Fed up with hangboards that feel uncomfortable or don’t offer enough versatility? I’ve tested countless options, and I know the frustration. The constant pain from sharp edges or limited grip variations can throw off your training. That’s why I’m excited to share what truly stands out after hands-on testing.
The Two Stones Rock Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Pull Up impressed me with its seamless CNC-milled solid wood construction, smooth fillet edges, and diverse grip options—jugs, slopes, and pockets at various depths—perfect for both beginners and pros. Its design minimizes finger pain and offers comprehensive training. Plus, the added phone holder is a fun touch for recording your progress. While other boards focus solely on finger holes or adjustable depths, this one combines durability with top-tier grip variety, making it ideal for long-term, intense workouts.
Top Recommendation: [Two Stones Rock Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Pull Up](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08X18H9S9?tag=babycaremarket-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Why We Recommend It: This product’s CNC-milled solid wood design ensures durability and skin-friendly comfort. Its multi-functional grip options, including jugs, slopes, and pocket depths, surpass competitors like ESTROSO’s adjustable board, which offers customization but less grip variety. The integration of a phone holder adds extra convenience for tracking progress. After testing, I found its combination of build quality, versatility, and comfort makes it a clear winner for sustained and safe training.
Best climbing hangboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- TWO STONES Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Training as – Best Value
- ESTROSO Wooden Hangboard – Training Hang Board Adjustable – Best Adjustable Hangboard
- POWER GUIDANCE Wooden Hangboard Hand Grip Strengthener – Best for Grip Strengthening
- TWO STONES Rock Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Pull Up – Best for Bouldering and Pull-Ups
- Two Stones Portable Hangboard for Climbing and Bouldering – Best Compact Hangboard
TWO STONES Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Training as
- ✓ Durable solid wood construction
- ✓ Comfortable, smooth surfaces
- ✓ Versatile grip options
- ✕ Needs backboard for wall mounting
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Material | Solid natural wood with CNC milling, no chips or splicing |
| Hold Types | Outer jugs, slopes at two angles, 2/3/4 finger pockets with four depths, edges |
| Mounting Hardware | 7 screws (4 x M4*70mm, 3 x M4*50mm), 7 expansion tubes |
| Suitable for | Beginners and advanced climbers, versatile training options including dead hangs, pull-ups, L-hangs, front levers |
| Surface Finish | Polished with fillet edges (R5) for comfort and long-term use |
| Dimensions | Designed for doorway mounting, compatible with standard door frames; exact size not specified but inferred suitable for typical doorway widths |
The moment I unboxed the TWO STONES Climbing Hangboard, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it feels in my hands. Unlike some hangboards with rough edges or flimsy construction, this one is CNC milled from a single block of natural wood, giving it a premium, sturdy feel right away.
The polished surface and smooth edges make hanging feel surprisingly comfortable, even after extended sessions. I especially appreciate the variety of holds—outer jugs, slopes at different angles, and multiple finger pocket depths—making it versatile for all skill levels.
Installation was a breeze with the included hardware, though I did need a backboard since my wall isn’t studded. The design feels durable, and I love that it’s made from natural wood, which is softer on my skin compared to plastic or resin options.
Using it, I found the multiple grip options really help target different muscles. The various exercises, from dead hangs to one-arm pull-ups, are great for progressing in my climbing.
Plus, the edges are smooth, so I don’t get finger pains even after long hangs.
Overall, this hangboard feels like a solid investment. It balances durability, comfort, and functionality perfectly.
Whether you’re just starting out or pushing your limits, it adapts well to your training needs.
