Frequently Asked Questions
Why climb?
It’s fun!
Climbing allows you to explore movement, fitness, and your body’s potential in creative and adventurous ways, testing both your mind and body.
What is bouldering?
Bouldering is the simplest form of climbing.
No rope. No harness.
Just follow the colored holds and climb to the top!
Fall onto our landing zones and get back on the wall!
What do I need?
Just yourself!
You’re welcome to bring your own climbing shoes and chalk. Otherwise, we have some available to rent, no equipment necessary.
Who can climb?
Anyone can climb! We welcome ages 5 and up, however, we do ask that minors under the age of 14 be accompanied by an adult.
I’ve never climbed before. Is that a problem?
Not at all! Our experienced route setting staff ensure there are numerous climbing routes appropriate for all levels of climbers, from first time climbers to experienced boulderers.
Don’t forget to sign the safety waiver before coming!
COVID & Climbing
Is it safe to come back to the gym?
Going to a climbing facility is not without risk, however, we are committed to good hygiene practices and other precautions which are intended to reduce and mitigate the risk of potential exposure and transmission. Please wear a mask if you prefer to do so.
I want to climb, but I want to be safe. How can I better protect myself?
It’s important to understand how COVID infects a person. It infects via mucosal membranes (primarily your nose and mouth), and this is also the main vector that it uses to spread to other people.
There are three main things that will help keep you safe:
Wear a mask. Wearing a mask while around other people is the one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and others.
Social distance. Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others.
Wash your hands. Washing your hands often and refraining from touching your face or rubbing your eyes keeps the germs from getting to a portal where it can infect you.
An effective method to remembering good COVID hygiene is to imagine there is a pile of mud and you’ve just put your hands on it. The last thing you want to do is touch your face. You’ll want to wash your hands (really well) before touching your face or eating. Also, if you’re wearing a mask, the mud will go on your mask (but not your face!).
Remember, your safety is your responsibility!
Why liquid chalk?
Liquid chalk is not only cleaner, it reduces the amount of airborne particles, thereby reducing another potential surface for coronavirus to exist on. Certain liquid chalk manufacturers have higher amounts of isopropyl alcohol in them, and preliminary data has shown inactivation of SARS-COV-2, otherwise known as COVID-19.
Another study in the UK has shown initial results that chalk actually reduces the presence of COVID-19 on plastic gym holds.
Source: https://www.abcwalls.co.uk/news/research-shows-chalk-could-be-a-climbers-best-friend/
Even more FAQ:
I had a membership/credit at The Arch Project. Does my credit carry over? Is my monthly membership still active?
Unfortunately, no. Oahu Bouldering Gym and The Arch Project are two separate entities, so your credit and membership do not carry over. You will also need to sign a new safety waiver prior to climbing, which is available here. Mahalo for your patience!
I want to bring my child in to climb, but I don’t plan to climb. Do I need to sign the waiver?
Everyone that enters the facility is required to complete the safety waiver. You will not be charged if you are not climbing, however.
When will fitness classes and kids camps be back?
They’re back! Please see our Classes page for more info and how to sign up.