Visit Our Website

Lead Climbing Class

Lead Climbing Class

Ready for the sharp end?

This class introduces the skills needed to begin lead climbing and lead belaying safely. You’ll learn how to manage the rope, clip efficiently, communicate with your partner, perform safety checks, lead belay with an assisted-braking device, and practice controlled falling.

After completing the class, climbers should continue practicing these skills before taking the Lead Check-Off to earn lead-climbing certification at Vertical Ventures.

Prerequisites

  • Level 2/top-rope belay certified at Vertical Ventures
  • Comfortable climbing at least 5.9
  • Must have your own harness, climbing shoes, and assisted-braking belay device
  • Participants under 16 are subject to Vertical Ventures’ adult-supervision requirements for lead climbing and belaying

Pricing

  • Members: $55
  • Guests: $75

Optional Gear Bundle
Add a 25m gym rope and save $20.

During the class, we’ll cover:

  • Lead-climbing and belaying communication
  • Partner and equipment checks
  • Proper clipping technique
  • Rope management
  • Lead belaying with a GriGri or approved assisted-braking device
  • Body positioning while belaying
  • Controlled falling and catching falls
  • Common lead-climbing hazards and how to avoid them

After Class

Completing the class does not automatically grant lead certification. Continue practicing until you are confident and proficient, then schedule a Lead Check-Off to demonstrate your skills and receive your lead certification.

Select Course
VV
Available
Full
Waitlist
Unavailable
Today
MoTuWeThFrSaSu
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
September 8, 2026
No courses available for September 8, 2026.
Powered by Redpoint HQ — 1.3.745