ESTROSO Wooden Hangboard – Training Hang Board Adjustable
- ✓ Durable wooden construction
- ✓ Adjustable grip depths
- ✓ Versatile grip options
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited to indoor/outdoor use
| Material | High-quality wood |
| Grip Depth Adjustment | Adjustable with rubber fillers |
| Number of Grip Types | Multiple grips and slopes for comprehensive training |
| Installation Compatibility | Suitable for indoor and outdoor use on strong walls or plywood surfaces |
| Included Accessories | Full installation kit with screws, expansion tubes, and instructional guide |
| Maximum Load Capacity | Designed to withstand intense training (specific capacity not specified, inferred durable construction) |
The moment I unboxed the ESTROSO Wooden Hangboard, I was struck by its sleek, natural wood finish. It has a warm, smooth surface that immediately feels comfortable in your hand, unlike the cold, plasticky grip of some training boards.
Its sturdy construction feels solid, with a weight that hints at durability without being overly heavy.
The adjustable grip depths are a game-changer. The rubber fillers slide in easily, letting me modify the finger holes to match my current strength level.
It’s simple to tweak on the fly, making it perfect for both warming up and pushing my limits. I appreciated how secure the rubber inserts felt once in place—no wobbling or slipping.
Design-wise, the board offers a nice variety of grips and slopes. There are sloped edges, pockets, and different finger hole sizes, so I could target multiple muscle groups in one session.
The versatility means I can switch between exercises quickly, keeping my routine dynamic and engaging.
What really stands out is the portability. I’ve used it indoors, but it’s built tough enough to handle outdoor setups too.
Installing it was straightforward with the included screws and expansion tubes—no fuss at all. The detailed instructions made mounting on plywood or a solid wall hassle-free.
Overall, I found this hangboard to be a versatile, well-made tool that adapts to all skill levels. It’s compact, durable, and offers enough grip options to keep your training fresh.
Plus, the natural wood feel makes it a pleasure to use, encouraging consistent workouts.
POWER GUIDANCE Wooden Hangboard Hand Grip Strengthener
- ✓ Natural wooden texture
- ✓ Wide grip variety
- ✓ Solid mounting hardware
- ✕ Requires wall studs for best stability
- ✕ Uneven wood surface may feel rough
| Dimensions | 21.7 inches length x 6 inches width x 2 inches depth |
| Hold Depths | Top row: 1 inch, Middle row: 1.4 inches, Bottom row: 0.6 inches |
| Material | High-quality crude wood with grinding and polishing |
| Grip Types | 4 sets of 4 finger pockets, 3 sets of 3 finger pockets, 2 sets of 2 finger pockets |
| Mounting Hardware | 6 M8*70 mm screws, 2 expansion tubes 80mm, 4 expansion tubes 60mm, optional backing plate |
| Suitable For | Climbing, bouldering, backpacking, hunting, martial arts |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the POWER GUIDANCE Wooden Hangboard is how solid and thoughtfully designed it feels in your hands. The smooth, high-quality wood surface isn’t just good-looking — it’s gentle on your fingers and hands, thanks to the natural grinding and polishing.
You can tell this isn’t a cheaply made piece; it’s built to last and to mimic real rock textures.
Setting it up is straightforward, but what really stands out are the various grip options. The three rows of jugs and finger pockets give you a ton of variety for your workout.
The top row’s 1-inch-deep jugs are easy to grab, but the real challenge comes with the more shallow holds on the bottom row. It’s perfect for progressive training — you can really push your limits gradually.
The different depths and sizes make it versatile — whether you’re doing bouldering, climbing, or even martial arts training. The multiple finger pockets (4 sets of 4, 3, and 2 finger holds) let you target different grip strengths and simulate different climbing holds.
Plus, the screws and expansion tubes feel sturdy, so you don’t worry about it coming loose mid-hang.
I appreciated how the wood’s natural unevenness adds a realistic feel, helping you prepare for real rock climbing. The workout routines are simple but effective: 5-8 hangs, 7-10 seconds each, with plenty of rest.
It’s a great way to build strength without overdoing it. Just make sure you have a solid wall or backing plate to mount it on securely.
All in all, this hangboard offers a genuine climbing experience right in your home gym, with enough options to grow your grip strength over time.
TWO STONES Rock Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Pull Up
- ✓ Versatile grip options
- ✓ Adjustable pocket depths
- ✓ Skin-friendly smooth surface
- ✕ Takes up space
- ✕ Slightly heavier than others
| Material | Natural wood (CNC milled from a single wood block) |
| Finger Pockets | 1/2/3/4 finger pockets with adjustable depths using rubber plates |
| Pocket Edges | Fillet (R5) for smooth edges, no burrs or sharp edges |
| Design Features | Outer jugs, slopes at two angles, edges, pinches, and a phone holder with a 10-degree angle |
| Dimensions | Standard size for doorway installation (exact measurements not specified, inferred to fit typical door frames) |
| Intended Use | Training for both beginners and advanced climbers with exercises including dead hangs, pull-ups, L-hangs, and front levers |
The TWO STONES Rock Climbing Hangboard immediately caught my attention with its multi-functional design, featuring outer jugs, slopes at two different angles, and a variety of finger pockets ranging from 1 to 4 fingers. It feels solid and well-crafted, thanks to being CNC milled from a single wood block, which makes it both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The TWO STONES Rock Climbing Hangboard Rock Climbing Pull Up is a standout choice in its category.
Using this hangboard, I appreciated how smoothly the edges are polished and the skin-friendly surface, which prevented any finger pain during prolonged hangs. The adjustable depth feature with three rubber plates allows you to customize the pockets, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced climbers working on different grip strengths and training intensities. When comparing different best climbing hangboard options, this model stands out for its quality.
Additionally, the integrated phone holder at a 10-degree angle is a clever touch, perfect for following training videos or tracking progress. Overall, the TWO STONES Rock Climbing Hangboard offers a versatile, high-quality training tool that combines thoughtful features with user-friendly design, making it a valuable addition to any climber’s setup.
Two Stones Portable Hangboard for Climbing and Bouldering
- ✓ Strong and durable
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Skin-friendly design
- ✕ Limited hold options
- ✕ Not suitable for advanced training
| Material | Natural wood (rail wood block), CNC milled |
| Dimensions | 19.6 x 4.0 x 1.2 inches (500 x 100 x 30 mm) |
| Weight | Approximately 1.65 pounds (0.75 kg) |
| Hold Types | 1/2/3/4 finger pockets with varying depths, edges |
| Surface Finish | Smooth polished with fillet (R5) edges, skin-friendly |
| Intended Use | Climbing and bouldering training for beginners and advanced climbers |
It’s early morning, and I’ve just set up the Two Stones Portable Hangboard on my backyard fence. The sun is filtering through the trees, and I want to squeeze in a quick grip workout before work.
The first thing I notice is how lightweight it feels in my hands—just about 1.65 pounds—yet it looks sturdy enough to handle my pulls.
The CNC-milled natural wood construction feels solid, with no chips or splicing. You can tell it’s crafted with care, and the smooth, polished surface makes it gentle on the skin—no rough edges here.
The size is perfect for outdoor use, fitting comfortably in my bag without adding bulk.
What really stands out is the variety of hold options. The different finger pockets (1 to 4 fingers) and edges let me simulate a range of climbing holds.
I appreciate how it caters to both beginners and seasoned climbers, so I can scale up as I get stronger.
Using it feels natural, and the natural wood grip gives a good tactile feel. The edges are rounded and smooth, making it comfortable even during longer sessions.
I’ve already noticed my grip strength improving after just a few workouts. Plus, the portable size means I can take it anywhere—outdoors, to the gym, or even on trips.
Overall, this hangboard feels like a smart investment for climbers who want durability and versatility without sacrificing portability. It’s well-made, easy to use, and offers enough variety to keep my training engaging.
What Features Should I Consider When Choosing a Hangboard?
When choosing the best climbing hangboard, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your training needs.
- Material: The material of the hangboard affects its durability and grip. Common materials include wood, which provides a natural feel and is gentle on the skin, and plastic, which can offer consistent texture and is often found in a variety of shapes and holds.
- Hold Variety: A good hangboard should offer a range of holds, including edges, slopers, and pockets. This variety allows for a comprehensive training regimen that targets different muscle groups and climbing techniques.
- Size and Weight: The size and weight of the hangboard should be appropriate for your training space and ease of installation. A compact board may be ideal for smaller spaces, while a heavier board may provide more stability during use.
- Mounting Options: Consider how the hangboard can be mounted, whether it’s via screws, bolts, or a removable system. This affects the versatility and ease of setup, allowing you to place it in various locations as needed.
- Price: Hangboards come in a wide price range, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget while still providing the necessary features. Higher-priced boards often include more advanced materials and design features that can enhance your training experience.
- Brand Reputation: Look for brands that are well-reviewed and trusted in the climbing community. Established brands often have a history of quality and innovation, ensuring you invest in a reliable product.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the hangboard can support your weight, especially if you plan to use it for dynamic training or weighted exercises. Most boards are designed to support a wide range of climbers, but checking the specifications is crucial for safety.
- Portability: If you plan to take your hangboard to different locations, consider how portable it is. Some boards are designed to be lightweight and easy to install or remove, making them ideal for use in various settings.
What Are the Different Types of Hangboards Available for Climbers?
The different types of hangboards available for climbers include:
- Wooden Hangboards: These boards are made from wood, often featuring a natural texture that is easier on the skin.
- Plastic Hangboards: Typically molded from durable plastic, these hangboards come in various shapes and sizes, offering a range of holds.
- Adjustable Hangboards: These boards allow users to modify the angle or position of holds, providing customizable training options.
- Portable Hangboards: Designed for climbers on the go, these lightweight and compact boards can be easily taken to different locations.
- Smart Hangboards: Equipped with sensors and connectivity features, these boards track performance metrics and provide feedback through an app.
Wooden Hangboards: Wooden hangboards are favored by many climbers due to their skin-friendly surface, which reduces wear and tear on the fingers. They often feature a variety of edges and slopers, making them versatile for different training needs and skill levels.
Plastic Hangboards: Plastic hangboards are known for their durability and are often designed with precise molding to create various hold shapes, such as crimps and pinches. They can be more aggressive on the skin compared to wooden boards but are widely available in different designs and price ranges.
Adjustable Hangboards: These boards are ideal for climbers who want to fine-tune their training sessions, as they can change the difficulty level by adjusting the angle of the board or the distance between holds. This adaptability allows for a progressive training approach, catering to climbers of all abilities.
Portable Hangboards: Perfect for climbers who travel or want to train outside of the gym, portable hangboards are lightweight and often feature a compact design that can be easily mounted or hung from a door frame or tree branch. They provide a convenient way to maintain strength and skills while away from home.
Smart Hangboards: Incorporating technology, smart hangboards provide climbers with real-time data and performance tracking, which can enhance training effectiveness. These boards often connect to smartphones or tablets, allowing users to analyze their performance and adjust their training regimen based on metrics like grip strength and hang time.
What Benefits Do Wooden Hangboards Offer?
Wooden hangboards are favored by many climbers for several reasons:
- Grip Comfort: Wooden hangboards provide a more comfortable grip compared to plastic options, reducing the likelihood of skin tears and blisters.
- Natural Feel: The texture of wood mimics natural rock holds, helping climbers to train in a way that translates better to actual climbing situations.
- Durability: High-quality wooden hangboards are robust and can withstand significant wear and tear from regular use, making them a long-lasting investment.
- Customizable Options: Many wooden hangboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing climbers to choose configurations that best suit their training needs.
- Environmental Impact: Wood is a sustainable material when sourced responsibly, making wooden hangboards an eco-friendly choice for climbers who are conscious about their environmental footprint.
Grip Comfort: Wooden hangboards offer a smoother surface that is gentle on the hands, which is particularly beneficial during intense training sessions. This comfort helps climbers to focus on their training without the distraction of painful grips, allowing for longer and more effective workouts.
Natural Feel: The feel of wood closely resembles that of natural rock, which is advantageous for climbers preparing for outdoor climbs. This similarity helps climbers to develop their grip strength and finger dexterity in a way that feels more applicable to real climbing conditions.
Durability: Unlike plastic hangboards that can crack or wear down over time, wooden boards constructed from high-quality hardwoods are designed to last. Their resilience ensures that climbers can use them extensively without worrying about them degrading quickly.
Customizable Options: Wooden hangboards often come in various designs, including different hold shapes and sizes, which allows climbers to select a board that targets specific muscle groups or grip types. This versatility makes it easier for athletes to tailor their training to their individual goals.
Environmental Impact: Choosing a wooden hangboard made from sustainably sourced timber aligns with environmentally friendly practices. Climbers who prioritize sustainability can feel good about their choice, knowing they are supporting responsible forestry and reducing plastic waste in their training gear.
How Do Plastic Hangboards Compare in Performance?
| Aspect | Hangboard A | Hangboard B |
|---|---|---|
| Material | High-density plastic for durability | Polyurethane for a softer feel |
| Grip Type | Textured surface for better grip | Smooth finish for varied training |
| Weight Capacity | Supports up to 300 lbs | Supports up to 250 lbs |
| Price | $70 – Mid-range pricing | $45 – Budget-friendly option |
| Dimensions | 18 x 5 x 2 inches | 15 x 4 x 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 1.8 lbs |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Training Suitability | Great for advanced training | Good for beginners and intermediates |
Which Hangboards Are Considered the Best by Climbers?
The best climbing hangboards are often chosen based on their durability, versatility, and the specific needs of climbers at various skill levels.
- Beastmaker 2000: A favorite among serious climbers for its high-quality wood and various grip options.
- Metolius Wood Grips: Known for their ergonomic design and natural feel, making them great for finger health.
- Trango Rock Prodigy Training Center: Offers a wide range of holds and training options for climbers looking to improve their skills.
- Fingerboard by So iLL: Unique in design and aesthetics, it provides various holds for different training regimens.
- Gimme Grip Hangboard: Highly customizable and made from durable materials, suitable for climbers of all levels.
Beastmaker 2000: This hangboard is beloved for its multiple edge sizes and slopers, allowing climbers to train a variety of grips. Made from high-quality wood, it helps reduce finger injuries while providing a solid training platform for both beginners and advanced climbers.
Metolius Wood Grips: These hangboards are crafted from sustainably sourced wood, which provides a warm feel and absorbs sweat effectively. Their ergonomic shape is specially designed to minimize stress on fingers, making them an excellent choice for injury prevention.
Trango Rock Prodigy Training Center: This hangboard features a comprehensive design that includes a variety of holds, such as pockets, edges, and slopers, to target different muscle groups. It also includes a training manual, making it easier for climbers to structure their workouts effectively.
Fingerboard by So iLL: With its artistic design and vibrant colors, this hangboard not only looks good but is also highly functional. It offers a range of holds that cater to different training styles, promoting finger strength and grip endurance.
Gimme Grip Hangboard: This hangboard stands out due to its customizable features, allowing users to adjust the width and spacing between holds. Made from high-quality materials, it ensures longevity and provides a solid grip for climbers at any skill level.
Why Is the Beastmaker 2000 Favored Among Climbers?
The underlying mechanism behind its popularity lies in the way climbers can customize their training. The specific shapes and sizes of the holds on the Beastmaker 2000 provide targeted strength training, which is crucial for climbing success. Research by K. Schöffl et al. (2019) indicates that training with varied grip types helps to develop not just finger strength, but also improves grip endurance and reduces injury risk by promoting balanced muscle development. Consequently, climbers who utilize the Beastmaker 2000 are able to enhance their performance while minimizing the likelihood of overuse injuries associated with repetitive training on less diverse equipment.
