Where to Buy Climbing Chalk
Ever chalked up mid-route and thought, “Yes, this feels amazing!”? That’s the magic of good chalk. At CHALK REBELS, we’ve found most climbers fall into one of two camps: chunky lovers who enjoy that crunchy texture they can break up on the fly, or smooth enthusiasts seeking a silky dust that glides over every fingertip. Whichever you prefer, finding the right chalk feel can make all the difference in nailing your next send.
Not all chalk is created equally, though, and not everyone who sells chalk knows what they’re doing. Some shops might carry generic sports chalk meant for gymnastics or weightlifting, which can be less refined, and poor storage can impact quality. Obviously, if you want the best, order online right here from chalkrebels.com. But if you need alternatives, here are a few suggestions.
Most climbers these days simply buy chalk at their gym, which often sells multiple brands—even gym-branded chalk—letting you compare quality and feel on the spot. This setup is perfect for impulse buys, and you can test new chalk right away. General outdoor stores sometimes carry chalk alongside climbing gear, but they usually focus on big-ticket items like technical outdoor wear. Chalk may be an afterthought, so the selection could be limited, and the stock might have been on the shelf for a while.
Specialized climbing shops typically carry more brands and offer more options to try. Here in Belgium, local stores like Kariboe in Leuven and Steenuil in Mechelen are prime examples. You can also buy online—either direct from us at chalkrebels.com or through other marketplaces. Just keep in mind that places like Amazon can have plenty of generic labels not specifically made for climbing.
Types of chalk also matter: powder is the classic choice, easy to use and widely available; liquid chalk is spill-proof and great if you sweat a lot or if your gym frowns on dust; and blocks or chunks let you crush the chalk to your preferred texture. At CHALK REBELS, we offer it all—eco-friendly liquid chalk that dries quickly, powder chalk in compostable packaging, and a variety of blends to suit your style. Since chalk can dry out your hands, we also recommend our Repair Balm or Cream to keep calluses healthy.
Ultimately, choosing the right chalk comes down to personal preference: some climbers love a super fine powder while others want chunkier blends. It’s wise to experiment with small or travel-size packs before committing to larger bags. Price doesn’t always dictate quality, but sometimes a higher-priced chalk includes added drying agents or comes in more skin-friendly formulas. Many climbers also look for sustainably packaged or responsibly sourced products, so keep an eye on eco-friendliness. And while you’re stocking up, don’t forget essentials like brushes, balms, and a few stickers to personalize your chalk bag.
Image by Felicia Montenegro