The Rise Of The Climbing Gym Industry

Once a subculture, the climbing gym industry has crept into the mainstream with a slow but steady increase of climbing gyms nationwide, and multiple members are joining. With everyone from venture capitalists to tech entrepreneurs trying to get in on the action, this industry is sure to continue to grow and innovate.

Indoor Climbing Going Global!

According to a report by Climbing Business Journal, the indoor climbing industry saw a growth of 10% last year and is expected to increase another 13% in 2016 with the anticipated openings of 35 new gyms. The trend is spreading internationally as American gym operators are being contacted to help develop climbing programs and gyms in countries that don't have existing climbing scenes. Some of the common locations are East Asia, South America, and parts of the Middle East. Movement Climbing & Fitness owner Mike Moelter said: "I get calls at least a couple times a month from people looking to open a climbing gym."

Climbing Gyms and Big Retailers

Another trend that has begun to fuel the continued growth of the climbing gym industry is the number of major retailers itching to align their brand with the climbing culture. Online footwear merchant, Zappos, now offers a full line of climbing shoes. Outsider Online reports that Zappos founder, Tony Hsieh, consulted with Movement Climbing & Fitness owner Mike Moelter on opening a climbing gym on the Las Vegas strip.

Future Outlook For Climbing Gyms

What is the future of the climbing gym industry? Since the massive growth and momentum is still relatively new, the field is open. EarthTreks founder and CEO, and a member of the Climbing Wall Association’s board of directors Chris Warner said: “We are nowhere near the peak of this market." If the amount of money invested into the industry, like the 2015 $48,750,000 investment deal between Brooklyn Boulders and New York private equity firm North Castle Partners is any indicator, we are likely to see the rise of national climbing gym chains and an increase in the number of facilities nationally and globally.