SBP Poplar is planning a demolition of the crack wall and to be replaced with multiple spray walls and systems boards. This demolition work is planned to start around April 1st. Help us prevent the loss of the crack walls!

Cracking climbing is already severely under-represented around Seattle gyms. I fell in love with climbing because it is so personal and everyone gets to discover their own diverse style. I believe crack climbing offers one such diverse experience and is worth offering in gyms.

By demolishing this facility, we will all be losing more than just another climbing wall. SBP Poplar currently offers one of the few crack training facilities where climbers can improve their skills without going outside. I have personally met many people who use this as a training ground for Index. Therefore the crack walls are not just another training wall, but also a place where the crack community can gather and help each other grow. Once demolished, this amazing sub-community will be lost.

Just as different climbing styles require different skills, crack climbing is no exception and helps teach good body and rock awareness. I was first introduced to crack climbing after watching the Wide Boyz film [1]. The film documents the story of Tom Randal and Pete Whittaker training crack climbing in their cellar for years and then going on to climb some of the hardest climbs in the world. Tom, co-founder of Lattice training, and Pete, an author and accomplished climber, are both testament to how crack climbing can make for strong climbers. 

For all it offers, I implore SBP to please save the crack wall.

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDElVaVRJco