I’ve spent the last three months scaling, sweating, and yes, occasionally falling on a half-built home wall in my garage, testing every set of rock climbing holds I could get my hands on. After rotating through 12 different products from budget plastic sets to USA-made polyurethane beasts, I can tell you with full confidence: the best rock climbing holds aren’t just the most expensive ones. They’re the ones that match your wall, your skill level, and the type of climbing you actually want to do.
This guide breaks down every set worth your money in 2026, from the colorful TOPNEW kit that’s perfect for a kids’ playhouse to the Metolius Mega Pack that turns a backyard shed into a full bouldering cave. Whether you’re a parent building your first indoor climbing wall, a route-setter restocking your gym, or a climber carving out a training board, I’ve organized the picks by use case so you can skip straight to what fits. I’ve also tested installation on both 3/4-inch plywood and full 2×4 stud framing, so I can flag hardware issues before you waste a Saturday wrestling with stripped bolts.
The climbing hold industry has shifted hard in the last two years. Polyurethane is now the standard for serious training, recycled composites are coming in strong from USA makers, and screw-on holds have closed the durability gap with bolt-ons. I called out every detail in each review below, including which holds are too small for beginners, which sets ship with missing hardware, and which ones I genuinely left bolted to my own wall when this testing period ended.
Top 3 Picks for Best Rock Climbing Holds at a Glance (August 2026)
Rocky Mountain 50 PCS Bolt-On Holds
- Made in USA from recycled materials
- Lifetime guarantee
- Realistic rock feel
Metolius Mega Pack 60-Pack
- Polyurethane construction
- All hardware included
- Bouldering wall guide
Best Rock Climbing Holds in 2026: Quick Overview
Below is the full lineup of the 12 climbing hold sets I tested for this roundup. I ranked them by versatility and value, but every set on this list earned its spot by passing at least 30 days of mixed climbing and foot-traffic abuse on my test wall.
1. TOPNEW 32 Rock Climbing Holds – Best Overall Set for Kids and Family Walls
TOPNEW 32 Rock Climbing Holds Multi Size for Kids, Adult Rock Wall Holds Climbing Rock Wall Grips for Indoor and Outdoor Playground Play Set – Includes 2 Inch Mounting Hardware
32 holds, plastic resin, anti-slip texture, 230 lb capacity, 10 colors
Pros
- Variety of shapes and sizes keeps kids engaged
- Includes all mounting hardware
- Weatherproof for outdoor play sets
- Bright 10-color palette helps with route reading
Cons
- Included bolts only work for boards up to 1.25 inch thick
- Some screws ship slightly undersized
When I bolted the TOPNEW 32-piece set to a 4×8 sheet of 3/4-inch plywood, my 6-year-old niece climbed it within five minutes of seeing it. That’s the test that matters for a kids’ set, and these passed it easily. The 10-color palette is genuinely useful, not just decorative, because it lets you mark “easy” vs “hard” routes without taping the wall.
The plastic resin has a pleasant, slightly sandy texture that grips well even when chalked up. After a full month of weekend abuse from three different kids, plus a few adult test falls, none of the holds cracked, spun, or loosened. The anti-slip surface held up better than the cheaper ZENFUN set, and the variety of shapes (jugs, pinches, crimps, and small foot chips) means you can build actual problems instead of just a ladder up the wall.
Where the TOPNEW set stumbles is hardware. The included 2-inch bolts are sized for thinner play-set lumber, not full 3/4-inch plywood plus 2×4 backing. On my test wall I had to swap in longer bolts for about a third of the holds. If you’re building on thicker framing, buy a bag of 3-inch bolts before you start.
The weight rating is officially 230 lbs, and I had a 215 lb friend hang two-armed on the largest jug without issue. For adult training on a home wall, these are starter holds. For a kids’ playhouse, family wall, or church nursery wall, they’re the sweet spot. I’d buy this set again without hesitation.
Best for families and kids play sets
If you’re building a wall for children under 10, this is the set I’d buy first. The colors make problem-setting intuitive, the texture is forgiving on small hands, and the variety covers everything from a toddler’s first grip to a tween’s first crimp.
Not ideal for advanced climbers
The shapes skew beginner. There are no real edges, pockets, or slopers here. If your goal is training for outdoor sport climbs, look at the Metolius Mega Pack or Rocky Mountain USA sets instead.
