Benchmark Climbing — Local services in San Francisco

I’ve been an avid climber for well over a decade, routesetter for half of that time. I’ve routeset at 3 different major gym chains in the US. Benchmark has some of the highest caliber setting from v0-vHard of any gym I’ve ever worked for or climbed in. There’s engaging and flowy movement at any level (the feet and hands are height inclusive, and intuitive) and I find myself enjoying warmup climbs as much as “projects”. They’ve got a fantastic hold selection as well. It’s obvious that the minds behind the creation and execution of this gym, from wall angles, to routesetting and atmosphere, are talented, dedicated, and experienced climbers. It’s a climber’s climbing gym.

Though I have a great appreciation for them, the other local competitors offer a huge quantity at comparatively much lower quality. It’s obvious that they’ve got a lot to set, and do not dedicate as much time to each route that goes up. I have more to climb that’s interesting and fun at Benchmark than competing gyms with 10x the routes. Beyond the setting, the gym is run by a warm, inclusive crew and offer programs to help underprivileged and hard-and-out individuals have access to the gym at subsidized rates—something their successful competitors very surprisingly do not.

All-around, very impressed with what they’re doing and encourage local Bay Area climbers to come check it out. You will not be...

A fantastic space for bouldering. Nice chill vibes, and just so welcoming, even as an out-of-towner.

The walls themselves are quite big so plenty of routes to try. I would say that the initial difficulty curve for beginners is a bit steep (

One of my friends climbs so we stepped in to check this new place out . If I can give them 10 stars I would !! Starting from the friendly faces in the front to such a fine clean interior design to cool refreshments ..But the best part of it is how very friendly and educating some of the staff is . As someone who is clearly not an avid climber one of the girls- Linda was so nice and guided us throughevery step from beghiner level showed us tricks and encourage us! Didn't get a chance to take shot of the changing rooms , but they have showers and changing rooms lockers separtae bathrooms/ gender neutral ! there is also a gym !!the best part is that we got confused refreshments 😁 at the end of the climbing and we got to hangout and play board games . I'm definitely...