Manchester'S Rock Climbing Craze: What Your Gear Says About You

Bouldering and rock climbing are quickly becoming the go-to activities for Manchester's student crowd. Whether they’re genuinely passionate or simply looking to enhance their Fallowfield aesthetic, climbing offers a thrilling escape from academic pressures.

Spend a little time around the Sharston or Rockover Central sites, and you'll notice some climbing enthusiasts hitting the walls three times a week. It might appear as though they're training for an intense competition, but in reality, it's just a creative way to dodge the library.

One can't help but notice the iconic climbing look: long-haired guys with Arc’teryx beanies and chalk-covered hands, hanging from ceilings like acrobatic bats. But what exactly does a Manchester climber's outfit say about them?

Jeans are a statement of hardcore dedication. If you're rocking jeans, you're not afraid of a little chalk dust and have clearly rushed straight from a lecture. Bonus points if they’re baggy – it screams, "I'm laid-back and ready for a good time, but I want to look stylish while doing it."

Shorts signal that you're in the know. Their flexibility and breathability mark you as a true climber, and that instant confidence boost makes it clear you mean business.

Joggers – especially if they’re Nike or Stüssy – are the perfect choice for brisk winter months. They’re not just breathable and stretchy; they exude effortless coolness, saying, "I'm here for the vibes and nothing else."

Meanwhile, leggings suggest you're relaxed, eager for fun, and proud to flaunt those Stairmaster gains – much respect.

And then there are the climbing trousers. If you're wearing these, your skills are likely off the charts. People might wonder, "How is it humanly possible to move like that?" This gear says you're a climbing enthusiast through and through. Extra kudos if they were a festive gift.

So, whether you're a jean-wearing daredevil or a leggings-loving chill-seeker, Manchester's climbing scene has a place for everyone. The question is, what does your outfit say about you?