Best Climbing Chalk Bags of 2024
Chalk bags and chalk buckets for gym, bouldering, single-pitch, multi-pitch, and alpine climbers
Home > Gear Reviews
June 5th, 2024
Rock climbing is a difficult sport that combines flexibility with strength and stamina to allow adventurers to ascend to the top of the route. Adding chalk and the appropriate chalk bag to the climbing environment helps the climber to keep their hands dry and prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
Chalk bags come in muted tones, colorful palettes, and simple and complex designs. Some of them have built-in pockets for essential climbing items like hand warmers. Others are intended to be used for the single purpose of holding your chalk. Whatever the design, every chalk bag should reduce chalk spillage, create great access to chalk while the climber is on the move, and be built to be abrasion-proof.
Over the past decade, we’ve taken chalk bags on multi-pitch and big wall routes all around the globe, including to places like National Park Paklenica in Croatia, which is covered with limestone single pitches. Then we spent time at our home crag in Colorado, and we even tested in Yosemite National Park. Conditions ranged from perfectly sunny days to less-than-ideal situations, with rain, hail and even snow in the mix. The style of climbing included everything from light bouldering to gym climbing and alpine routes in the Rockies.
We rated each chalk bag based on factors like weight, affordability, material, style, and overall functionality. Here’s what we found.
Different types of chalk perform better with certain bags. Check out our comprehensive guide on the Best Climbing Chalk to find the best match for your chalk bag.
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Chalk bag comparison table
| CHALK BAG | TREELINE AWARD | WEIGHT | MATERIAL | CLOSURE | POCKETS | MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8B PLUS Lilly Chalk Bag | Best Overall Read why |
4.4 oz | 100% polyester artificial fur and fleece | drawstring | 2x brush holders | $33 |
| Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag | Best Closure Read why |
3 oz | repurposed nylon fabric | drawcord | brush holder | $33 |
| Arc'teryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag | Best Lightweight Read why |
2.6 oz | 100-denier SD CORDURA nylon 6,6 dobby 120 g/m2 | $40 | ||
| Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag | Best Multi-pitch Read why |
4.9 oz | Polyester, fleece | Drawstring with a left handed cinch | Two zippered | $40 |
| Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag | Best Affordable Read why |
3 oz | TPU | Drawstring with a moldable wire rim | None | $20 |
The winners
Best overall chalk bag: 8B Plus Lilly Chalk Bag
Weight: 4.4 oz
Material: Polyester, artificial fur
Closure: Drawstring
Pockets: None
What we liked: The bag’s character, functionality, lightweight
What we didn’t like: Easily mis-identified as a dog toy, quick to dirty
Like most climbers, we love character, which is one of many reasons why the 8B Plus Lilly Chalk Bag stands out as the obvious chalk bag winner. It’s funny and guaranteed to elicit a laugh from your partner. Yet it is also functional, and it is light enough to pack on extended journeys.
This chalk bag is made by climbers for climbers, and it shows. The quirkiness, conscious material use, and overall design point to a brand that prioritizes both laughter and efficiency, which we love!
We took this chalk bag top roping inside, and on multi-pitch climbs in the Rockies. Early spring time conditions brough mostly sunny skies with light moisture and a chill in the air. This bag managed to keep the chalk dry while providing access when we needed it the most.
View the 8B Plus Lilly Chalk Bag
8BPlus Lilly chalk bag
Features
The 8B Plus Lilly Chalk Bag weighs 4.4 oz, which is a great middle-of-the-road chalk bag weight. While it’s possible to find competitive products that weigh a few ounces less, its added durability makes it worth the extra bulk.
The 8BPlus Lilly chalk bag adds some personality and humor to climbing
It also comes with a stiff rim and a wide mouth opening, which makes it really easy to chalk up during a climb, regardless of your hand size. The wired rim can also be molded to fit a specific shape if you prefer an oval or square-sized mouth to the standard circle. The included bag also makes it easy to to stuff this chalk bag into your pack without creating a puff of chalk.
