Good spotting keeps people walking, pads working, and sessions running smooth.
Do it right and no one notices.
Do it wrong, and everyone does.
What Is Spotting
Spotting is guiding a fall so the climber lands safely on the pad.
You’re not catching them — you’re controlling direction and rotation so they hit the ground square.
Your job is to manage impact, not absorb it.
Why It Matters
Because it makes a difference.
It keeps heads and necks away from rock.
It stops falls from rolling off pad edges.
It lets climbers push harder, knowing the landing is covered.
It keeps the session moving, not ending early.
It’s a small skill that carries big consequences.
How To Spot
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Feet wide, knees soft. Stay balanced and mobile.
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Hands up, elbows bent. Palms open, fingers together, hands slightly cupped — ready to guide, not catch.
You’re controlling direction, not absorbing force.
Keep wrists straight and avoid bending fingers back; that’s how most spotter injuries happen. -
Watch the hips. That’s where a fall starts to rotate.
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Redirect, don’t grab. Guide the climber’s momentum toward the pad.
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Stay focused until they’ve landed. Don’t drop your hands early.
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Move pads when needed — but ask first. Climbers often place them with purpose.
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Never put yourself at risk. You’re managing a fall, not stopping it.
Key Considerations
Pad placement matters. Overlap seams, fill gaps, and match the pad layout to the fall line — not the flattest spot.
Read the problem. Watch the climb, predict the swing, the crux, the drop. Spotting blind is guessing.
Talk first. A quick “where do you want me?” sorts most issues before they start.
Don’t overcommit. You’re not catching anyone. Stay mobile.
Use the right pads, in the right places.
Field-tested Tips
Double up pads for highballs or uneven landings.
Keep one eye on the pad edge — most rolled ankles start there.
If you’re unsure where to stand, ask.
Don’t move pads mid-move unless the climber tells you to.
Bright pads and small landing lights make a difference at night.
Bottom Line
Spotting isn’t complicated, but it’s crucial.
Do it right and nothing goes wrong — which is exactly the point.
If your pads can’t handle the landing, fix that first.
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Whilst risk management, experience, and good practice can improve safety, bouldering pads and the information above do not guarantee safety.
Read our Safety and Liability Disclaimer for more information.