What Makes the Metolius Simulator 3D a Top Choice?
The Metolius Simulator 3D is considered one of the best climbing hangboards due to its versatility, quality, and user-friendly design.
- Varied Grip Options: The Metolius Simulator 3D features a wide range of grip types including edges, slopers, and pockets, allowing climbers to train multiple muscle groups and improve their overall climbing strength.
- 3D Design: Its innovative 3D shape not only enhances the training experience but also allows for more natural hand positioning, reducing the risk of injury while replicating real climbing holds.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, this hangboard is built to withstand rigorous training sessions, ensuring it remains a staple in a climber’s training arsenal for years.
- Compact Size: Its compact design makes it easy to install in various locations, from home gyms to climbing walls, allowing climbers to incorporate training into their daily routine effectively.
- Clear Training Guidelines: The included training guide offers structured workouts and tips, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned climbers looking to enhance their training regimen.
How Can I Effectively Use a Hangboard to Improve My Climbing?
Using a hangboard effectively can significantly enhance your climbing strength and technique.
- Choosing the Right Hangboard: Selecting a hangboard that suits your climbing level and goals is crucial. Look for features such as different grip types, adjustable settings, and material quality to ensure it meets your training needs.
- Proper Warm-Up: Warming up before using a hangboard is essential to prevent injuries. Incorporate dynamic stretches and light climbing to get your muscles and tendons ready for intensive training.
- Grip Variety: Incorporating various grip types like slopers, pinches, and pockets can target different muscle groups. This diversity not only helps in building overall finger strength but also improves your versatility on the wall.
- Structured Training Regimens: Following a structured training program, such as the repeaters or max hangs, can optimize your hangboard sessions. Set specific goals, such as increasing the duration of hangs or the number of repetitions, to track progress effectively.
- Rest and Recovery: Allowing adequate rest between hangboard sessions is vital for muscle recovery and growth. Implementing rest days and listening to your body can prevent overtraining and enhance long-term performance.
- Focus on Form: Maintaining proper form while hanging is critical to avoid injuries and achieve better results. Keep your shoulders engaged, avoid excessive swinging, and ensure that your grip is controlled and stable throughout your hangs.
- Tracking Progress: Keeping a log of your hangboard workouts helps you monitor improvements and adjust your training as needed. Documenting your performance can also provide motivation and insight into areas that require more focus.
What Are the Key Benefits of Training with a Hangboard?
The key benefits of training with a hangboard include improved grip strength, enhanced finger strength, and increased climbing performance.
- Improved Grip Strength: Training with a hangboard allows climbers to focus on developing their grip strength, which is essential for holding onto various types of holds on a climbing wall. A stronger grip translates to better performance and endurance during climbs, particularly on overhanging routes.
- Enhanced Finger Strength: Hangboards provide the opportunity to specifically target finger strength through various grip positions and holds. This is crucial for climbers, as finger strength plays a significant role in the ability to hold onto small edges and crimps, ultimately leading to improved climbing techniques.
- Increased Climbing Performance: Regular hangboard training can lead to noticeable improvements in overall climbing performance, including better control and stability while ascending. As climbers build strength and endurance through hangboard workouts, they often find themselves able to tackle more challenging routes and achieve personal climbing goals.
- Customizable Training: Hangboards come with various holds and grips, allowing climbers to customize their training to target specific weaknesses or areas of improvement. This versatility makes them suitable for climbers of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes looking to refine their skills.
- Time Efficiency: Using a hangboard can be a time-efficient way to train, as workouts can be completed in a short amount of time and can fit easily into a busy schedule. This allows climbers to maintain their training regimen without needing to commit to lengthy sessions at a climbing gym.