7 Elite Wooden Hangboards You Should Own

Wooden hangboards are a popular training tool among rock climbers who want to improve their finger strength and endurance. In this article, we'll explore what wooden hangboards are, how to use them, and some of the best hangboards that you should buy to help you boost your ability level.

What are Wooden Hangboards?

wooden hangboards what are they

A wooden hangboard is a training tool that typically consists of a flat piece of wood with a series of handholds, or "edges," of varying sizes and shapes.

These edges are designed to simulate different types of holds commonly found on rock climbing routes, such as crimps, pockets, slopers, and jugs. Some wood hangboards may also feature other training elements, such as pinches, rails, or footholds.

1. Tension Climbing Flash Board (Best Hangboard)

Have you ever moved to a new city and found yourself without access to a reliable climbing gym? That was me recently, but luckily I decided on investing in a portable hangboard. This device has allowed me 10 years of rock-climbing experience to still thrive despite not having the luxury of my familiar climbing gym or outdoor climbing walls anymore. While it is undeniably disappointing at times, I am so appreciative that this amazing tool exists!

The edge depths are spot-on and unbelievably comfortable, offering 1/4 pad, 1/3 pad, 1/2 pad, and full-pad options--all the necessary items. What's more, is that there isn't much tipping due to its stable hanging mechanism; this permits me to hang at a higher intensity with assurance.

I was growing accustomed to how my home-crafted hang board caused painful edges before discovering this product which changed everything for me - reminding me of just how cozy those edges can be!

  • Pros: Compact and portable, easy to install.
  • Cons: Limited training features, relatively expensive.

2. Beastmaker 2000 (Best Wooden Hangboard for Most Climbers)

The Beastmaker 2000 lives up to its name in every way. It is filled with highly difficult holds, not a single jug across the board and dual four-finger width warm ups that are as deep as one of the smallest edges on other models I've reviewed. Though there may be fewer larger edges here than elsewhere, what it lacks in size certainly makes up for its heinous small ones!

The 2000 series from Beastmaker is remarkable - not only does it boast a plethora of mono and two-finger pockets, but its 42 degree sloper can withstand even the strongest grip. Furthermore, this model doesn't include any three-finger pockets as they are primarily tailored for one arm use; in fact, I've never seen anyone hang onto that outermost pocket without cheating!

This hangboard is a monster that's perfect for those already climbing 5.13+ routes and confidently utilizing fingerboarding techniques.

  • Pros: Versatile training features, and durable construction.
  • Cons: Some users find the edges to be too sharp, and relatively expensive.

3. Tension Climbing Grindstone Pro (Perfect for advanced and Elite Climbers)

The carefully designed and sanded wood grips offer that extra challenge for the board but do not yield good results in an overly hot environment such as a stuffy rock gym. So no one will dry fire. That's why wooden grips are so awesome - it's a gentler option that helps maintain skin health while still maximizing training.

Thanks to its unique asymmetrical edge layout, you'll never have to worry about having your shoulders too narrow or too wide while using this product: the spacing will always keep width consistent across edges for a comfortable and secure fit. Helping to allow for a more consistent training stimulus.

This single edge has been uniquely crafted to accommodate one-arm hangs, offering the perfect size without being too small for a higher level of finger training. Additionally, it eliminates the redundant plague of multiple jug slots that other hangboards often experience.

Ultimately, Tension Training is a great training aid for climbers of advanced and elite climbers who want to stay finger-strong and prepared during long winter or wet spells. Having this tool in your arsenal will undoubtedly help you achieve higher levels of success; as their tagline says: “Go forth and crush”!

  • Pros: Versatile training features, durable construction.
  • Cons: Limited training features compared to other hangboards in its price range.

4. Lattice Triple Rung (Great For Beginner and Intermediate Climbers)

It is my pleasure to introduce you to the Lattice Triple Rung featuring a 20mm edge - an extraordinary training object that has revolutionized climbing. This piece of equipment offers a unique combination of comfort and difficulty as it does not cause any skin splits or abrasions, yet still proves challenging while hanging due to its rounded shape which provides less friction upon half crimping.

Furthermore, open grips are surprisingly easier because they gain traction from the bigger radius! For vertical and technical goal routes, 10mm Edge is an invaluable addition to HC and FC training.

As a climber with wide shoulders, I particularly enjoy the option of wider grips that feel comfortable and normal for me.

Pros: Extremely comfortable and effective for training. Also highly durable.

Cons:

  • Limited training features compared to other hangboards in its price range.
  • Not ideal for hot environments due to wooden grips.
  • The price is relatively high compared to other boards.

