other liquid chalks on the market.
A few customers have noticed that the bottle's size is a bit small, which may affect its lastingness if one is an intense and regular climber. That being said, many have reported that you only need a small amount for each application, which can offset the size issue.
Despite this, the majority of climbers rave about Friction Labs Secret Stuff. Its mess-free application, improved grip, and careful hand treatment have received commendations across climbing forums.
Packaging
The packaging of the Friction Labs Secret Stuff is quite traditional, ergonomically designed in a 75 ml container with a screw-top lid. This design makes the product easy to tote around on climbing outings. The flip side is that the liquid chalk has the tendency to spill if not properly secured – a few users mentioned this as a minor issue.
Purity & Additives
Friction Labs Secret Stuff boasts of its highly refined and pure Magnesium Carbonate content, something it takes pride in. This translates into better performance and less damage to the skin, beneficial for climbers. However, consistent use can be drying for some, so it's recommended to use some hand moisturizer afterwards if needed. As an eco-friendly and non-toxic product, it's safe and guilt-free.
Texture
Friction Labs Secret Stuff has a unique texture that isn't too thick or grainy. The lotion-like consistency allows for an easy application, and it dries quickly, in under 90 seconds. While it does offer an excellent grip and doesn't produce a chalky mess, a few users have reported that the texture may feel a bit too thin for some tastes.
Value
When it comes to the value proposition, this is where opinions start to diverge. The quality of the product is undeniably high and if excellent grip and minimum residue is what you're after, this product delivers. However, this high-end climbing chalk comes with a higher price tag, so it may not fit within everyone's budget. Particularly for beginners or those who don’t climb frequently, the cost may feel steep.
Prices
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