Polish language/Rock climbing/Route characteristics

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Joshua Tree NP - North Overhang - 5

There are certain features of a route that are visible from the first glance. Providing that the route does not have many meters, any climber may analyse the line of the climb and possible difficulties while standing on the ground. Below, you may find some route characterictics that reveal the level of difficulty of the climb.

  • Vertical wall - Ściana pionowa If the route runs on vertical wall it may be assumed that it is quite easy as there is no obstacle in the form of gradient. However, some vertical climbs can be really demanding if the holds are really small. Than the climber needs to go for very technical movements in order to ascent the climb.
  • Overhang - Przewieszenie A route that is overhanging is demanding for a climber as it requires a lot of strength. Only more difficult routes with high grades have a section of rock that overhangs. This type usually puts a climber into a lot of struggle. As it is visible in the picture on the right: the man is going to face the rock hanging above his head which may be a challenging part of the climb. See also here :Overhanging
  • Chimney - Komin - Two rock formations that are distanced from each other and force the climber to use both of them by spreading hands and legs in order to keep balance and move upwards. A demanding type of the route that calls for a good sense of balance and technical skills.
  • Crack - Rysa - Climbing along the crack involves blocking your hands inside the crack and pulling yourself. This characteristic of the route is also very demanding and technical. Climbers often tape their hands before climbing cracks in order to avoid hand injuries.