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Bouldering Crash Pads, Which One is Right for You?Bouldering is dangerous. Boulders climb anywhere from 10-20 feet off the ground with nope rope or belay. Your protection lies with your 'spotters'(climbing partners) and a good bouldering crash pad. What is a bouldering pad? A bouldering pad resembles a small mattress and are normally 2-4 feet wide, 3-6 feet long and about 3-5 inches thick. Bouldering pads are placed on the ground below the climber to provide safety in case of a fall. One of my favorite things about crash pads is that they can double for a sleeping pad. Although most companies don't recommend you sleep on them. What are they going to cost? You will want to plan on spending anywhere from $100 to $300 for a new bouldering crash pad. The prices of crash pads are based on size, durability, and quality of the pad. Things to look for in a bouldering crash pad. A crash pad that can be folded in half for easy carrying. Make sure it has either a handle (for suitcase style carrying) or padded shoulder straps (to carry it like a backpack). You want a pad that is well made, has good foam, and can give you a soft landing. Now if the bouldering pad comes with a tiny carpet to clean your shoes before a climb that is a plus. Our picks The incredibly well padded Black Diamond Mondo Crash Pad has become on of the most popular choices for protecting the tallest, scariest, highball boulder problems around.
Read my full review of the BD Mondo Pad
This bouldering pad absorbs energy and spreads out force with its dual-density foam. Suitcase style carrying handle and also comes with a great little pouch.
Read my full review of the Metolius Fat Bastard
The Black Diamond Drop Zone Crash Pad uses a one-piece, taco-style folding pad to eliminate gaps in the padding when you lay it out over your landing.
Read my full review of the BD Drop Zone Crash Pad
Metolius Cheap Bastard Crash Pad This is a good pad that is pretty cheap. Has high quality dual-density foam that absorbs energy and spreads out force of falls. The buckles are definitely bulletproof. It has two shoulder straps that are padded and a waist buckle.
Read my full review of the Metolius Cheap Bastard Crash Pad
One of our favorites the Mad Pad is 5 inches thick. It allows firm but comfortable drops. Has two shoulder straps which make it easy to carry. The buckle straps allow you to convert this baby into a lounge chair, great for by the camp fire at night. Comes with a carpet for shoe cleaning.
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