Anchors

Anchors are an essential part of rock climbing and foundational to the sport. Anchors are secure points attached to a rock that a climber uses to attach their rope to, that will safely hold their weight in the event of a fall, and allow them to ascend and descend the rock face with greater ease. Learning how to safely and securely install and use anchors is a vital skill for all climbers, as an anchor system is only as strong as its weakest link. 

What is Anchoring?

The use of anchors in climbing can be categorized into two separate and distinct types of anchors. These two types are designed to be used in different situations, and each has its own method for installation and use. The two basic types of anchors used in rock climbing are:

• Fixed Anchors: Fixed anchors are permanent anchors that are preinstalled into the rock, and have been professionally tested and rated to meet climbing safety standards. Fixed anchors are typically found along established climbing routes, and their use is typically limited to climbing gyms and highly trafficked climbing areas. Examples of fixed anchors include bolts, pitons, and hangers. 
• Natural Anchors: A natural anchor is any part of the natural rock formation that climbers can use to attach their rope to for safety. Natural anchors are not placed or installed by humans, and they are not permanently fixed to the rock. Natural anchors can include cracks in the rock, solid rock features, or even large trees and boulders. The security of a natural anchor is determined by the strength of the anchor, the quality of the rock it is attached to, and how securely it is attached to the rope. 

Why Learn Anchoring?

Anchors are an important part of rock climbing as they can be used for various purposes, such as: