Climbing holds and their manufacturing techniques are closely interrelated. Traditionally, a polyester resin concrete casting is used, but polyurethane resin is also available, offering greater flexibility in shape but less longevity. For larger holds, macros and volumes, fiberglass or wood is often preferred (the shapes are more specific with wood). However, these techniques have two major disadvantages, namely their lifespan and end-of-life recycling (except for wood). Depending on how they are manufactured, the grip is generally created when the resin is poured into the mold. As the grip ages, it erodes and fills with magnesia, becoming smoother and less effective.
The thermoforming technique we use at Never Caught Holds enables us to use plastics that are both recyclable and whose grip is renewable. We sometimes use fiberglass when the shape requires it, but we prefer thermoforming.
The overall lifespan of the holds is therefore increased, and at the end of their life, the raw material can be reused for other projects.