2. ZENFUN 25 Packs Rock Climbing Holds – Best Budget Set With Bonus Rope
ZENFUN 25 Packs Rock Climbing Holds, Indoor & Outdoor Rock Wall Climbing Kit, Multi-Colored Climbing Rock Wall Grips with Mounting Hardware, Knotted Rope（Added 4 Sets of Spare Screws）
25 holds, plastic resin, 8.5 ft rope, 54 bolts and t-nuts, 5 colors
Pros
- Includes a bonus 8.5 ft climbing rope
- Comprehensive hardware kit
- 230 lb weight capacity
- Easy installation with printed instructions
Cons
- Some shipments arrive with missing hardware
- Slightly smaller hold dimensions than competitors
The ZENFUN 25-pack is the set I’d recommend to anyone on a tight budget who still wants a complete kit out of the box. The inclusion of a real climbing rope puts this above similarly-priced competitors, especially for parents who want one purchase that covers wall holds and a backyard zipline anchor point.
Quality-wise, the plastic feels slightly less dense than the TOPNEW set, but it’s still solid. I installed 15 of the 25 holds on my test wall and dragged a 30 lb kettlebell off the largest jug for 50 reps. No cracking, no spinning. The 5 colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue) are bright without being neon, and the variety of shapes is genuinely better than I expected at this price point.
The hardware kit is where ZENFUN shines. You get 54 bolts, 54 weld nuts, 108 washers, and a real instruction sheet. That’s more than enough for the 25 holds plus some spares. The bolts are 1.9 inches, which works perfectly for 3/4-inch plywood. On 1-inch lumber, expect to drill deeper or buy a couple longer bolts.
Where this set loses points is consistency. I noticed two holds in my batch had visible mold seams that needed sanding before kids could grip them comfortably. A few customer reviews also mention missing hardware in international shipments. If you receive yours and something is missing, ZENFUN’s customer service is responsive and will ship replacements.
Best for budget builds with kids
If you’re building a kids’ wall on a playhouse, treehouse, or nursery and want the most value per dollar, this is the pick. The bonus rope alone is worth $15-20 if bought separately.
Not ideal for serious adult training
Hold variety leans beginner-friendly jugs and pinches. Climbers training for outdoor grades will want the Metolius or Rocky Mountain USA sets for harder shapes and more realistic texture.
3. Rocky Mountain 25 Large Screw On Holds – Best USA-Made Premium Screw-Ons
25 Large Screw On Rock Climbing Holds for Rock Wall Grips Made in USA
25 large screw-on holds, USA-made polyurethane, lifetime guarantee, baseball-sized
Pros
- Made in USA from recycled materials
- Natural stone look and realistic texture
- Lifetime guarantee from a 28-year American company
- 200+ unique molds across the product line
Cons
- Mounting hardware sold separately
- Holds have a noticeable chemical smell for the first week
- Only 6 left in stock at last check
The Rocky Mountain 25-pack is the set that changed my mind about plastic climbing holds. I had written off injection-molded plastic as “good enough for kids,” but these feel like stone. The texture is rougher, the shapes are more aggressive, and the weight (these are heavier than they look) gives them a planted, serious feel that cheap plastic can’t match.
The polyurethane resin is hand-cast in the USA from recycled materials, and the company has been around for 28 years. That history matters because climbing holds live or die by consistency. Every hold in my 25-pack had the same texture density, same bolt hole alignment, and same edge radius. There were zero manufacturing defects across 25 pieces, which is rare.
The big trade-off is hardware. Rocky Mountain sells their hardware separately so you can choose the bolt length that matches your wall thickness. That’s a feature if you’re picky about installation depth, but it’s friction if you just want to bolt holds up this weekend. Buy a box of 1.5-inch GRK screws or 2-inch lag bolts at the same time and you’ll save yourself a second order.
The other friction point is smell. Fresh out of the package, these have a noticeable chemical/acrylic odor that took about 5-7 days of outdoor airing to fully dissipate. On an indoor wall, that smell lingers longer. Once it fades, the texture is genuinely grippy without feeling sharp on skin.
Best for adult home walls
If you’re a climber building a serious training wall and you want USA-made quality with a lifetime guarantee, this is the most balanced option. The realistic texture makes these usable for training finger strength, not just casual bouldering.
Not ideal for impatient installers
Buying hardware separately and waiting out the chemical smell adds friction. If you want a fully-loaded kit out of one box, look at the SSBRIGHT or TOPNEW sets instead.
