We offer three types of climbing at our wall: Bouldering, top roping and lead climbing. Bouldering involves climbing on shorter walls without a rope with soft pads below to jump or safely fall onto. The only requirements for bouldering at our wall are climbing shoes, which can be rented from the pro shop, and listening to a short safety orientation with our staff. After that, the wall is yours to climb!

Top rope climbing involves both the climber and belayer to wear a climbing harness, and for the climber to tie into one end of a rope secured to a fixed anchor at the top of the climbing route. The other side of the rope comes down and connects to the belayer. In order to top rope at our wall, you must pass a belay test, offered during open rec (insert link to hours page), from our climbing wall staff.

Finally, lead climbing is a form of climbing in which the climber clips their rope into fixed anchors as they ascend their route while their partner, at the base of the wall, lead belays for them. Like with top rope climbing, you must obtain a lead climbing certification by taking a lead belay test during open recreation lead climbing times.

No problem! Our “Learn to Belay” classes are the perfect fit for you. These classes are offered weekly and teach the fundamentals of top rope climbing and belaying. The content offered will provide you with the knowledge to pass our standard belay test. Find a class that works with your schedule here!

We have everything you need available to rent at the FitRec Pro Shop, adjacent to the Climbing Wall. If you are bouldering, all you need are climbing shoes and a chalk bag is optional. If you are top roping, you will need climbing shoes, a harness, and a belay device (unless a staff member is belaying for you). If you are unsure, you can always ask our staff.

Climbing Set (incl. shoes, harness, and chalk bag. Helmet and belay device available on request): $6

• Shoes: $3
• Harness: $3
• Chalk Bag: $1
• Belay Device: $2

Want unlimited gear rentals for the semester? Our semester gear pass is the best fit for you.

Absolutely! You just need to have a BU Climbing Wall lead certification card displayed on your harness at all times. If you do not currently hold a BU lead certification card, you can schedule a test by filling out this form.

Participants are responsible for understanding the refund policy for the Outdoor Programs climbing program(s) they are registering for: 

• More than 7 days before the date of first class: A FULL refund will be given
• Less than 7 days before the date of first class: A 50% refund will be given
• NO REFUNDS will be given to those who cancel within 48 hours regardless of the circumstance.

Outdoor Programs does not issue refunds for climbing programs that are not attended. Outdoor Programs reserves the right not to issue a refund at the discretion of the program administrators.