Best Way To Keep Climbing Hooks From Rubbing Ankles

This article covers the best way to keep climbing hooks from rubbing ankles. Climbing hooks are a necessity for any climber. Those small metallic hooks (anchors) can be a nuisance, however. Using this technique will not eliminate (this is not possible) the rubbing of climbing hooks against the ankles but will reduce the discomfort. It may not be possible to eliminate climbing hooks from rubbing against your ankles. It is possible, however, to reduce the irritant. Next time you are on the mountain, use this as a means of reducing your discomfort from hooks rubbing against your ankles.

Elimination of rubbing is not possible unless you pay close attention to the position of the hook while climbing. Since your attention should be elsewhere, this is not practical. With this in mind, the two options below provide the best solution to the rubbing of hooks against your ankles.

The best ways to keep climbing hooks from rubbing against your ankles are:

1. Anchor tie downs: Consider the investment of tie downs to secure your climbing anchors after they have been placed. Tie downs are inexpensive and easy to place and secure. These tie downs will keep the anchor stable on the rope and keep it from swinging during your climb. This trick will reduce the impact against your ankles but will not eliminate touching.
2. Ankle bands: Another popular option is to use ankle bands. These are similar to wrist sweatbands. They are thick but breathable overlays for the ankle. This provides padding between the ankle and the climbing hook. It does not eliminate rubbing, but the guard provides such a cushion that you will not notice the hook against your ankle.