Metolius Super Chalk Review
In the world of climbing, the right chalk can make a world of difference. If you’re an avid climber, you know that sweaty palms can be the difference between conquering a challenging route and slipping off the holds. One brand that has been gaining attention in the climbing community is Metolius Super Chalk. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this chalk stand out and whether it’s truly the best bang for your buck.
The Basics
Metolius Super Chalk is an affordable and safe loose chalk that delivers good performance. It’s designed to enhance your grip and keep your hands dry during climbs, both indoors and outdoors. Unlike some other chalks, Metolius Super Chalk contains only the highest quality magnesium carbonate without any additives like drying agents, making it suitable even for those with sensitive skin.
Grip
When it comes to climbing chalk, grip is everything. Metolius Super Chalk scores a respectable 7.5 out of 10 in this department. While this may seem lower compared to some premium brands, it’s important to consider the price difference. Chalks like Black Diamond White Gold or Friction Labs Gorilla Grip may offer slightly better initial grip and feel, but they can cost up to four times as much as Metolius Super Chalk. For most climbers, the performance gain doesn’t justify the higher price tag. Super Chalk’s fine, low-friction texture is prone to caking, but it’s still a solid choice for climbers of all levels.
Coverage
Metolius Super Chalk offers good coverage, allowing you to evenly coat your hands. It’s comparable to Black Diamond White Gold in this aspect. However, Super Chalk can cake up if applied excessively due to its fine consistency. To avoid this, it’s best to apply it using a sock or chalk ball. During our testing, we found that the chalk remained relatively consistent without too many chunky bits.
Staying Power
Despite its low price, Metolius Super Chalk impressively keeps your hands dry for a good period. This is achieved without the use of drying agents, making it a suitable option for climbers concerned about skin reactions. While premium chalks like Black Diamond with patented Upsalite offer slightly better grip, the cost-benefit ratio is significantly in favor of Super Chalk. It may not last as long as the best liquid chalks, but it performs admirably in this category.
Skin Friendliness
Some climbing chalks use additives to prevent sweaty hands by absorbing more moisture, which can also draw moisture from your skin. Metolius Super Chalk, however, contains only 100% magnesium carbonate, making it suitable for climbers with skin allergies. Its skin-friendly formula ensures that you can focus on your climb without worrying about skin issues.
Mess
Chalking up with loose chalk can be a messy affair, but Super Chalk’s packaging is designed to minimize the mess. While it’s not ideal for resealing once opened, using a dedicated sock or ball can help keep things tidy. The mesh in the packaging ensures a fine, even application, reducing mess and waste.
Value
Where Metolius Super Chalk truly shines is in terms of value. Comparable products from Friction Labs and Black Diamond can cost double to quadruple the price, yet they don’t offer double the performance. Super Chalk provides an excellent balance of quality and affordability, making it a smart choice for regular indoor or outdoor climbing sessions. With thousands of positive reviews online, it’s clear that many climbers trust and rely on this product.
Ingredients
Metolius Super Chalk is composed of 100% magnesium carbonate, an inorganic compound safe for humans. It’s used in various applications, including food additives, makeup, toothpaste, and antacid medication. However, inhalation of large quantities can be problematic for individuals with lung conditions or allergies. Always store chalk out of reach of children and handle it with care.
Who is Super Chalk for?
Super Chalk is an excellent choice for climbers looking for quality chalk at an affordable price. Even experienced climbers struggle to discern significant differences between Super Chalk and pricier brands. It’s a safe purchase for both beginners and seasoned climbers, providing reliable grip and moisture absorption. If you’re climbing in warm conditions or dealing with sweaty palms, you’ll appreciate Super Chalk’s effectiveness.
Conclusion
Metolius Super Chalk is a solid performer that won’t break the bank. Its balance of affordability, quality, and skin-friendliness makes it a top choice for many climbers. While there are premium options with slightly better grip and longevity, Super Chalk holds its own in most climbing scenarios. If you’re looking for a dependable climbing chalk that won’t empty your wallet, give Metolius Super Chalk a try.
FAQs
- Is Metolius Super Chalk suitable for beginners? Yes, Super Chalk is suitable for climbers of all levels, including beginners.
- How does Metolius Super Chalk compare to premium brands like Black Diamond? While premium brands may offer slightly better performance, the cost of Super Chalk is significantly lower, making it a great value.
- Is Super Chalk messy to use? Like all loose chalks, it can be messy, but proper application techniques can minimize the mess.
- Can individuals with skin allergies use Metolius Super Chalk? Yes, it’s safe for climbers with skin allergies due to its 100% magnesium carbonate formula.
- Does Metolius Super Chalk come with any accessories for application? Metolius sells a refillable chalk sock that pairs well with Super Chalk for optimal application and minimal mess.
