The Climbing Zine

Subcribe and Score a free copy of Volume 25

Luke — Thu, 21 May 2026 07:14:15 +0000

We just posted a sale to subscribe to The Zine, and also score a free copy of 25 when you subscribe, good for the next 100 subscribers! New subs currently start with Volume 26. Shop the sub sale.

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What Makes Someone a “Professional” Climber? by Devin Dabney

Luke — Mon, 18 May 2026 19:03:39 +0000

Note: This piece is published in Volume 26, now available Banner photo of the author by Nikki Smith The question of what defines a professional climber is more than an intellectual exercise. I truly believe that question, and its answer, holds the future of climbing. To remain sustainable, our sport has several challenges ahead, many of which stem from how difficult it is to understand…

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Get Sends or Die Tryin’ by Devin Dabney

Luke — Mon, 18 May 2026 07:08:39 +0000

The distinction between a “climber” and “someone who climbs” has always fascinated me; it’s a nuance I’ve observed throughout a decade of routesetting, teaching, and exploring anyplace I could find rock. These observations started small, with friends who found the sport around the same time I did. Gradually, one by one, they stopped telling people, “I rock climb,” instead saying, “I’m a climber.”…

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Friendship Is The First Belay by Luke Mehall

Luke — Fri, 15 May 2026 11:31:08 +0000

When life looks like Easy Street There is danger at your door —Grateful Dead, “Uncle John’s Band” I’m sitting here writing on a cold October morning in El Potrero Chico; yesterday seemed to be summer, and today old man winter showed up. It’s the type of weather, combined with all the war and sadness in the world, that makes me want to listen to Bob Dylan and just sit with it all. Note…

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Seeking a Belaytionship by Lindzi Platt

Luke — Wed, 13 May 2026 20:04:18 +0000

Out and about, I’m looking good, A fine boy in my neighborhood. Note: this poem is published in Volume 26, now available He checks me out, Says with a smile, “Hey, let’s get drinks and talk a while.” But skies are clear And temps sublime— So sorry, guy, I’ve gotta climb. Get to the crag, These boys have ropes. So you would think a girl’d have hope. …

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The Dark Wizard Whisperer with Jim Hurst

Luke — Sun, 10 May 2026 23:37:44 +0000

Luke chats with Jim Hurst, a dear friend of Dean Potter’s, from the new Dark Wizard film. Our sponsors for this episode: Patagonia: Check out the new Big Wall Kit Kilter: https://settercloset.com/ Use code “zine” at checkout for a discount on your Kilter board. Osprey: https://www.osprey.com/ Shop Climbing Zine: Subscribe to The Climbing Zine/ score Dirtbag State of Mind…

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The Mom Crux by Mallory Logan

Luke — Sun, 10 May 2026 07:11:00 +0000

Many a metaphoric parallel can be drawn between climbing and motherhood, and it’s plain to see neither activity makes the other any easier. by Mallory Logan, originally published in The Climbing Zine, Volume 6 (out of print) Countless others who have already made the journey will offer their beta and guidance in kindhearted earnest, but in the moment of truth there is only you.

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Where to Find The Climbing Zine + Dirtbag State of Mind clothes/stickers – Retailers

Luke — Fri, 08 May 2026 07:09:48 +0000

We pride ourselves on independent distribution. Below is a list of our beloved retailers where you can find our zines, books, and merchandise. Don’t see your favorite shop/bookstore/gym on this list? Give us an email at luke@climbingzine.com or check out our online store. (Banner photo by Jake Burchmore) Arizona: Bright Side Bookshop (Flagstaff) California Bear Valley Outfitters (Big…

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Staying Hungry on the Salathe by Brittany Goris (Full Story)

Luke — Fri, 08 May 2026 07:08:00 +0000

“Keep dreamin’, stay hungry, and remember that there is no finish line.” This quote by Todd Skinner in the opening pages of the book Hangdog Days by Jeff Smoot gave me chills the first time I read it. In the pages that followed, I felt history come to life as I read tale after tale about what I had always imagined climbing to be at its very best: an epic adventure full of impossible dreams…

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An Invitation from the International Climbers’ Croquet Club

Luke — Sun, 03 May 2026 14:05:28 +0000

by D. Scott Borden, International Climbers’ Croquet Club Member (photos from the author’s collection) In a very jolly mood, we skipped our way up to the start of Fine Jade, reaching the base moments before another party. They took one look at our backpacks and left. The rack was heavy and bursting out of it, among the many cams, were battered croquet mallets, faded balls and bent wickets.

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