Don't like purple? 8BPlus has other characters in red, white, blue, and brown
Our main drawback with this chalk bag is that the furry exterior is more prone to attracting debris and moisture than other bags. While the interior typically remains dry, the outside of the bag often isn’t as lucky.
Additionally, while we think it’s thoughtful to include a small carabiner with the bag that can be used to clip it to your harness, we never carry non-climbing-rated carabiners on our harness because it’s a safety hazard. No one wants to accidentally grab the wrong carabiner mid-climb, and watch it break under the weight of impact. Those with dogs (like us) should also keep in mind that this chalk bag vaguely resembles a dog toy, which is funny but not ideal for the longevity of the bag.
Non-climbing carabiner
Sustainability
8B Plus’ emphasis on sustainability makes this chalk bag a catch. The brand partners with Tide Ocean Material to both clean and reuse materials from the sea. The resulting ocean plastic can be found on items like chalk brushes. And who doesn’t love an eco-conscious brand?
Conclusion
Overall, this chalk bag does everything from entertain your fellow climbers with its goofy smile to provide a chalk cache that prevents spillage without limiting access. The wide mouth allows climbers to easily slip their hand inside before chalking up for the next move. And, admittedly, this chalk bag’s character is enough to make us look twice by itself.
Chalk bag with best closure: Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag
Weight: 3 oz
Material: Repurposed nylon, fleece
Closure: Drawstring with center cinch
Pockets: Two
What we liked: Tight closure, a smartphone fits in the zippered pocket
What we didn’t like: Price
Okay, so there are a lot of things that we love about the Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag, but one of its top features is its closure system which somehow seems to keep everything in place even when you’re jostling around for long stretches of time.
When paired with a structure rim, this chalk bag does a really good job of maintaining chalk access while allowing you to tightly close the system to avoid spillage and chalk loss. Made with Cotopaxi’s typical colorful fashion, this chalk bag manages to operate efficiently and with a little bit of aesthetic flare.
View the Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag
Cotopaxi Halcon close up
Features
The Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag also weighs just 3 oz, which is the lightest chalk bag we tested next to the Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag. The drawstring ends at the center of the chalk bag for easy, ambidextrous use, it's made with repurposed nylon and fleece, and it has loads of personality (and what did we say about loving a little bit of climber character earlier?).
In addition to boasting of a powerful personality, this chalk bag also has a 1.5 L capacity, making it one of the more generously-sized options. It even has two pockets, which is impressive for such a lightweight chalk bag. And they’re big enough to (possibly) even fit a phone, if desired.
The biggest drawback of the Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag is its price. While it isn’t the most expensive bag we’ve seen, it’s not an insignificant amount.
Cotopaxi Halcon in an alpine setting
Sustainability
Cotopaxi, as a brand, is also easy to love. It’s currently on a mission to create all of the brand’s products with recycled and repurposed materials by 2025. As of right now, the brand is 94% of the way to this goal, which has made a significant impact on its fossil fuel use.
Tommy Campbell wearing the Cotopaxi Halcon
Conclusion
The closure system of the Halcon Chalk Bag is one of the best that we’ve encountered, but we’re also fans of this chalk bag because of its eco-friendly design, its pockets, its extra-lightweight design and interior volume. The weight-to-volume ratio is pretty much impossible to match.
Best lightweight chalk bag: Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag
Weight: 2.6 ounces
Material: Nylon
Closure: Drawstring spiral closure with left hand cinch, wire rim
Pockets: None
What we liked: Extremely light for its size
What we didn’t like: Left-hand cinch
Sometimes all we want is a lightweight climbing setup that doesn’t add bulk to our luggage on long trips. Enter: the Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag. It is a phenomenal addition to any harness (and it’s not just because this bag has “lightweight” in its name).
View the Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag
Tommy Campbell with the Arcteryx Ion in the gym
Features
The Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag weighs just 2.6 oz, making it the lightest option we tested by far. Built with nylon, it’s still relatively abrasion resistant, and compact enough to bring anywhere.built to handle extreme climbs. This chalk bag comes with a drawstring spiral closure and a wide wire rim and a left hand, which can be shaped to the climber’s preferences. It comes in two neutral colors, and a single size (medium), and also features a chalk brush elastic loop.
