Bouldering is a branch of climbing that is becoming increasingly popular. Simply put it is climbing, whether outdoors or indoors, without the support of ropes or harnesses. Bouldering is said to have many health benefits. Physically it improves core strength and uses many of the body’s muscles. Mentally, it is said to help concentration and problem-solving. Participants will climb a boulder, rather than a rock face, or a wall up to a height of around 4 meters, around thirteen feet. Bouldering Crash Pads are layers of foam placed beneath the climber to lessen the impact should the climber fall.
There are many foam bouldering crash pads on the market, and as you can imagine they take a pounding. Rather than buy new it is easy to replace the foam and buying from a foam specialist like F.C. Hancox, means the climber can custom build the crash pad to their own specification.
Most bouldering crash pads are enclosed in an outer shield. These generally unzip and it’s a simple task to measure the foam and buy a replacement piece. Crash pads can be made of different foams to achieve various outcomes for a fall. For example, a sturdy foam might be preferred for higher falls. Additionally, crash pads can be made up of a mix of open and closed cell foams. If you are looking to replace the foam in your crash pad and it is mixed layers, this is no problem for F.C. Hancox as we can laminate – stick together, different pieces of foam. Having the foam pieces laminated makes it easier to push the new foam into your cover.
You may be looking to have a completely bespoke bouldering crash pad because you need a different size from the ones that are generally available. There are websites that explain how to make a crash pad from scratch, but this is some heavy sewing, and you would need to have those skills or know someone who does. Bespoke sizes are no problem for us, in fact, it’s what we do! Whether you are replacing existing foam, or buying a tailored size, it’s simple to use our foam-cut-to-size service. If you are buying layers of different foams, then ensure these are measured correctly. On the online form, you will be able to state whether you wish the foams to be laminated.
A popular choice for this application is our CMB6 or CMB8 Chip foams, these are widely used in soft play and bouncy castle crash mats too – why not order some foam samples to check you make the right choice.
Some layered bouldering crash pads are covered in plastic. When ordering, you can add polyester wrap and stockinette. This will help to insert the foam snugly into the shield.
Whether you are replacing the foam in your bouldering crash pad or creating one tailored to your needs, F.C. Hancox can help with choosing the best foam. If you are unsure of what foam was used originally, again get in touch with our staff who may be able to tell from a picture or arrange for you to send a cut-off sample. Having the perfect bouldering crash pad for you is a great way to keep safe whilst enjoying this thrilling climbing activity and F.C. Hancox is here to help.
Disclaimer – F.C. Hancox Upholstery Supplies Ltd will not be held liable or responsible for any injuries caused by falling on the foam ordered for bespoke crash pads. All foams will only soften the fall, not completely eliminate the risk of injury.
