16 Best Chalk Bags in 2023
When you think about climbing, you think about the climbing ropes, climbing shoes, belay devices, and a climbing helmet before the chalk bag comes to mind. Often underestimated, a climbing chalk bag is an essential part of gear used by a rock climber, a boulderer or a trad climber.
It’s hard to imagine a climber who would refrain from utilizing chalk that helps to get a good grip and stay ‘afloat’ when climbing. And rightfully so – a high-quality chalk bag that is lightweight and easy-to-use will only facilitate a faster and more efficient climbing achievement.
The best chalk bag models have a few features in common: they are built from tough material that doesn’t let the chalk spill, they don’t weigh too much to not interfere with your climb, and they are spacious enough to hold the required contents.
You want your climbing accessory to hold its shape while also to not feel bulky when attached to your harness or the belt. You will also want your chalk carrier to have a stand-out design yet released by the reputable outdoor equipment brand that tends to specialize in classical patterns.
To help you find the right chalk bag, we compiled an in-depth guide that will allow you to narrow down your list to merely a few options. Out of these top choices, you will be able to pick the bag that fits your criteria perfectly well.
Top 10 Chalk Bags in 2023
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
All the Chalk Bags We've tested
What gives one better credibility than a product that is entirely handmade? Hardly anything. The waxed canvas chalk bag by STATIC Climbing is exactly that – it is a sturdy climbing accessory that is crafted in the sunny state of California.
The manufacturer used 12 different components to hand-stitch the bag and come out with an aesthetically-pleasing gunpowder-colored product that looks and feels high-end.
It is built to last regardless of how many climbs you embark on in a year’s time – the rugged waxed exterior is to blame (read=thank). The Paracord closure ensures the contents of the bag stay put, while the anti-pill fleece lining soaks up chalk to provide you with enough supply when you run out of it.
The material of the bag is infused with the organic lavender from San Diego, which makes it an appealing accessory.
Specs & Features
- Material: Waxed Canvas, Fleece, Polypropylene Webbing
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 7 inches
- Length: 4.5 inches
- Width: 4.5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The interior of the chalk bag is spacious enough to equip you with enough chalk for a long climb
-
The entirely handmade bag makes it a reliable piece of equipment that won’t tear apart
Things we don't like:
-
The price tag is high
It is no surprise for professional climbers that single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs differ in nature and thus require different types of equipment. The Mammut multipitch chalk bag was designed for those who plan on stopping more than once at the belay station. It is large enough to store bigger-than-usual amounts of chalk for you to use when you reach the top of the rock.
There is sufficient room in the built-in pockets for your sunscreen, energy bar, and a smartphone to be placed inside and use it when you get hungry, decide to call someone or realize it’s time to reapply sunscreen. You will find an adjustable bungee located at the bottom of the bag for holding your jacket when it gets too hot.
The cylindrical shape along with the firm opening makes it easy to reach the insides of the bag and close down the bag to avoid the chalk spillage (the fleece lining helps with it too).
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 8 inches
- Length: 7 inches
- Width: 5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The webbing belt has a buckle, which makes it easy to attach the bag to either your harness or your belt
-
There is a safety lock that helps to keep the chalk in throughout the entire duration of the climb
Things we don't like:
-
The price tag is high
The two Ogres climbing chalk bag might just be the most affordable item on this list, which makes it an attractive option that won’t break the bank. Its price, however, doesn’t point to its quality – rather, this chalk bag stands out with its durable 600-Denier fabric and soft lining that makes it feel luxurious. The drawstring closure is constructed in a way to prevent any chalk spillage even in times when you hang horizontally to the ground.
The bag is large enough to accommodate climbers with big hands, which is good news – the struggle of finding the chalk bag that will fit your entire hand is more than just real. The belt buckle is slim, thus making it easy to wear the bag on top of a harness.
You will find a place to store your brush in, a zippered pocket for keeping your ID and keys safe, and a furry bottom for the chalk dust accumulation. If you consider yourself a beginner, you will likely not find a better value for the price.
Specs & Features
- Material: 600-Denier Polyester
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 7 inches
- Length: 5 inches
- Width: 5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The zippered front pocket allows you to comfortably reach your belongings without having to open the bag
-
The manufacturer’s warranty covers all types of material’s defects within the first year of use
Things we don't like:
-
The drawstring’s quality is not the best
The Arc’teryx C80 chalk bag has been raved about for years – surely, its large dimensions together with the ease of use are impeccable. The 18-inch circumference enables you to load it with chalk and expect it to last you during long haul or wall climbs without exceptions. Featuring Burly double-weave 4-way stretch fabric that is flexible yet tough, this model won’t make you spend minutes trying to reach the chalk.
The polar fleece integrated into the bag works wonders in keeping the dust at bay. The drawcord closure is of a high quality, which means that you won’t lose any chalk along the way. You have got an external pocket that fits well the small bits and pieces in close proximity to you, and an adjustable belt that helps to secure the right fit.
The price of the bag does bite, to our regret, but at least you know that you are paying for the qualitative equipment that will last you many years.
Specs & Features
- Material: Burly Double-Weave, Nylon
- Shape: Slightly Tapered
- Height: 4.7 inches
- Length: 2 inches
- Width: 2 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The slightly tapered shape of the bag enables easy access to your belongings
-
The slider attachment of the injection-molded belt doubles as a bottle opener
Things we don't like:
-
The price tag is high
The chalk bag (or, should we say bucket) by Psychi is an accessory on a wider side – it is a tapered container that is capable of holding large amounts of chalk and accommodating big hands. You can easily fit in it up to a pound of chalk and expect it to last you a full day of climbing.
Just like other chalk bags, this one has got a drawstring closure that makes it easy to access the bag’s contents and ample storage for storing your keys, brushes, and an edible. The bag has got a fleece lining that takes care of the chalk’s residue and doesn’t allow it to spill at any point throughout the climb.
The black color makes it appealing to those who are not ready to deal with dirt that shows up after a couple of climbing sessions. If you don’t have time to wash your chalk bag after every few uses, this model by Psychi is your go-to.
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Tapered
- Height: 9 inches
- Length: 9 inches
- Width: 8.5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The bag has got a grab handle that makes it easy to transport it from A to B
-
The large toggle fastening allows you to easily stock up on chalk when needed
Things we don't like:
-
The bag is not a suitable option for climbers who perform short single-pitches
Why limit yourself to equipment that caters to one industry only? Sukoa Sports chalk bag is proof that even if a product is marketed towards climbers, you can still use it for other activities including CrossFit, gymnastics, and weightlifting. When you add a highly attractive price tag, you have got yourself a winner. This cylinder-shaped chalk bag is built from a water-resistant material that holds up well even with regular use.
It is deep enough to hold big amounts of chalk that will last you several days at the very least without any spillage (thanks to the tight and adjustable drawcord closure).
Instead of one zippered pocket, you get two, which means that you can store your valuables like credit cards, keys, ID, and a smartphone without worrying about losing them. What’s more, the chalk bag comes with a belt that can be conveniently clipped to your harness and carabiners via the built-in back loops.
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 7.2 inches
- Length: 5 inches
- Width: 5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The availability of 2 zippered pockets is quite handy
-
The price tag is unbeatable – you will have a hard time finding a chalk bag cheaper than this one
Things we don't like:
-
Some customers complain about the tight fit of the bag
Beginners who haven’t established yet what features they value the most in a chalk bag will benefit the most from the Black Diamond’s Mojo bag. This model has got all the basics covered – from its rear pocket that stores your valuables all the way to brush holder and a webbing belt embedded with a quick-release buckle.
The interior is equipped with a fleece that feels right with chalk that settles on the bottom, while the closure is given the cinching cord-lock design for the security of your belongings.
There is a zippered pocket for you to keep your keys or an ID in, which is always handy. The construction of the bag enables it to stand upwards and not bend under the influence of other objects. This ensures the long-lastingness of the bag and the safety of the stuff you put inside.
Specs & Features
- Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 14 inches (M/L)
- Length: 10 inches (M/L)
- Width: 5 inches (M/L)
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The rear zippered pocket is of big help for when you don’t have pockets in your pants for smartphone, keys or a snack
-
The TPU material is abrasion-resistant, making this bag last quite sometime before it starts showing signs of wear and tear
Things we don't like:
-
The closure can be hard to use at times
The AMC rock climbing chalk bag might be the cutest gear on this list – the panda print will definitely make you stand out in the crowd. That being said, its functionality is not compromised at all. The bag can hold up to 0.7 pounds of chalk, has an easy-to-use drawstring and a handy pocket for storing your valuables. The wide opening means that climbers with large hands won’t have trouble dipping into the bag and digging out the chalk without spilling it.
There is a soft fleece lining at the bottom of the bag that accumulates the chalk residue and provides you with an additional supply of chalk when needed.
You can either attach your chalk bag to your harness with the help of the available loops or secure it around your waist – regardless of how you carry your climbing equipment, you will never run out of chalk.
Specs & Features
- Material: Polyester
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Length: 4.7 inches
- Width: 5.9 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The design of the bag definitely makes this chalk bag an eye-catching equipment
-
The affordability of this chalk bag means you won’t be spending a fortune on a recreational gear
Things we don't like:
-
The drawstring closure doesn’t close as tightly as desired
If you are tight on money but are not willing to settle on a cheaply made climbing equipment, the GGBuy drawstring chalk bag is hands down your best bet. Crafted from the durable 600-Denier Polyester, it is designed to last you a long time without tearing apart. You can easily dip your hand into it and thus prevent your fingers from getting slippery when you are high above the ground.
The drawstring closure is of a high enough quality to protect your chalk and not let it spill at any point during the climb. The front and back pockets serve well as a storage space for your keys, cards, and other valuables.
The chalk bag comes with an adjustable buckle belt to be attached to your waist, or, in case you prefer to have your chalk hanging on the harness, there is a Nylon webbing carabiner to utilize for this purpose.
Specs & Features
- Material: 600-Denier Polyester
- Shape: Flat
- Height: 7.5 inches
- Length: 5.1 inches
- Width: 3.2 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The Oxford Polyester fabric is waterproof, which is great for times when it starts drizzling
-
The price of the bag is beyond affordable
Things we don't like:
-
The construction of the bag is not of high quality
PrAna takes pride in its products’ simplicity and straight-to-the-point attitude, and this is reflected in their chalk bags too. The Polyester Supersuede material of the bag is nice to the touch, whereas the fleece lining creates a comfortable pillow for the chalk. You won’t find any unique technical features integrated into the bag, but that’s what makes it appealing. There is not much structure to the bag either – it flops around when you climb yet doesn’t interfere with your climbing.
Although it might not be every climber’s first choice, it can easily become a go-to for a climber with a free spirit who needs just the right amount of chalk for a satisfactory climbing session.
Rest assured that you are not being tricked into anything – you get what you see, which is, in fact, a well-made climbing bag that does its job well.
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon, Cotton
- Shape: Cylinder
- Height: 6.5 inches
- Width: 6.5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The fleece-lined bottom of the bag can hold enough chalk to last you until your next climbing session
-
The drawcord closure is of great quality, meaning that chalk has no chance to escape the bag
Things we don't like:
-
There is nothing special about this chalk bag
There’s no chalk bag more classic than the Petzl’s Saka model. This ergonomically-shaped climbing accessory gives you easy access to the chalk and covers your fingers deep in it. Its tapered shape along with the soft material gives it an advantage over other chalk bags – it doesn’t cause any discomfort when wearing it on your waist. Even in times when you are close to the rock and the bag seems to come in contact with the wall, the chalk has no chance of spilling.
The cord lock attached to the drawstring proves to be practical when opening and closing down the bag in the middle of a climb. Moreover, you can perform these actions with one hand only – that’s how flexible the opening of the chalk bag is.
There is a toothbrush holder located inside the bag for those ‘just in case’ situations and a liner sewn into the bag’s bottom for avoiding flipping the insides.
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon, Polyester
- Shape: Tapered
- Height: 6.3 inches
- Length: 5.1 inches
- Width: 1.6 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The rigid rim helps to maintain the shape of the bag
-
The fabric is quite soft yet it doesn’t make the bag floppy
Things we don't like:
-
Some users complain that the chalk bag is not deep enough
In case conventional chalk bags don’t do it for you anymore, you might want to check out the Andes chalk bag by Evolv. As its name suggests, the bag was woven by hands in Andes mountains. How many people can say they have an item made from organic cotton and crafted in the South American heights? Not many. Its unique design is definitely one in a million, and you can be the proud owner of one. The chalk bag has got a tapered shape for the easier finger dip into the chalk, and a well-built drawstring that holds the chalk in.
It is indeed beautifully made without compromising any of the chalk bag’s key functionalities, which just goes to show that you don’t need to follow the crowd and opt for trivially-designed equipment.
You can take it a few steps further and invest in a practical gear that looks exotic and feels good. It comes with a fully adjustable belt too.
Specs & Features
- Material: Organic Cotton, Nylon
- Shape: Tapered
- Height: 8 inches
- Length: 7 inches
- Width: 2 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
It is handwoven in the Andes mountains, which speaks about the high quality and the long-lastingness of the bag
-
The tapered shape makes it easy to reach chalk and dip your entire hand in it
Things we don't like:
-
The bag’s design might be a turn off for some climbers
Survivor positions their chalk bags as great add-ons for powerlifting, gymnastics, CrossFit, and every other physical activity that doesn’t have anything to do with climbing. This means that you are killing two birds with one stone – getting a bag that fits chalk and gym accessories. The drawstring located at the top of the cylindrical bag helps the chalk to stay put no matter what. It tightly seals the bag and eliminates the risk of accidental spilling.
The manufacturer took the creation of a chalk bag to another level by providing customers with a bottle of chalk in a liquid form and a refillable chalk ball. You should be using the liquid grip first, after which you can throw it in one of the bag’s side pockets and use the chalk ball to maintain the friction till the end of your climbing session.
This concept is unique to this item and it allows you to cover your hands in chalk and not worry about running out of it in the middle of your climb.
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 6.3 inches
- Length: 5.1 inches
- Width: 5.1 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The 2 side pockets allow you to keep your smartphone and keys close to you at all times
-
The exterior of the bag has a place for holding your toothbrush
Things we don't like:
-
It can be hard to dip your entire hand in the bag for a climber with large hands
Made from durable ripstop Nylon, upAgear 4-in-1 chalk bag is a high-quality climbing accessory that holds its shape well thanks to the rims around the edges. It has a large opening that allows you to dip your hands into chalk without getting lost. The idea to create an anti-leak design resulted in the integration of a dustproof and waterproof lining, a gaps-free drawcord, and double-stitched seams by the manufacturer.
There is a large pocket with a fleece for you to store your wallet, keys, or a smartphone. This comes in handy when you are planning on climbing all day long and are not counting on coming back to the ground in the middle of the day.
You get a fantastic grip with this chalk bag that can be easily attached to your waist belt and carried until you are done with your climbing session for the day.
Specs & Features
- Material: Ripstop Nylon
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 1.5 inches
- Length: 7.4 inches
- Width: 6.3 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The adjustable belt doesn’t slide off due to the built-in Nylon buckle
-
The chalk bag comes with a refillable powder chalk balla
Things we don't like:
-
Not suitable for bouldering
Are you an athlete who is just getting into climbing? Then the chalk bag by Athletrek has a full potential to become your companion. It is built from Nylon that promises to hold the bag’s shape well for many years. The easy pull cord allows you to tightly cinch the chalk bag and open it back up when you need to re-dip your fingers. This way you’re not wasting any chalk and are given the opportunity to handle the accessory with one hand only.
The 2 zippered pockets work great to secure your belongings and prevent them from escaping the bag. Whether you decide to pack your keys, credit cards, or a smartphone, they will all be safe and sound. The manufacturer included a 2-ounce reusable chalk sack to store your favorite chalk in so that no sweaty hands touch the rocks.
The quick-clip belt strap along with the small carabiner and an additional clip equip you with just enough resources to keep climbing until it’s time to go back home.
Specs & Features
- Material: Nylon
- Shape: Cylindrical
- Height: 7 inches
- Width: 5 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The 2-ounce reusable chalk sack comes in handy when rock climbing
-
The 2 zippered pockets allow you to stuff them with plenty of small things you are not willing to part with
Things we don't like:
-
There are no unique features
The DMM Edge chalk bag is a completely different fruit from all the other chalk bags on the market. It looks like an actual bag that you grab by the top handle and carry to your destination. In reality, it is a heavy-duty chalk bag that climbers have grown to be keen on when it comes to tricky routes and long climbing sessions. Made from tough fabric, it has a zippered pocket designed to store your valuables in a secure manner.
You will find 4 brush holders and a hook-and-loop pocket to be a part of the bag’s storage too. The manufacturer incorporated deluxe pile lining for chalk to reside on the bottom of the bag that is reinforced to be stable.
This prevents any spillage of the chalk. What also contributes to keeping the chalk in the bag is the chalk-proof closure. Basically, every single detail works well to provide you with the ultimate climbing experience that will leave you craving for more.