5. Problem Solver Station (Good For Advanced Climbers)

The ProblemSolver Station is the ultimate hangboard for serious climbers who need a compact and versatile training system. This remarkable piece of equipment offers an unparalleled level of customization and variety in its fingerboard exercises, making it perfect for those on the go.

This board is designed with maximum versatility in mind. It features three different sizes of edges for 4-fingers pockets (24mm, 18mm, and 14mm), a pair of two-finger pocket holds, as well as an arm hang hold to give you the ultimate challenge while climbing.

The Station's regular features are just the beginning of what it is capable of. With Problem Solver accessories, your on-the-go exercise sessions can become truly varied and dynamic.

The Problemsolver's (2mm, 3mm, 4mm & 5mm) inserts work seamlessly with the four-finger pockets to give you an array of fourteen distinct edge sizes. Furthermore, there are two additional rungs (12m and 16m) that can be utilized to extend the edges even further!

An extraordinary addition is the 8cm and 10cm half dome attachments, which provide an opportunity to cultivate pinch and sloper grip techniques - a rare feature among portable hangboards.

Pros:

• Maximum versatility with three different sizes of edges for 4-finger pockets, two-finger pocket holds and arm hang hold.

• Problem Solver accessories enable a varied and dynamic range of exercises.

• Inserts ranging from 2mm to 5mm provide 14 distinct edge sizes.

• 8cm and 10cm half dome attachments for pinch and sloper grip techniques.

Cons:

  • Price is relatively high compared to other hangboards.
  • Limited training features compared to other boards in its price range.
  • Not ideal for hot environments due to wooden grips.

6. Stubai Kraxlboard Rock

Whether you're looking for a wooden fingerboard to use as climbing training, the Kraxlboard is sure to exceed your expectations with its variety and versatility.

Choosing the right edge size can be a perplexing task given that there are 26 edges in total, ranging from mono to 2-finger and 4-finger pockets.

One of the most remarkable features on this board is its unique negative-sloping edges in the bottom layer. Additionally, there are two jugs and slopers with a 35° and 22.5° angle respectively to add further challenge! All these components make it my favorite wood hangboard out there.

Not only does Stubai provide plenty of training variety and progression, they went a step further by adding two 80mm slopers to the bottom for honing pinch grips. This creates an awesome tool for many climbers looking to take their hangboard routine seriously and turn it into real results.

Pros:

• Maximum versatility with 26 edges in total, ranging from mono to 2-finger and 4-finger pockets.

• Unique negative-sloping edges for added challenge and difficulty.

• Two jugs and slopers with a 35° and 22.5° angle respectively.

• Two 80mm slopers for honing pinch grips.

Cons:

  • Price is relatively high compared to other hangboards.
  • Not ideal for hot environments due to wooden grips.
  • Limited training plan features compared to other boards in its price range.
  • Can be difficult to set up and take down due to size and weight.

7. YY Vertical Triangle

If you're a traveler or outdoor climber, the Triangle can be your go-to hangboard for all of your climbing needs. It's small size makes it convenient to take with you wherever life takes you! While its primary purpose is training, similar to the Metolius Rock Rings, these tools also provide plenty of variety in grip types and exercises.

The Triangle offers 4 distinct edge sizes (25mm, 20mm, 15mm and monos) plus a top jug that can offer an array of training progression and warm-up options in such a small package.

This travel fingerboard stands out from the standard due to its petite size. Each triangle measures a mere 12cm x 12cm and weighs only 260g, making it so effortless to pack away in your climbing bag or backpack!

Aside from being environmentally friendly, these training grips are made from recycled rubber wood which is kind to your skin - making for comfortable and effective workouts compared to the resin of Rock Rings.

If climbers are looking to switch things up, the YY Vertial Triangle is perfect for them. It sports a similar design as the triangle but with seven different edges and grip types, making it an ideal upgrade choice.

Pros:

• Maximum versatility with four distinct edge sizes (25mm, 20mm, 15mm and monos) plus a top jug.

• Ideal for climbers who are always on the go due to its small size - measuring 12cm x 12cm and weighing only 260g.

• Environmentally friendly, made from recycled rubber wood which is kind to your skin.

• The YV Vertical Triangle offers seven different edges and grip types, making it a great upgrade choice.

Cons:

  • Price is relatively high compared to other hangboards.
  • Not ideal for hot environments due to wooden grips.
  • Limited training features compared to other boards in its price range.
  • Can be difficult to set up and take down due to size and weight.

How Do You Use a Wooden Hangboard?

To use a wooden hangboard, you'll need to attach it securely to a sturdy structure, such as a wall or a door frame, using screws or mounting brackets. Once the hangboard is securely in place, you can begin training by hanging from the different edges for a set amount of time or number of repetitions.

