Starting on 1 August 2024, we’re rolling out a brand-new tops-on policy at our centre. This change aligns with many centres practices, and we’re confident it will enhance everyone’s climbing experience.
Why the Change? Let’s Break it Down:
A Warm Welcome for All:
- Inclusive Climbing: We’ve heard you loud and clear—feedback from surveys, reviews, and personal chats has highlighted that shirtless climbing can make some folks uncomfortable. This includes families, newcomers, and people from various cultural and religious backgrounds. Our mission? To make sure every climber feels at home at Highball.
Climbing Together, Equally:
- Fair Play: We’re all about equality. While we know it can get toasty in the summer, not everyone feels great climbing without a top. Vests and crop tops? Perfect solutions! Even the world’s best climbers keep their tops on during competitions, proving you can climb fully clothed.
- Reflecting Diversity: Our climbing community is wonderfully diverse, and we want everyone to feel equally represented and comfortable.
A Friendly, Respectful Environment:
- Welcoming New Climbers: We want Highball to be a place where everyone—from the newest newbies to the seasoned pros—feels welcome. Seeing a bunch of shirtless, super-fit climbers can be daunting for beginners. By keeping our shirts on, we create a more inclusive space that encourages everyone to give climbing a go.
What to Wear? Here Are Your Options:
- Vests, crop tops, sports bras, and any other comfortable layers that suit your style and the season.
Thank you for embracing this new policy with us. Together, we’re making Highball Climbing Centre a more inclusive, welcoming place for every climber.