Research and Links

When we talk about “the research”, we know it is limited.

Much of the existing research was done before indoor climbing became as popular as it is now. Methods vary widely, and there are a lot of differences between facilities. Our decision to remove loose chalk is not based on the research alone. We have used it alongside our experience as climbers, testing in our own facilities, and years of running indoor bouldering gyms around Aotearoa.

General information

For general information about air quality and why it matters for your health and wellbeing, see the material from Environmental Health Intelligence New Zealand (EHINZ) and WorkSafe / Mahi Haumaru Aotearoa.

Woman bouldering on an indoor climbing wall while other climbers watch

Climbing-specific studies

This is what we have been reading. If you come across new studies on air quality in climbing facilities, please share them with us!

Reducing dust exposure in indoor climbing gyms

S. Weinbruch et al., 2012

Compared different types of climbing chalk (blocks, powder and liquid) and their effect on indoor dust. Powdered chalk led to significant increases in airborne particulate matter. Liquid chalk effectively reduced dust, while chalk socks did not give a measurable reduction.

Dust exposure in indoor climbing facilities

Berkeley B. Almand-Hunter et al., 2014

Measured particulate matter (PM10) in climbing gyms. Concentrations were very high and were traced to powdered magnesium carbonate chalk. Breathing chalk dust may cause respiratory irritation.

Lung function and dust in climbing halls: two pilot studies

H. Moshammer et al., 2016

Looked at short-term effects on lung function in climbers exposed to dust in climbing halls. Short-term exposure can reduce lung function as the body reacts to particulate matter.

Other air quality topics

We are aware of a 2025 study on rubber-derived compounds. This is one reason many facilities around Aotearoa use high-spec ventilation and cleaning routines, and why gyms, shoe suppliers and manufacturers are talking about it worldwide.

Gyms that ban loose chalk

To the best of our knowledge, these facilities currently operate with no-loose-chalk policies (liquid chalk and chalk balls ok):

  • Climbing District (various locations in Paris)

  • Urban Climb (Australia, multi-site)

  • The Cove Bouldering (Canada)

Gyms using liquid chalk only

To the best of our knowledge, these facilities currently operate with liquid chalk-only policies:

  • Gallery Bouldering (UK)

  • Block’Out (France, multi-site)

  • Bould Move (Australia)

  • Arkose (various locations in Europe)

  • Climb Up (France and Belgium)

  • Tokyo Wall Rocódromo (Spain)