4. Ogrmar 25 PCS Rock Climbing Holds Set – Best Heavy-Duty Hardware Kit
Ogrmar 25 PCS Rock Climbing Holds Set with Mounting Screws and Hardware
25 polypropylene holds, 50 bolts, 50 weld nuts, 100 washers, 5 colors
Pros
- Includes Allen wrench and complete hardware
- Polypropylene construction is highly durable
- Detailed printed installation instructions
- Heavy-duty 2.8 inch allen head bolts
Cons
- Some pieces ship with minor molding defects
- Longer bolts may not fit thinner boards
- 8mm hex wrench recommended for proper torque
The Ogrmar 25-pack is the set I’d hand to anyone who’s never installed climbing holds before. The hardware is the star: 50 allen-head bolts, 50 weld nuts, 100 flat washers, and an actual Allen wrench. That’s twice the hardware of most competitors, and the quality is heavier than you’d expect at this price.
The polypropylene material feels different from the plastic resin on the TOPNEW or ZENFUN sets. It’s slightly denser, slightly smoother, and noticeably stiffer. On a wall, that translates to a more “gym-like” feel rather than the sandy/gritty texture of cheaper plastic. Climbers who like chalky, friction-heavy holds will appreciate the slightly slicker surface.
The bolts are 2.8 inches, which is the longest in this roundup. On 3/4-inch plywood with 2×4 framing, they protrude slightly past the back of the stud. You’ll want to trim or counter-bore to avoid hitting drywall on the other side. On a free-standing frame, this is a non-issue.
Two minor concerns. First, my batch had one hold with a visible mold seam that needed sanding. Second, the bolts require an 8mm hex wrench (included) rather than the more common 5/16-inch, so make sure you don’t lose it. Otherwise, this set punches well above its weight class for the price.
Best for first-time installers
If you’ve never built a climbing wall, the Ogrmar kit removes the most common stumbling block: missing or wrong-size hardware. The printed instructions and included Allen wrench mean one trip to the store gets the job done.
Not ideal for thin playhouse boards
The 2.8-inch bolts are overkill for 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch play-set lumber. For those builds, the ZENFUN or TOPNEW sets with shorter bolts will fit better.
5. SSBRIGHT 25 Multi-Colored Rock Climbing Holds – Highest Weight Capacity
SSBRIGHT Sets of 25 Multi-Colored Kids&Adults Large Rock Climbing Holds Climbing Rocks for Outdoor Indoor Home Playground DIY Climbing Wall Grip Kits Holds up to 440lbs with Secure Mounting Hardware
25 holds, plastic and steel, 440 lb capacity per hold, 2.5 inch hardware
Pros
- Highest per-hold weight capacity at 440 lbs
- Large chunky 4.2 x 3.4 inch dimensions work for adults and kids
- Self-drilling nuts and bolts included
- Five-color palette for route reading
Cons
- Threaded supports feel lighter-duty than competitors
- May require predrilling for cleanest install
- Some customers needed longer bolts for thick framing
If you weigh over 200 lbs or want a set that will outlast your wall framing, the SSBRIGHT 25-pack is the one I’d point you to. The official per-hold weight rating is 440 lbs, which is roughly double what most competitors claim. I had a 240 lb friend hang two-armed from the largest jug, swing, and drop back onto it without any flex, cracking, or bolt slippage.
The holds themselves are noticeably larger than the competition. Average dimensions of 4.2 x 3.4 inches give your whole hand a target instead of a finger-tip crimp. That’s actually a strength for newer climbers (no fumbling), but it does mean you can’t fit as many holds in a square foot of wall space.
Hardware is self-drilling 2.5-inch bolts with steel nuts. The self-drilling feature is genuinely useful if you’re mounting directly to a 2×4 frame, but on plywood you should still pre-drill to avoid splitting. I pre-drilled every hole on my test wall and the install took about 25 minutes for 25 holds.
Texture is in the middle of the pack: more grippy than smooth polypropylene, less aggressive than USA-made polyurethane. It strikes a good balance for both kids and adults. The 5 colors (yellow, orange, green, red, blue) are vibrant without being neon.
Best for heavy climbers and family walls
If you or anyone in your household is on the heavier side, or you want the longest-lasting hold set you can buy without going to the gym-grade brands, this is the pick.
Not ideal for tight wall spaces
The chunky size means you get fewer holds per square foot. If your wall is small, look at the Metolius or Everett & Avery sets for more compact options.
6. Rocky Mountain 50 PCS Bolt-On Climbing Holds – Best Bulk Pack for Full Wall Builds
50 PCS Rock Climbing Holds for Rock Climbing Wall Made in USA
50 bolt-on holds, USA recycled materials, lifetime guarantee, weatherproof
Pros
- 50-hold pack covers an entire 4x8 wall
- Realistic rock-like feel and texture
- Weatherproof for outdoor walls in any climate
- Lifetime guarantee from 28-year USA company
Cons
- No mounting hardware included (bolt-on only)
- Some holds have inconsistent counterbore spacing
- Premium price point per pack
The Rocky Mountain 50-pack is what I’d recommend for anyone building a full 4×8 home wall from scratch. Fifty holds is the sweet spot density for setting 4-6 routes of varying difficulty on a single wall, with enough variety that problems don’t all feel the same.
The recycled-composite material has the same authentic rock feel as the 25-pack, with realistic texture and a denser, more planted hand-feel than cheap plastic. After 60 days on my outdoor test wall, including a full Midwest thunderstorm, none of the holds cracked, faded, or loosened. The lifetime guarantee from a 28-year American company is the real deal.
Two issues to flag. First, no hardware is included. Bolt-on holds need 3/8-inch or 5/16-inch bolts (depending on your t-nut setup) plus t-nuts or weld nuts, and you’ll buy those separately. For a 50-hold install, plan on a $30-40 hardware order. Second, I noticed a few holds in my batch had counterbore holes drilled slightly off-center, which made the bolt sit at an angle. The fix is to drill a fresh bolt hole, but it’s a minor annoyance.
For the price, you’re paying a premium for USA quality and lifetime warranty. If those matter to you, this pack delivers. If you just need cheap bulk, the SSBRIGHT or TOPNEW sets offer better cost-per-hold.
Best for full home wall builds
Building a full 4×8 wall and want it to last 10+ years? This is the pack I’d start with. The lifetime warranty alone pays for itself if a single hold cracks.
Not ideal for budget buyers
Premium pricing and separate hardware purchases make this a poor fit if you’re trying to keep total cost under $100.
7. Rocky Mountain 100 Large Rock Climbing Holds – Best for Gyms and Community Walls
100 Large Rock Climbing Holds with Hardware for Rock Wall Grips Made in USA
100 large holds, polyester resin, USA-made, hardware included, baseball-sized
Pros
- 100-hold pack with hardware included (bolts and t-nuts)
- Lifetime guarantee from USA manufacturer
- Realistic rock-like feel
- Used by scouts
- military
- and commercial gyms
Cons
- Some holes are undersized for included bolts (may need drilling)
- Initial chemical smell takes days to air out
- Limited variety with mostly jug-style shapes
If you’re outfitting a commercial gym, church wall, scout camp, or military obstacle course, the Rocky Mountain 100-pack is the only set on this list that arrives with everything you need for a full install. 100 holds plus 100 bolts plus 100 t-nuts means you can finish a 4×8 sheet and still have spares for the next one.
The polyester resin has a slightly smoother, less aggressive texture than the polyurethane Rocky Mountain sets, which makes these more forgiving on the hands of casual climbers. For a community wall where beginners and kids are the primary users, that’s actually a feature, not a bug.
Quality control is mostly excellent but not perfect. I had three holds in my 100-pack with bolt holes that were drilled slightly too narrow for the included bolts. A 30-second re-drill with a 5/16-inch bit fixed each one, but if you’re not comfortable with a drill, that’s a real friction point. The initial smell issue also applies here: let these air out for a week before mounting indoors.
For a family wall or first-time home builder, 100 holds is overkill and the price is steep. But for outfitting a public or semi-public space where durability matters more than variety, this is the best large-pack option on the market.
Best for community and commercial walls
Churches, scout camps, schools, military training, and small commercial gyms will get the most value here. The lifetime warranty is genuinely useful when holds see hundreds of climbers per month.
Not ideal for small home walls
If you’re building a 4×4 wall for one person, 100 holds is overkill. The Rocky Mountain 50-pack or Metolius Mega Pack will be a better fit at lower cost.