Despite all of these amazing features, there are a few things we don’t love about this chalk bag. The price tag is high. Additionally, the cinch is on the left side, which can make accessing it inconvenient. If the cinch is in the wrong place, you end up clinging to the wall with one hand and fumbling around for longer than you want to with the other hand to access chalk.
Tracy on lead with the Arcteryx Ion in the Rockies
Sustainability
We do love Arcteryx's mission to support sustainable efforts. The main approach that this company adopts is creating long-lasting products that seldom need to be replaced. And the Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag is a good example. While it isn’t as bulletproof as some chalk bags, it can hold its own on a scramble.
Tracy hanging out with the Arcteryx Ion chalk bag
Conclusion
Those who are particularly weight conscious will be quick to love the Arcteryx Ion Lightweight Chalk Bag for its simple design, and featherlight construction. Unlike one might expect from its weight, this chalk bag is also a great size and volume, making it easy to access chalk even when you’re flailing on a wall deep in the Rockies. no matter where you are.
Best chalk bag for multi-pitch: Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag
Weight: 4.9 oz
Material: Polyester, fleece
Closure: Drawstring with a left handed cinch
Pockets: Two zippered
What we liked: Locking belt, pockets, durability
What we didn’t like: Neither pocket holds a phone
Alpine climbing requires a little bit of extra spirit than gym and single-pitch climbing. It often involves extra type-2 fun, leaving you shivering in the shadows while your partner flails on a wall for hours. One of the unique challenges of alpine climbing is balancing a lightweight pack with the right amount of safety equipment. This is one area where the Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag stands out – it takes a clever design and spins it into an experience-enhancing chalk bag instead of adding bulk without return. However, carrying an alpine-specific chalk bag like the Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag is a genius move for this situation because it’s built to battle extreme environments right along with you.
View the Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag
Mammut Alpine Bag
Features
The Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag comes with two generous zippered compartments that are ideal for carrying items like hand warmers in freezing conditions. They might also fit items like a small tube of sunscreen or even a snack for those long pitches.
This chalk bag also comes with a shape-retaining opening, a brush holder, and a dustproof cord to keep it feeling functional and fresh no matter how long the journey. But the feature we love the most on this chalk bag is the locking belt, which prevents the climber from accidentally unclipping from it during multi-pitch climbs. This chalk bag also has a left hand cinch, which is a little bit easier for lefties to use.
Front pocket on the Mammut Alpine Bag
While the Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag comes with tons of great features, it’s on the costly and heavy side for a chalk bag. The cost of it is $5 to $10 more dollars than the standard chalk bagIt runs $39.95 and it weighs 4.9 oz – neither of which are deal breakers. But they are important considerations for athletes that typically prefer going light and fast (and that live a lifestyle of depravity to climb as much as possible).
Sustainability
Mammut implements important strategies into its manufacturing process like using recycled materials. The company also established targets to reduce greenhouse emissions that it creates, and it has an animal welfare policy in place. We’d love to see a little bit more transparency from the brand overall, but it seems to be headed in the right direction.
The Alpine Belt on the Mammut chalk bag
Conclusion
Since alpine climbing routes tend to be extremely involved, it can be really helpful to have a carefully-designed chalk bag like the Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag on hand. This chalk bag’s polyester design and fleece lining is made to keep your chalk and lace (and maybe warm your hands between moves), and it’s likely to last a long time due to its construction, which is essential for alpine dirtbags.
Best affordable chalk bag: Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag
Weight: 3 oz
Material: TPU
Closure: Drawstring with a moldable wire rim
Pockets: None
What we liked: Comes with BD’s 2-year warrants, no frills
What we didn’t like: Closure system could be more secure
Climbing gear can be overwhelmingly expensive. Collecting essential items like belay devices, and harnesses is enough to make most people balk. But your chalk bag doesn’t have to hurt your pocketbook. At least, not when you’ve got your eyes on the Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag.
