slopers

A sloper is a type of handhold used in rock climbing and bouldering characterized by a rounded, inclined surface with little to no positive edge for the fingers. Slopers rely on friction, contact area, and the climber’s body tension rather than a biteable edge, making them more demanding than many other holds. They can occur on natural rock or artificial routes and vary in curvature from gentle to very gradual slopes.

Slopers come in a range of shapes, from smooth, palm-facing surfaces to holds with a shallow lip or a slight indentation. They are common on overhanging terrain and can be integrated into routes to test grip, trust, and dynamic movement. Climbers often encounter slopers in both sport climbing and bouldering problems, sometimes as key moves or final holds.

Grip and technique for slopers emphasize an open-handed contact rather than crimping or pinching. Climbers try to keep the entire palm in contact with the surface, lightly locking the wrist and fingers, and using forearm and shoulder tension to maintain pressure. Proper footwork and hip positioning are critical to keep the body close to the wall and to prevent the hold from spinning. Chalk, dry skin, and body positioning influence grip quality, and many sloper sequences require a controlled or dynamic move.

Training and progression for slopers typically involve practicing on easier, well-graded problems to build confidence and technique, followed by progressive difficulty. Emphasis is placed on balance, core strength, and precise footwork rather than raw finger strength alone. Skin care and injury prevention are also important, as slopers can increase strain on the hands and forearms.