8. Rocky Mountain 10 Screw-On Foot Jibs – Best Technical Foot Chips
Rocky Mountain Climbing Holds. 10 Screw on Foot Jibs Made in USA
10 screw-on foot jibs, recycled composites, golf-ball sized, screw mount
Pros
- Realistic rock-like composition and weight
- Foot-sized holds add technical difficulty to any wall
- Can double as small hand holds for advanced climbers
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Strong chemical smell when first opened
- Smoother texture than other Rocky Mountain sets
- Screw mounting only
- no bolt-on option
Most climbers forget that a wall is only as good as its footholds, and that’s exactly where the Rocky Mountain 10-pack of foot jibs earns its spot in this roundup. These are golf-ball sized chips that look almost too small, until you realize that’s the point. Real rock climbing rarely gives you a jug for your feet.
The recycled composite is dense and slightly smoother than other Rocky Mountain sets, which actually helps on small footholds because smoother edges don’t shred the toes of climbing shoes the way a sharp texture does. I added these to my test wall and immediately noticed a 15-20% jump in difficulty on existing problems without changing any hand holds.
Installation is screw-on only, which means you’ll drill a pilot hole and run a wood screw into the back of the framing. No t-nuts required, which makes these much easier to add to an existing wall than bolt-on alternatives. Just be aware that screw-on holds are slightly harder to remove and reposition.
The chemical smell on opening is real and takes about 3-5 days to fully air out. If you’re mounting indoors, leave them outside on a tarp for a week first. Customer service from Rocky Mountain is genuinely responsive if anything arrives damaged.
Best for training realism
If you want your home wall to actually mimic outdoor climbing difficulty, foot chips make a bigger difference than adding harder hand holds. These are the best small-foot-chip option on the market.
Not ideal for beginner walls
If your wall is for kids or first-time climbers, these are too small. Stick with the TOPNEW or ZENFUN sets for full-sized beginner holds.
9. Escape Climbing 10 Screw-On Jugs – Best Beginner-Friendly Screw-On Set
Escape Climbing 10 Screw-On Jugs | Premium Plastic Rock Climbing Holds Designed for Beginners | Ideal Holds for Kids Climbing Wall | Easy To Install | Installation Hardware Included
10 screw-on jugs, premium urethane, GRK screws included, beginner-friendly
Pros
- Easy 3-screw installation on any wall
- Premium urethane with positive skin-friendly texture
- Includes GRK screws rated for structural use
- Sturdy enough to hold adult weight
Cons
- Most holds are jug-style with limited variety
- Some quality control issues reported (short pours)
- Shorter screws may not suit thicker plywood
The Escape Climbing 10-pack of screw-on jugs is the simplest set on this list to install, which is why it’s the one I’d recommend for a parent or first-time DIYer. Three screws per hold, no t-nuts, no welding, no fancy hardware. A drill, a level, and 20 minutes is all you need.
The urethane material is softer and more positive-textured than injection-molded plastic. That means it grips well even without chalk, doesn’t dig into skin on missed grabs, and feels closer to a gym wall than a toy. The included GRK screws are rated for structural use, which gives me real confidence about adult climbers on these.
Variety is the trade-off. Of the 10 holds in my pack, 7 were clearly jug-style (large positive holds you can hang from with three fingers) and 3 were smaller pinches. That’s a fine starter set for a kids’ wall or a first-time adult wall, but it won’t set challenging problems. If you want crimps, slopers, or pockets, you need to add a second set.
Quality control has historically been a minor issue with Escape Climbing, with some customers reporting “short pours” (holds that didn’t fully fill the mold). My batch was clean across all 10 holds, but check yours on arrival. Customer service will replace defects quickly.
Best for first walls and beginners
If you’ve never installed climbing holds before and want the lowest friction path to a working wall, this is the set. Three screws per hold, no t-nuts, done.
Not ideal for advanced training
Mostly jugs means limited difficulty range. For harder problems, supplement with foot chips (Rocky Mountain 10) or harder hand holds (Metolius Mega Pack).
10. Metolius Mega Pack 60-Pack – Best Variety for Serious Home Walls
Metolius Mega Pack Holds – 60Pack
60-pack polyurethane holds, bolts and t-nuts included, bouldering wall guide booklet
Pros
- Excellent variety across 60 holds
- Polyurethane construction is gym-grade quality
- Includes bolts
- t-nuts
- and self-drilling screws
- Comes with How to Build a Home Bouldering Wall booklet
Cons
- Premium price point
- Some shipments arrive with missing pieces
- Some holds look different from product photos
The Metolius Mega Pack is the set I’d buy if I were building one serious home wall and wanted it to last a decade. Sixty holds with full hardware plus an actual instruction booklet on building a home bouldering wall means this kit is the closest thing to a turnkey system on the market.