It's important to warm up thoroughly before beginning your hangboard workout, as hanging from the edges can put a lot of strain on your fingers, hands, and forearms. You may want to do some light cardio, stretching, or finger exercises before beginning your hangboard workout.

When using a wooden hangboard, it's important to choose edges that challenge you without causing pain or injury. It's also important to progress gradually, starting with easier edges and building up to more difficult ones as your strength and endurance improve.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Wooden Hangboard?

Wooden hangboards are a popular training tool among rock climbers for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the potential benefits of incorporating wooden hangboard training into your climbing regimen:

  • Improved finger strength and endurance: Hanging from the edges on a wooden hangboard can help you develop stronger, more resilient fingers and forearms, which can improve your ability to grip and hold onto small or awkwardly shaped holds on the rock.
  • Targeted training for specific types of holds: Wooden hangboards typically feature a variety of different edges, including crimps, pockets, slopers, and jugs. This allows you to train for specific types of holds that you may encounter on a climbing route, and to focus on your weaknesses.
  • Convenience and flexibility: With a wooden hangboard, you can train your finger strength and endurance at home or at the gym, without needing to climb outdoors or visit a climbing gym. This can be particularly useful if you live in an area without easy access to climbing or if you have a busy schedule that makes it difficult to visit a gym regularly.
  • Customization: Wooden hangboards can be customized to suit your climbing specific training needs and preferences. You can choose different edge sizes and shapes, add or remove training elements, and even build your own hangboard from scratch if you have the necessary woodworking skills.

What Are The Drawbacks of Using a Wooden Hangboard?

While wooden hangboards can be a useful training tool for rock climbers, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

  • Risk of injury: Hanging from the edges on a wooden hangboard can put a lot of strain on your fingers, hands, and forearms, which can increase your risk of injury if you don't warm up properly, use proper technique, or progress gradually. It's important to listen to your body and rest if you experience pain or discomfort.
  • Limited training stimulus: While wooden hangboards can help you develop stronger fingers and forearms, they may not provide a complete training stimulus for other aspects of climbing, such as technique, power, or endurance. It's important to incorporate a variety of training methods into your climbing regimen to develop well -rounded climbing skills.
  • Over-reliance on hangboard training: Some climbers may become overly reliant on hangboard training and neglect other important aspects of their training, such as climbing outdoors, working on technique, or cross-training for overall fitness. It's important to use hangboard training as part of a balanced training regimen, rather than relying on it as the sole method of improving your climbing abilities.

These 'drawbacks' are of course not unique to wooden hangboards, as any hangboard will feature these same drawbacks, perhaps even more.

That said, wooden hangboards typically provide an adequate training stimulus and can be relatively safe and effective when used responsibly. When in doubt, always consult a climbing instructor or coach to ensure that you're using the proper technique and progressing safely.

Final Words

In summary, wooden hangboards can be a useful training tool for rock climbers looking to improve their finger strength and endurance. However, it's important to use them safely and effectively, warm up thoroughly, progress gradually, and incorporate other training methods to develop well-rounded climbing skills.

With proper use, a wooden hangboard can be a valuable addition to your climbing training regimen.

Wooden Hangboards FAQ's

Is it safe to use a wooden hangboard?

Using a wooden hangboard can be safe if done correctly and with proper technique. It is important to start with easier holds and gradually increase the difficulty of your workouts over time. Additionally, be sure to warm up properly before training, and take adequate rest days to allow your fingers to recover.

Can wooden hangboards be used for beginner climbers?

Yes, wooden hangboards can be used by climbers of all skill levels, including beginner and intermediate climbers. However, it is important to start with easier holds and gradually increase the difficulty of your workouts over time, as mentioned above. Additionally, if you are new to climbing or hangboard training, it may be beneficial to seek the guidance of a certified climbing coach or trainer.

How often should I train on a wooden hangboard?

The frequency of your hangboard training will depend on your individual climbing goals and fitness level. However, it is generally recommended to start with 1-2 training sessions per week, with adequate rest days in between to allow your fingers to recover.

Can wooden hangboards cause finger injuries?

If used improperly or with excessive intensity, wooden hangboards can potentially lead to finger injuries, such as strains or sprains. It is important to start with easier holds and gradually increase the difficulty of your workouts over time. Additionally, be sure to warm up properly before training, and take adequate rest days to allow your fingers to recover.

Can wooden hangboards be used for outdoor climbing training?

Yes, wooden hangboards can be a valuable tool for outdoor climbing training, as they can help build finger strength and endurance in a controlled indoor environment. However, it is important to also practice climbing on real rock and incorporate other forms of training, such as campus board or bouldering workouts, into your training regimen.

How do I care for and maintain my wooden hangboard?

To care for your wooden hangboard, it is important to keep it clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to excessive moisture or sunlight, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack. Additionally, periodically sanding the surface of the hangboard can help maintain its texture and grip.

