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Climbing Wall Policies

Climbing is dangerous! Please be alert and attentive. Play it safe!

  • No climbing of any kind is permitted when the Climbing Wall is closed.
  • Footwear must be worn at all times – no bare feet!
    While climbing, only climbing shoes may be used (no street shoes, sandals or bare feet).
  • Loose chalk is not permitted.
  • All climbers must complete a liability waiver each academic year. Waivers are valid from June 1 to May 31.
  • All climbers must swipe in. This helps us keep track of our daily usage.
  • Personal harnesses and shoes may be used at the discretion of the Climbing Wall Staff. Climbers must demonstrate proper use of their equipment.
  • Please report to the Climbing Wall Staff any injuries, loose holds, or damage to the Climbing Wall or equipment.
  • Jewelry should be removed before climbing, especially rings, watches, and large earrings.
  • The Climbing Wall Staff have final say on safety issues. Climbers disregarding these rules may lose climbing privileges.
  • Children younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • If necessary, staff reserve the right to limit the number of people in the Climbing Wall area to be able to maintain physical distancing protocol
  • No street shoes or shoes that have been worn outside of the climbing area will allowed on the climbing wall. Climbing shoes must remain in the climbing area only.  Climbers must remove climbing shoes before leaving the climbing wall area for any reason.

Bouldering

  • Bouldering is not allowed at the TCU Climbing Wall.

Top-Rope Climbing

  • Good communication between the climber and belayer is key! Use the proper climbing commands when climbing!
    All climbers must be tied in to the appropriate harness point(s) with a Figure 8 follow-through knot. No clipping into the rope with a carabiner!
  • We provide climbing harnesses. Harness straps must be doubled-back through buckles in order to properly function. Ask for assistance if you are unsure how to fit and operate a climbing harness.
  • To prevent injuries to self and others, climbers must climb only under the anchor to which they are connected.
  • All belayers must have passed the Belay Skills Verification Check. Belay privileges are valid for 12 months; after which, belayers must re-verify by passing a new Belay Skills Verification Check.
  • The Climbing Wall Staff have the obligation to address any and all safety issues, including incorrect belay technique. Be open to feedback. Dependent upon the degree of variance from our standards, your belay privileges may be revoked and you may be required to complete a new Belay Skills Verification Check and/or Belay Class before regaining belay privileges.

Lead Climbing

  • All lead climbers and belayers must have completed the Lead Safety Test at least every 6 months.
  • Lead climb only on designated lead climbing ropes (provided by the Climbing Wall).
  • Lead climbers must wear a helmet (provided by the Climbing Wall).
  • Skipping quick draws will not be tolerated and will result in revocation of privileges.
  • Lead climbing classes must be made by appointment. Contact the Climbing Wall Student Manager.

Outdoor Equipment Rental Center
Rental and Reservation Policies

  • All equipment is available to current TCU students, faculty, and staff upon presentation of a current student or faculty/staff ID card.
  • Reservations may be made in person up to 2 weeks in advance at the Campus Recreation Office. The full fee must be paid upon making a reservation. Equipment not reserved is available on a first-come, first-served basis during operating hours and must be paid for in full at the time of rental pick-up.
  • Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours prior to check out time or rental fees paid will not be refunded.
  • No credit or refund will be issued for items rented but not used or for early return.
  • The user assumes all risk and responsibility for any and all claims for damages and injury suffered while using the equipment.
  • Please return equipment to the Outdoor Center during normal operating hours. Equipment returned to other areas in the University Recreation Center will not be accepted.

Late, Damage, & Replacement Fees

  • Equipment returned late will be charged a $10 per day late fee.
    Individuals abusing equipment or not following procedures may be ineligible to rent equipment in the future.
  • Equipment must be returned clean, dry and in good order or a fee will be assessed for the item. Any gear that is excessively dirty will be assessed a cleaning fee. Excessively wet gear will not be accepted until dried.
  • Damaged or lost equipment will be assessed at current retail prices for repair or replacement.
  • Tents are flammable! No candles, lanterns, heaters, or any other heat sources should be brought inside tents or near sleeping bags. Do not smoke inside tents. Keep tents away from campfires.