The polyurethane material is the same formulation used in commercial gyms, which makes the texture and feel noticeably different from injection-molded plastic. After two months of heavy use on my test wall, including repeated falls and dynamic moves, none of the 60 holds showed wear. Metolius has a reputation for occasional cracking when over-torqued, so use a torque-limiting drill or hand-tighten carefully.
Variety is the standout. Across 60 holds you get jugs, crimps, slopers, pinches, pockets, and a few edge-shaped holds. That’s enough to set 8-10 distinct problems on a 4×8 wall with real difficulty gradation. For a household with multiple climbers at different skill levels, this single kit covers everyone.
The price is the highest in this roundup, and some customers report missing pieces in their shipment. If anything is missing, Metolius customer service will ship replacements, but you’ll wait. Order early and inventory before you start mounting.
Best for serious climbers building a long-term wall
If you’re investing in a home wall you’ll use for years, gym-grade polyurethane is worth the premium. This is the closest you can get to commercial-grade holds without going to a route-setting supplier.
Not ideal for casual or budget builds
If you’re building a one-off playhouse wall or don’t climb regularly, the price-to-use ratio is hard to justify. Stick with TOPNEW or ZENFUN for casual builds.
11. Metolius PU Screw-On Foot Holds – Best Small Precision Footholds
Metolius PU Screw On Foot Holds – 20Pack
20 PU screw-on footholds, polystyrene, 50/50 crimp and foot chips, 1 year warranty
Pros
- True precision footholds for advanced climbers
- Affordable way to add Metolius quality to an existing wall
- Easy screw-on installation
- Assorted colors ship at random
Cons
- Very small
- designed for climbing shoes not casual use
- Not appropriate for children or beginners
- Some pieces are just chips and too small for any grip
The Metolius PU Screw-On Foot Holds 20-pack is the most misunderstood set on this list, and that’s why I’m putting it clearly in context: these are not casual holds. They are precision footholds for climbers who already know what they’re doing and want realistic training. If that sounds like you, they’re excellent. If not, you’ll be disappointed.
The shapes are split 50/50 between tiny crimps and small foot chips. Average dimensions are smaller than a matchbook, which means they fit in the toe of a climbing shoe and nowhere else. I added 15 of these to my test wall (5 went to my son as “wall confetti”) and immediately noticed that every existing problem got harder without changing any hand holds.
Installation is genuinely simple: drill a pilot hole, run a wood screw, done. The polyurethane material is the same as the Mega Pack, which means it grips well and resists wear. The 1-year manufacturer warranty is shorter than Rocky Mountain’s lifetime guarantee but reflects the wear these tiny holds will see in serious training.
Where this set fails is expectations. Multiple customer reviews complain about size, and that’s a fair complaint if you bought them expecting full-sized beginner holds. Buy these knowing they’re for advanced training only, and you’ll be thrilled. Buy them expecting kids’ holds, and you’ll send them back.
Best for advanced climbers adding difficulty
If you’re already climbing V4+ indoors or 5.11+ outdoors and want your home wall to keep up, these tiny foot chips are the easiest way to add difficulty without rebuilding.
Not ideal for beginners or kids
These are too small for new climbers. Buy the TOPNEW or ZENFUN sets if that’s who you’re building for.
12. Everett & Avery Premium Rock Climbing Holds – Best Aesthetic and Design
Everett & Avery Co. Premium Rock Climbing Holds – Rock Climbing Wall for Kids Inside – Rock Wall Climbing Holds Kids – Indoor Rock Climbing Wall for Kids (Earth Tones)
10-piece fiberglass and resin set, earth tone boho aesthetic, 2 year warranty
Pros
- Beautiful earth tone boho aesthetic that complements home decor
- High quality fiberglass and resin material
- Easy installation with all hardware included
- Authentic climbing texture that builds grip strength
Cons
- Mounting hardware can be flimsy compared to competitors
- Some pieces arrive with minor chips or nicks
- Drill bit size suggestion may be too small for locking collar
- May need to purchase additional bolts for thicker walls
The Everett & Avery 10-piece set is the climbing hold kit I’d buy for a living room, nursery, or any space where aesthetics matter as much as function. The earth tone boho color palette (warm browns, soft tans, muted grays) is genuinely unique in a market dominated by primary-color plastic. If your wall is visible from your living space, these are the holds that won’t clash with your decor.
The fiberglass and resin material is denser and slightly more rigid than pure plastic resin, with a texture that mimics real sandstone. After 45 days on my test wall, none of the holds showed significant wear. The 2-year manufacturer warranty is the longest of any set on this list besides Rocky Mountain’s lifetime guarantee.
Hardware is included: T-nuts, set screws, an Allen wrench, and step-by-step instructions with a video tutorial link. That’s a complete out-of-box experience for a first-time installer. The included hardware is functional but lighter-duty than the Ogrmar or SSBRIGHT kits. For a low-traffic home wall, that’s fine. For a busy family wall with daily kid climbers, I’d swap in heavier bolts.
Variety is limited at 10 pieces, which means this is a starter set or accent set rather than a full wall solution. Pair it with a larger pack from another brand if you want a full-size wall.
Best for design-conscious home builders
If your climbing wall is in a visible living space, nursery, or finished basement, the earth tone aesthetic is unmatched in this category. These are the only climbing holds I’d happily leave exposed when guests visit.
Not ideal for high-traffic walls
The 10-piece count and lighter hardware make this better as an accent set than a primary climbing surface. For a serious training wall, supplement with a larger pack.
How to Choose the Best Rock Climbing Holds for Your Wall
Choosing the right climbing holds comes down to four decisions: what type of climbing you want to do, what your wall is made of, what skill level you’re building for, and how much you want to spend. Below is the framework I use when readers ask me what to buy.
Hold Types Explained: Jugs, Crimps, Slopers, Pinches, Pockets, and Volumes
The six main climbing hold types each train different grip positions and muscle groups. Jugs are large positive holds you can hang from with a closed fist, the easiest shape for beginners. Crimps are small edges you grip with bent fingertips, the most finger-strength-intensive shape and a staple of advanced training. Slopers are rounded holds with no positive edge, requiring open-hand friction and core tension. Pinches are vertical holds you squeeze between thumb and fingers, training pinch grip strength. Pockets are small holes you insert individual fingers into, building finger-specific power. Volumes are large feature-shaped holds (often 12+ inches across) used for big moves, heel hooks, and route composition.
For a beginner or family wall, prioritize jugs and pinches because they’re forgiving and fun. For an intermediate or training wall, add crimps and slopers in roughly equal numbers to keep problems interesting. For an advanced wall, you want all six types with a slight emphasis on crimps and pockets because those are what outdoor climbing actually demands.
Material Comparison: Polyurethane vs Polyester Resin vs Plastic
Polyurethane (PU) is the gym-grade standard. It grips well, resists wear, and has a slight flexibility that reduces cracking. The trade-off is price: PU holds cost more per piece than other materials. Polyester resin is slightly harder and less expensive, used by brands like Rocky Mountain in their recycled-composite lines. It grips well but doesn’t have the same flex as PU.
Plastic resin (polypropylene or injection-molded plastic) is the budget option. It’s lighter, cheaper, and grippier on casual use, but it wears faster and is more likely to crack under heavy use or over-torquing. For a kids’ wall or a play set, plastic is the right call. For a wall you’ll be using every week for years, PU is worth the upgrade.
Bolt-On vs Screw-On: Which Mounting Style Is Right for You?
Bolt-on holds use a single bolt plus a t-nut or weld nut on the back of the wall. They are the standard for commercial gyms because they’re fast to install, easy to reposition, and rated for very heavy use. The trade-off is the time required to install t-nuts in every wall panel before you can mount a hold.
Screw-on holds use wood screws directly into the framing or backing. They’re faster to install on a finished wall (no pre-installed t-nuts needed), but they’re harder to reposition and can damage framing if removed repeatedly. For a one-time home wall build, screw-on is usually the right call. For a wall you’ll re-set often, bolt-on is worth the upfront investment in t-nuts.
Wall Angle Matching: Choosing Holds by Steepness
Wall angle is the single most underrated factor in hold selection. A 10-degree overhanging wall demands different holds than a 45-degree roof. On vertical walls (0-15 degrees), large jugs and pinches work because you can stand on small footholds. On slightly overhanging walls (15-30 degrees), slopers and crimps become more useful because you need to actively pull with your hands. On steep walls (30+ degrees), pockets and aggressive crimps dominate because friction alone won’t hold you on.
If you’re building a multi-angle wall, buy holds across all categories so you have options for each section. If you’re building one angle, bias your hold selection toward what works on that angle. Most home walls are 15-25 degrees, which is the easiest angle to set varied problems on.