View the Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag
Black Diamond Mojo size comparison with other chalk bags
Features
This cylindrical chalk bag costs under $20, it weighs just 3 oz, and it’s made out of extremely durable materials which makes it a great pick for those who prioritize cost as well as longevity. The moldable wire rim is also a win for most climbers since it allows them to shape the mouth of the bag for comfort. Plus the drawstring closure ends right at the middle of the chalk bag, which makes it easy to access for both lefties and righties. It even comes with 6 different color options.
There aren’t many things we dislike about this chalk bag, however, it’s one of the smaller chalk bags on this list which means that those who use it have to refill it more often than other products. In most situations, this is no big deal, but as you get into multi-day adventures, it becomes a hindrance. Additionally, the closure isn’t quite as tight as swivel closures,which means you’re more prone to losing chalk while using this bag.
Black Diamond Mojo internal material
Sustainability
One thing we do love about Black Diamond is their mission to support sustainable practices. Not only does Black Diamond operate with a sustainable mentality in place, but it also uses the same ethos when partnering with vendors. This means that the company highlights environmental responsibility as a necessity not only for itself but also for companies with which they work.
Conclusion
When it comes down to finding a chalk bag that accomplishes the climber’s basic needs without coming with a hefty price tag, the Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag is tough to beat. In fact, standard chalk bags are $5 to $10 more expensive than this little bag. So, for us, the Mojo is an easy sell.
Most durable chalk bag: Organic Climbing Chalk Bag
Weight: 4 oz (for size large)
Material: Cordura, polyester, nylon belt
Closure: Drawstring with a center cinch
Pockets: None
What we liked: Customizable colors and size options
What we didn’t like: On the narrow side
Rock scrambles and chimneys have a way of destroying everything on your body from skin to clothing and gear, which is why choosing the most durable climbing gear goes a long way in your efforts to reduce the number of replacements you’ll need. Chalk bags require durable elements in the same way that the rest of your climbing gear does, which is one reason why we love the ORGANIC Climbing Chalk Bag.
View the Organic Climbing Chalk Bag
ORGANIC chalk bag durable materials
Features
The ORGANIC Climbing Chalk Bag is made out of cordura and polyester materials, making it one of the most durable chalk bags we’ve ever seen. You could probably place this thing in a blender, and it’d put up a good fight. Yet despite its indestructible design, it weighs just 4 oz and costs just $25.This chalk bag also comes with a nylon belt, a drawstring with a center cinch, and it can be customized to fit different style and sizing needs.
The only thing we don’t LOVE about this chalk bag is that its design is on the narrow side of the spectrum, which can be a deterrent for those of us with big hands. It also lacks flare like color and pockets, which is no big deal if you want to use it for the single purpose of holding chalk.
Tommy Campbell on top rope with the ORGANIC bag.
Conclusion
However, since the ORGANIC Climbing Chalk Bag is tough as can be, and made with the kind of construction that’s impossible to undo, this stands out as one of our favorite chalk bags. Few competitive bags maintain such composure in the face of being dragged across jagged rocks. What’s not to love about such ferocity?
Best Chalk Bag for Bouldering: Static Ranger Chalk Bucket
Weight: 12 oz
Material: Canvas, fleece
Closure: Velcro
Pockets: Two pockets
What we liked: The style, solid base
What we didn’t like: Overkill for most settings, less versatile than other chalk bags
STATIC makes really beautiful chalk bags that are built for prolonged adventures in highly-abrasive and even moist environments. The STATIC Ranger Chalk Bucket is a good example of the style of bag that STATIC makes, with its waxed canvas design. This chalk bucket is massive, which some boulderers prefer since they don’t have to lug the weight of the bag around on their body.
View the Static Ranger Chalk Bucket
Static Bucket in the wild
Features
The STATIC Ranger Chalk Bucket weighs 12 oz, it comes with two large pockets that easily store items like tape, bandaids, and liquid chalk. The base of the chalk bag is wide, which means that it generally stand on its own. The interior fleece liner absorbs extra chalk, which means that even when you run out of chalk, there’s still some left over in the walls for you to use. This bag even comes with 3 chalk brush loops for quick and easy access, and it is handmade unlike most other bags. It even comes with a California Lifetime Warranty.
However, the STATIC Ranger Chalk Bucket isn’t particularly versatile, and it’s easily the most expensive chalk bag on this list (and it costs about double that of other chalk buckets) While it’s not a bad option for boulderers or sport climbers who hate approaches, we found that it was overkill for most settings. (Speaking of approaches, don’t forget to check out our guide to Best Approach Shoes!)
Conclusion
Despite the STATIC Ranger Chalk Bucket’s price tag, it does fit most bouldering environments nicely. Those who hate filling their chalk bag can likely wait many weeks or even months before filling this bag again. Additionally, the waxed canvas materials make it resistant to moisture, and super durable, which means that the big will likely last for many years.
Static Bucket while bouldering indoors
Other chalk bags we tested
Static Waxed Canvas Chalk Bag
Weight: 4.5 oz
Material: Canvas, fleece
Closure: Drawcord with center cinch
Pockets: None
What we liked: Lifetime warranty, durability
What we didn’t like: Collapses during use
The STATIC Waxed Canvas Chalk Bag is eye-catching, and alluring because of its lifetime warranty. Made with canvas and fleece, this bag holds up to the test of time. However, it has a tendency to collapse, which can make accessing chalk in high-stakes situations uncomfortable at best. And it doesn’t come with a belt (we think that even if you’re a climber who prefers to replace the belt with a cordalete, a belt should be included).
View the Static Waxed Canvas Chalk Bag
Weight: 4.5 oz
Material: Recycled polyester, fleece
Closure: Drawstring with left hand cinch
Pockets: None
What we liked: Simple, compact, water repellant, recycled components
What we didn’t like: On the pricey side for what it is
The prAna Chalk Bag with a Belt is a good basic chalk bag option for those who aren’t particularly weight or price-conscious. However, given its simplicity we found $35 to be a bit pricey. There are a number of other climbing chalk bags that offer the same features for $10 less like the Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag.
View the Prana Chalk Bag with Belt
Weight: 4.5 oz
Material: Recycled polyester, fleece
Closure: Drawstring with left hand cinch
Pockets: None
What we liked: Simple, compact, water repellant, recycled components
What we didn’t like: On the pricey side for what it is
The prAna Design Chalk Bag is similar to the prAna Chalk Bag and a similar good basic chalk bag option for those who aren’t particularly weight or price-conscious. The main difference is that it's more colorful and quirky than the standard prAna Chalk Bag. However, given its simplicity we found $35 to be a bit pricey.
View the Prana Graphic Chalk Bag with Belt
The prAna Graphic Chalk Bag is similar to the prAna Chalk bag with more colorful designs
Weight: 4.8 oz
Material: Polyester
Closure: Drawstring
Pockets: None
What we liked: Simple, water-resistant, 5 color options, cost
What we didn’t like: No stand-out features
While the Kavu Peak Seeker Chalk Bag is one of the most affordable chalk bags available, the closure system can be finicky, which is a big problem for chalk bags. The grommet seems to be prone to failure, which could result in a non-locking chalk bag. Another Treeline Review tester found the drawstrings twisted and locked up, and we’re worried about its longevity.
View the Kavu Peak Seeker Chalk Bag
Weight: 7 oz
Material: Recycled cordura, nylon
Closure: Velcro
Pockets: One zippered pocket
What we liked: The price, customization options
What we didn’t like: Unstable base, awfully tall for a bucket
It can be really nice to have a big supply of chalk if you spend a lot of time bouldering. However, most chalk buckets come with a super stable base that keeps them upright while they’re not in use. This is one area where the ORGANIC Climbing Lunch Bag Chalk Bucket doesn’t compete. It’s 11 inches tall and has a 7 inch by 7 inch base, which means that it doesn’t take much to collapse this bag, and end up with dust all over.
View the Organic Climbing Lunch Bag Chalk Bucket
The ORGANIC Climbing Lunch Bag Chalk Bucket is prone to collapsing.
Why do you need chalk and chalk bag for climbing
Christie Susie on lead with the 8B Plus Lilly chalk bag
Rock climbing involves incredible finesse and dexterity, forcing you to use tiny imperfections of the rock to ascend. Like gymnasts and weightlifters, climbers use chalk to dry their hands before attempting challenging physical endeavors.
The whole process provides protection and an added layer of security while climbing, and the chalk bag plays an extremely important role in keeping you confident while on the wall since it allows you to carry this moisture-fighting ingredient no matter where you are. Here are a few additional reasons why you need chalk and a chalk bag for climbing.
Extra storage on the Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag
Improved grip, Moisture Control, and Blister Prevention
If you’ve ever climbed a popular route in a well-trafficked area, you know how quickly rock becomes polished. Routes that were once textured become glossy and smooth as more people climb it, which is where chalk and chalk bags come into the picture.
Chalk bags allow you to carry chalk that improves grip, reduces moisture, and prevents blisters or flappers (when a piece of flesh is partially torn off of your hands) on tough climbs. Reducing moisture allows you to reduce slippage as you go, giving you a strong grip and reducing the likelihood of catching callouses on the rock.
Hygiene
Tommy Campbell using the Kavu Peak Seeker chalk bag in the gym
Another role that chalk and chalk bags play during climbing is improving hygiene. Accessible chalk - chalk that is readily available to support you even halfway up a climb, allows you to create a barrier between your hands and the surface on which you’re climbing, which is good for both you and other climbers.
A proper chalk bag better allows you to maintain this barrier whether you’re climbing all day or 1,000 feet off of the ground. It simply creates the mobile compartment you need to maintain dry, protected hands as you move.
Tommy Campbell descending with the ORGANIC chalk bag
Psychological Boost
As you become more engrossed in the world of climbing, you might find that a chalk bag provides a little bit of psychological protection as well. Many climbers go through a small checklist of items they need before attempting a climb, and knowing that they have all of those items (including a handy chalk bag) can provide extra reassurance and comfort prior to an attempt.
And, let’s be honest, sometimes we can use all of the help we can get before a particularly run out or challenging route. While carrying chalk and a chalk bag won’t necessarily make or break the route, the practice typically provides you with the added confidence boost to make it up the wall.
What to look for in a climbing chalk bag
Testing chalk bags in the climbing gym
It’s easy to overlook the importance of a chalk bag, but it actually provides a lot of value. It better enables you to stay prepared no matter if you’re on a multi-pitch route or bouldering in the gym. Yet determining what to look for in a climbing bag can be a challenge.
While chalk bags vary in size, style, and type, there are a few characteristics that they should all have including durable materials, a simple attachment system, and a comfortable and efficient interior.
Here are a few key components that you should consider prior to making a chalk bag purchase.
Chalk bag size comparison
Comfort and Usability
Carrying the right chalk bag is a great way to set yourself up for success on a new route. It can be really frustrating to end up in the middle of a chalk bag mishap mid-climb. Common chalk bag mishaps include faulty closure systems (which can leave you spewing chalk out on your belayer as you climb), and choosing the wrong size, which makes it difficult to fit your hands inside.
Another consideration is that hand size varies. If you have particularly small or large hands, it's likely that you could benefit from a chalk bag that corresponds in size. Similarly, the location of the closure cinch can determine whether you’ll be fumbling around with it mid-climb or it will be easy to access. Opting for a middle cinch, or a cinch on the side that corresponds with your hand dominance is a surefire way to set yourself up for success.
Durability
Since maintaining a dry and secure chalk bag is vital to the chalk it protects, it’s important to look for a chalk bag that has quick-drying or moisture-resistant, sturdy materials. Just picture yourself scrambling through a gulley or sliding down a steep slope. The image might conjure feelings of adventure, but those situations are very hard on gear like your chalk bag, which is why you should consider a bag with some reinforcement.
Material
Comparing materials on the ORGANIC, 8B Plus, and Arcteryx chalk bags
In order to meet these requirements, many brands rely on polyester and nylon to get the job done. Both of these materials are known for being lightweight. They also dry quickly, can often be used in a recycled form, and they are relatively durable against abrasions and protrusions.
Internally, most chalk bags contain some type of felt which is both soft to the touch and great at trapping chalk particles inside. Additionally, as more and more brands become eco-conscious, many chalk bag options are made with 100% recycled materials.
