Outdoor Bouldering: A Matter of “Adaptation” | Matteo Arnodo

I’d like to share some reflections starting from the topics discussed in BrazzTalk #1, a conversation that focuses on a transition as natural as it is delicate: the one from indoor bouldering to the outdoor environment.

I increasingly believe that this transition should be approached with the highest possible awareness, to avoid problems for the natural and cultural ecosystem that hosts our discipline. Adaptation is, in my opinion, one of the key aspects to focus on when considering the difference between the outdoor context and the indoor climbing gym.

Indoors, adaptation is mostly about physical and mental growth — improving our abilities to reach goals and test ourselves, often in a competitive dynamic, both with ourselves and with others.

The gym is not only about performance: it’s also about fun, fitness, and social connection. It’s a place where people approach climbing with lightness. I don’t use that word critically — lightness and playfulness can be precious resources, tools for self-discovery and for living sport in a healthy and personal way. What makes climbing the most beautiful sport in the world is precisely its ability to offer something to everyone. In other words, I believe that anyone can find their own way to express themselves through climbing.

However, when this approach moves from the gym to nature, the culture changes — and so do the rules of behavior, in relation to a new context.

In nature, adaptation can no longer be one-directional. It’s no longer just about improving oneself to perform better; rather, it’s about modulating our actions according to the environment. When we consider what surrounds us, it’s important to recognize which attitudes are invasive or damaging, and which can be acts of care and preservation. Too often, instead, we see people trying to bend the environment to their own needs — as if indoor habits could simply be replicated outside without consequences.

I don’t want to demonize any behavior — I know there are nuances and exceptions depending on specific contexts — but sometimes exaggerating helps to make a point clearer.

I’m thinking of covering boulders with tarps to keep them dry from rain. Or leaving crashpads in the woods to avoid carrying them back and forth. Or using aggressive tools to dry holds or change environmental conditions. In some cases, even permanently altering a landing zone to make it safer…

These are examples that always make me reflect, because in most cases, invasive human actions toward nature can’t be justified by an occasional athletic performance. I’m exaggerating to express my personal way of living bouldering:

If I don’t have the ability to climb a boulder, I won’t dig a hold to make it possible. If I find a wet hold, I won’t try to dry it using harsh tools — I’ll look for another dry boulder. I accept what the rock offers me and adapt to it, not the other way around.

Finally, I think that adaptation and acceptance of the context and its conditions are essential to enrich ourselves as climbers. Understanding the difference between sport (and its focus on performance) and outdoor activity is fundamental.

I hope this short reflection on our approach to bouldering can be a spark for discussion.

What do you think? Let’s talk about it in the comments.