Specs & Features
- Shape: Flat
- Height: 12 inches
- Length: 14 inches
- Width: 4 inches
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
The grab handles make it easy to transport the bag from A to B
-
The quality of the lining is up to the high standards
Things we don't like:
-
The price tag is high
Frequently asked questions
If you are planning on getting into rock climbing, chances are you did your research and are aware of all the tools one needs for successful skill acquisition. Chalk bags are one of them – they are essentially a carrier that stores climbing chalk for you to easily dip your hands and fingers into when climbing. With the right chalk bag and good quality chalk, you are guaranteed to get a good grip and not slip no matter how new you are to the activity.
The climbing game can be won only if you have easy access to your tools, which is why it is so crucial to invest in a lightweight chalk bag that is quick to open without spilling chalk along the way. Your chalk bag ought to have a sturdy construction that won’t interfere with your climb but rather sit tight on your harness or belt and serve its primary purpose. Climbers are known for choosing chalk bags that can be easily differentiated in a crowd and are thus considered to be the most personalized accessory.
A classic climbing chalk bag doesn’t weigh more than 10 ounces and has sufficient space for you to reach out for chalk with one or even two hands. Depending on your level of expertise and the length of your typical climbing sessions, you will need to consider a few key chalk bag features that can either make or break them. Those features include the bag’s shape, type of closure, interior lining, construction details, and attachment options.
When speaking about shapes, you will most likely stumble upon either cylindrical or tapered chalk bags. While the former tend to be more popular among climbers, the latter is great for beginners or for those whose climbing sessions are on the short side. If reducing the amount of weight is a priority of yours and you don’t mind dipping merely one of your fingers into chalk, opt for a tapered chalk bag. If, however, you prefer to take long routes and like having enough space in your chalk bag for dipping, go for a cylindrical model.
The drawcord closure on chalk bags is the standard that most climbers favor for rock climbing. It makes it easy to open and close the bag without putting too many efforts into it. That being said, it is handy to have an additional lock or a double drawstring closure to ensure none of the chalk escapes the bag. The standard for the bag’s lining, fleece, is another non-negotiable for every climber. This type of interior fabric allows you to easily spread the chalk through palms and fingers without slipping out through the bag like it can with porous linings.
It is essential to choose the chalk bag that has enough pockets for you to store the necessities like phone, keys, and cards. If some of these pockets are zippered, this is even better for security reasons. What also helps in keeping your chalk secure is the availability of an adjustable belt that can be attached to their waist. Some climbers incline towards harnesses over belts, but the practice shows that chalk bags that can be attached to belts are more convenient to use – they can easily slide from one side to another thus allowing you to dip either one of your hands.
As with every type of equipment, there are several options available for you to choose from depending on your needs. Small chalk bags are, unquestionably, the most lightweight and are the preferred choice of beginners or those who undertake short climbing routes. They don’t fit big chunks of chalk and are great for climbers who are not willing to be carrying excess weight on them while climbing.
Bigger bags, on the contrary, work best for group bouldering activities and for circumstances that require larger volumes of chalk. These models allow you to entirely cover your hands and fingers and thus get the best grip possible. Chalk bags of larger than regular dimensions tend to be heavy, which is why climbers tend to carry them in groups and let them sit on the ground for the execution of a pre-problem dip.
You might be wondering whether your climbing chalk has an expiration date – at the end of the day, you don’t want your climbing tools to go bad before you know it. Since most of the climbers don’t climb every day, it makes sense why there is a logical question as to what is an expiration date of chalk. Good news – unlike food products, climbing chalk can serve you much longer than what its expiration date states. It is highly unlikely for your chalk to turn into a different substance once it’s expiration date is due.
It is, however, important to note that the quality of your chalk can become worse over time if you don’t take proper care of it. Before climbing, you must ensure its consistency is the same as it was when you first bought it so that you wouldn’t experience any mishaps along the way. Your climbing chalk can seem to be of a different consistency since its drying agent does, in fact, lose its effectiveness as the time passes. For this reason, store your chalk in a zippered bag in a dark place so that it serves you as long as it can.
Just as with any other type of bag, you can wash your chalk bag if it gets dirty. Since rock climbing can be a messy outdoor endeavor, it is smart to refresh your gear once in a while. This doesn’t mean that you have to wash your chalk bag after every use, but once per season for an active climber and once a year for an amateur climber is sufficient. Make sure your chalk bag completely dries before using it again as it might affect the quality of the chalk placed in a humid bag.
If you already have a chalk bag or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.
Comments