Size and capacity
When it comes to size and capacity, determining which option to choose really comes down to preference. We often use a midsize chalk bag for all of our climbing needs, because the reality is that the weight difference between a medium and a small or large chalk bag isn’t usually particularly significant. And barring a few extreme situations, a simple chalk bag accommodates most needs.
However, alpinists or multi-pitch climbers likely gravitate to small, compact bags to travel fast and light, while boulderers and sport climbers may opt for a bigger version of a chalk bag like a chalk bucket because they don’t have to travel far to the route, and they’re more likely to encounter polished rock. The key is choosing an option that fits the majority of your climbing needs.
Tommy Campbell using the Kavu Peak Seeker indoors
Closure mechanism
Another consideration is the closing mechanism. Most chalk bags have some type of a cinch cord that allows you to trap all of the chalk inside of the bag during your climb. It’s an essential mechanism but it needs to both close and open efficiently, otherwise you might find yourself struggling to chalk up mid climb. There are a handful of chalk bags that come with zippers instead of cinches, which is also a reasonable option in the right environment.
Attachment options
STATIC Waxed Canvas Chalk Bag in action
The standard chalk bag also comes with some type of a webbing or corded belt that can easily be fitted to your waist. But it’s important to note that some bags won’t come with a cord at all, which could necessitate some ingenuity or an additional purchase. For example, some multi-pitch adventurers prefer to use a cordelette as a waist belt on their chalk bag because it’s an extra piece of safety equipment that could be used to bail yourself out in a pinch.
Extra Features
Some chalk bags have bonus features like pockets
Most chalk bags come with a simple structure that’s intended to hold your chalk alone. On occasion, you might come across a bag with a pocket or two. Some pockets can be used to hold items like climbing tape, sunscreen and brushes. Others might even fit a cellphone. This is a bonus feature in most ways, barring the fact that it usually adds a few ounces of weight to the bag. Additional features that some chalk bags offer include locking waist belts (which are great for alpine ascents), and brush holders.
Color & Patterns
In addition to considering chalk bag structure, many climbers love a colorful or goofy looking chalk bag. Climbers are notoriously silly, and one way that their character is exhibited at the crag is through their chalk bag. With colorful chalk bag options like the Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag or the 8B Plus Lily Chalk Bag, it’s super easy to lean into the climber character. Some chalk bags even feature original artwork.
Black Diamond Mojo vs. ORGANIC Climbing Chalk Bag
How to choose a climbing chalk bag
When it comes to choosing the right chalk bag, the priority should be efficiency. We love a chalk bag that keeps chalk inside even when it’s squished. There’s also something to be said for chalk bags with a wired opening that holds its shape and allows you to access chalk even in awkward positions.
Choosing the right climbing chalk bag comes down to a few different components:
Environment you'll be climbing
Chalk type
Preferences and Priorities
Environment
A climber wearing the Cotopaxi Halcon in an alpine environment.
The first thing you should consider while preparing to choose the right chalk bag is your preferred climbing environment. If you mainly expect to climb indoors, most chalk bags should fit your needs.
However, many indoor climbers find that large chalk bags or buckets are convenient since they hold more chalk.
Single-pitch sport climbers often gravitate towards medium to large-sized chalk bags that hold a days’ worth of chalk.
Testing chalk bags in a multi-pitch environment.
Multi-pitch and alpine climbers are more inclined to choose basic chalk bags that weigh next to nothing and come with a super secure closure.
Related: Check out our review on Best Climbing Rope Bags.
Chalk Type
Block vs. loose chalk.
Prefered chalk type also plays a role in chalk bag choice. Those who prefer loose chalk, for example, require an extra tight and secure closure while those who use blocks have a little bit more flexibility in closure type. Chalk balls fit into most chalk bags, but those with large hands may prefer a more spacious chalk bag that allows them to grasp the chalk bag.
Preferences and Priorities
Finally, consider your preferences before making your final choice. Do you prefer carrying items like lip balm and climbing tape with you? If so, you might need a bag with zippers. Are you someone who’s expecting to learn the basics of climbing and then head into the high country to continue your education? Then you might do better with a compact, water-resistant option. You can’t really go wrong with your chalk bag selection, but some options cater to specific needs more efficiently.
It's not uncommon for climbers to get bloody on their chalk bag
Chalk bag care and maintenance tips
In the same way that your cams and carabiners need occasional maintenance, so does your chalk bag. The fabrics are quick to collect dust and debris, and the interior can easily become saturated with oil and dirt. Maintaining your chalk bag will help to extend the life of your chalk bag and keep your pack clean.
We recommend washing it 2 to 3 times per year. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, most chalk bags can be cleaned with a gentle detergent both by hand or on a gentle cycle in the washing machine. Before you start the cleaning cycle, just be sure to empty it of any chalk, and consider washing it by itself to avoid contaminating other belongings. When the wash cycle is complete, you can air dry it or place it on a gentle cycle in the dryer.
FAQ
How do I fill my chalk bag?
To fill your chalk bag, take it outside into the open air before dumping the chalk into your bag. Fill it until only two or three inches exist between the chalk and the cinch. Repeat the process when only a third of the chalk remains. If you’re using a chalk sock, you should simply place the sock inside your bag. A block chalk can also be placed directly into the chalk bag before being broken up into smaller pieces. The key to preventing an embarrassing puff of chalk from emerging from your bag is to keep your chalk inside of the bag whenever possible, minimizing the opportunities you have to spill.
Filling a chalk bag
How often should I refill my chalk bag?
The frequency with which you refill your chalk bag depends on how often you climb. Most climbers refill their chalk bag every week or every other week. The key is to keep enough chalk in the bag to prevent yourself from running out mid climb without overfilling it.
Can I use any type of chalk in my chalk bag?
Barring liquid chalk, yes. You can use just about any type of chalk in your chalk bag. Just keep in mind that scented chalk usually contains oils, which can get into the fabric of your chalk bag and stay for a long while. So, make sure you like the smell before dumping the chalk into your chalk bag.
What size chalk bag should I choose?
Chalk Buckets are designed with boulderers in mind
Those who prefer to boulder over sport or trad climbing usually use large chalk bags or chalk buckets, while other climbers use medium to small-sized chalk bags. Choosing the right size chalk bag depends on your preferences as well as the environment in which you spend the most time, as well as hand size, which can determine whether you should opt for a small, medium, or large chalk bag.
Can I use a chalk bag for other activities besides climbing?
Yes. Gymnasts and weight lifters often use chalk for many of the same reasons as climbers, although most of them don’t carry a chalk bag since they don’t have to be mobile while they train.
What is the difference between a chalk bag and a chalk bucket?
Chalk bags are meant to be worn around your waist while chalk buckets are big and bulky and are typically left on the ground. Generally, chalk buckets are only used indoors or while bouldering.
Gym testing chalk bags
How we researched and tested
We’ve been testing chalk bags for about a decade in dry, humid, wet, low elevation and high elevation environments. Some of the chalk bags we’ve used were chosen solely based on their aesthetic appeal while others adopted a more functional application. During testing for this article, we took more than a dozen chalk bags to the gym, a sport crag, and a multi-pitch trad crag over the course of a month. Conditions ranged from perfect Colorado bluebird spring days to mildly wet, and snowy conditions at 10,000 feet in elevation.
Tommy Campbell wearing all the chalk bags in the gym
Christie Susie wearing the 8B Plus in the Rockies
About the author / Why you should trust us
Mary Beth Skylis is a freelance writer who specializes in adventure content and travel. She’s been climbing across the globe for more than a decade, and is a total sucker for limestone, granite and long multi-pitch climbs. She’s done everything from covered the gym floor with chalk to dropping chunks from several hundred feet off of the ground on multi-pitch routes, using dozens of chalk bags over time. She currently works as a columnist for Backpacker Magazine. She also has by-lines in Climbing, REI, Alaska Magazine, Women’s Health, Outside Magazines, Trail Runner, SELF, and Yellow Scene. When she isn’t writing, she can typically be found in the Rocky Mountains with her pups. Follow her on Instagram: @h1kertrash
To see all of Mary Beth's stories, check her author page.