Can I make my own wooden hangboard?

Yes, it is possible to make your own wooden hangboard if you have the necessary tools and woodworking skills. However, if you are not experienced in woodworking, it is generally recommended to purchase a hangboard from a reputable manufacturer to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

How long should I hang on a wooden hangboard?

The length of time you should hang on a wooden hangboard will depend on your individual fitness level and training goals. However, it is generally recommended to start with shorter hang times, such as 5-10 seconds, and gradually increase the duration over time as your finger strength improves.

Can wooden hangboards be used for training other parts of the body?

While wooden hangboards are primarily designed for training finger strength and endurance, they can also be used for training other parts of the body, such as the forearms and upper body. For example, you can incorporate pull-up or chin-up variations using the hangboard's larger holds.

Are there any downsides to using a wooden hangboard?

While wooden hangboards can be a valuable training tool for rock climbers, there are also some potential downsides to using them. Excessive or improper use can potentially lead to finger injuries, and some experienced climbers may find that their skin becomes irritated or damaged from the texture of the wood. Additionally, wooden hangboards are generally more expensive than other types of hangboards, such as plastic or resin models.

Can wooden hangboards be used for rehabilitating finger injuries?

Wooden hangboards can potentially be used for rehabilitating finger injuries, but it is important to seek the guidance of a certified healthcare professional or physical therapist. Rehabilitating an injury requires a careful and individualized approach, and improper use of a hangboard could potentially exacerbate the injury.

How do I progress my training on a wooden hangboard?

To progress your training on a wooden hangboard, gradually increase the difficulty of your workouts over time by using smaller or more difficult holds, increasing the duration of your hangs, or incorporating additional training features, such as adjustable angles. Additionally, be sure to track your progress and periodically reassess your training goals to ensure that you are making steady and sustainable progress.

Should I use chalk when training on a wooden hangboard?

Using chalk when training on a wooden hangboard can help improve your grip and prevent slipping, but it is not necessary for everyone. Some climbers may find that their skin is more sensitive to the texture of the wood and prefer to train without chalk.

How do I choose the right size of wooden hangboard?

The size of the wooden hangboard you choose will depend on your individual training goals and the space you have available. If you are just starting out, a smaller hangboard with larger holds may be more suitable. However, if you're more of an advanced climber and looking to train specific finger positions, a larger hangboard with smaller holds may be more appropriate.

Can wooden hangboards be used by climbers of all skill levels?

Yes, wooden hangboards can be used by climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. However, it is important to start with easier holds and gradually progress to more challenging workouts as your finger strength and endurance improves.

Can wooden hangboards be used for warming up before climbing?

While wooden hangboards are primarily designed for training finger strength and endurance, they can also be used for warming up before climbing. For example, you can perform a few sets of easy hangs to increase blood flow to your fingers and prepare your body for climbing.

How do I know if I'm using a wooden hangboard safely and effectively?

To ensure that you are using a wooden hangboard safely and effectively, it is important to start with easier holds and gradually progress to more challenging workouts as your finger strength improves. Additionally, be sure to warm up properly before training, take adequate rest days to allow your fingers to recover, and seek the guidance of a certified climbing coach or trainer if you have any questions or concerns.

How do I incorporate a wooden hangboard into my training routine?

To incorporate a wooden hangboard into your training routine, it is important to start with a structured program that includes a variety of workouts and rest days. For example, you can begin with a few easy hangs and gradually progress to more challenging workouts over several weeks or months. Additionally, be sure to track your progress and periodically reassess your training goals to ensure that you are making steady and sustainable progress.

Can wooden hangboards be used for training grip strength for other sports?

While wooden hangboards are primarily designed for rock climbing training, they can also be used for training grip strength for other sports, such as weightlifting or martial arts. However, it is important to adjust your workouts to focus on the specific grip strength requirements of your sport.

Can I mount a wooden hangboard on a door frame?

Yes, it is possible to mount a wooden hangboard on a door frame using specialized mounts or brackets. However, it is important to ensure that the door frame is sturdy and can support your weight before attempting to use a hangboard in this manner.

How do I prevent overtraining when using a wooden hangboard?

To prevent overtraining when using a wooden hangboard, it is important to incorporate adequate rest days into your training routine and avoid training to failure or beyond your fitness level. Additionally, be sure to listen to your body and adjust your workouts as needed to prevent injury and promote recovery.

How do I know if a wooden hangboard is right for me?

Determining if a wooden hangboard is right for you will depend on your individual training goals and preferences. If you are looking to build finger strength and endurance for rock climbing, a wooden hangboard may be a valuable training tool. However, if you have a history of finger injuries or prefer to train using other methods, a different type of hangboard

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