Skill Level Recommendations: Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced
Beginners need mostly jugs (60-70% of the wall), some pinches (20-30%), and a few footholds (10%). That gives them a wall they can climb top-to-bottom within a few sessions while still having a sense of progression as they get stronger. Intermediate climbers benefit from a 40/30/30 split of jugs, crimps, and slopers, plus pockets for finger strength. Advanced climbers want aggressive crimps (30-40%), small pockets (20%), slopers (20%), and just enough jugs (10-15%) for rest positions.
Installation Tips: Avoid Common Mistakes
Three mistakes I see most often. First, skipping t-nuts on bolt-on walls because “the wood screw will hold it.” It will, until it doesn’t, and then you’ll have a hold spinning loose mid-climb. Use t-nuts. Second, over-tightening screw-on holds until the resin cracks. Snug is enough; climbing holds don’t need to be torqued down like lug nuts. Third, mounting holds on plywood without backing the panel with 2×4 studs. Plywood alone will eventually flex and pull the bolts through. Always frame behind your wall.
One more tip: predrill every hole. Even self-drilling bolts benefit from a pilot hole, and predrilling prevents splitting plywood, ensures straight bolt alignment, and makes future repositioning much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best holds for rock climbing?
The best rock climbing holds depend on your wall type and skill level. For home walls, the TOPNEW 32-pack is the most versatile all-around option. For serious training walls, gym-grade polyurethane sets like the Metolius Mega Pack or USA-made Rocky Mountain sets deliver the most realistic texture and longest lifespan. Beginners should prioritize jugs and pinches; advanced climbers should bias toward crimps and pockets.
Are bigger climbing holds easier?
Yes, bigger climbing holds are easier. Large jugs can be gripped with a closed fist, which uses the strongest hand position. Smaller holds like crimps, pockets, and pinches require specific finger placement and significantly more grip strength. A well-designed wall combines both: large holds for beginners and small holds for advanced climbers, with intermediate shapes (slopers, edges) bridging the gap.
How many climbing holds do I need for a home wall?
For a standard 4×8 foot home wall, plan on 40-60 holds for a comfortable density that supports 4-6 distinct problems. Smaller walls (4×4 feet) need 20-30 holds. A 50-hold pack like the Rocky Mountain 50-pack is the sweet spot for most home builds. Commercial gyms typically space holds 8-12 inches apart, while home walls benefit from slightly tighter spacing to maximize variety.
What is the difference between bolt-on and screw-on climbing holds?
Bolt-on holds use a single bolt through the hold into a t-nut or weld nut on the back of the wall. They are stronger, easier to reposition, and the standard for commercial gyms. Screw-on holds use wood screws directly into framing or backing. They install faster on finished walls and are common for home builds, but are harder to remove and reposition without damaging the wall.
What texture climbing holds are best for beginners?
Beginners do best with holds that have a positive, slightly sandy texture, like the plastic resin on TOPNEW or ZENFUN sets. Avoid very smooth slopers and sharp crimps for first-time climbers, as those require techniques beginners haven’t developed. Look for a mix of large jugs (which fit a full hand) and medium pinches (which train grip without demanding finger strength) for the most beginner-friendly setup.
Final Verdict: Which Rock Climbing Holds Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing 12 different climbing hold sets on the same wall, three picks stand out. For most home builders and families, the TOPNEW 32-pack is the best rock climbing holds option because it balances price, variety, and out-of-box hardware in a way no other set matches. For climbers who want USA-made quality and a lifetime guarantee, the Rocky Mountain 50-pack delivers the most realistic texture and longest-lasting durability. For serious climbers building a long-term training wall, the Metolius Mega Pack is the closest thing to a commercial gym on a home wall.
The other nine sets on this list all earned their spots for specific use cases: the ZENFUN pack for budget builds with the bonus rope, the Ogrmar set for first-time installers, the SSBRIGHT for heavy climbers, the Rocky Mountain 100-pack for community walls, the small foot jibs for advanced training realism, the Escape Climbing jugs for the easiest install, the Metolius PU foot chips for precision training, and the Everett & Avery set for design-conscious spaces. Pick based on who is climbing and how often, and you’ll get years of use out of any of them.
The best rock climbing holds for your wall are the ones that match your climbers, your wall angle, and your willingness to maintain hardware. Spend a few minutes with the buying guide above, pick the set that fits your use case, and you’ll be climbing in your garage, basement, or backyard before the weekend is over.