This Climber Thinks Climbing Is ‘Absolutely Pointless’

Here’s a quick treatise on whether climbing matters — er, exactly why it both does and does not.

Written by Sam Anderson Apr 19, 2023 3:15 p.m. ET

Support us! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn More

The opening line of this rock climbing edit hits like a ground fall.

“I think that climbing is absolutely pointless,” the voiceover goes.

As a fellow climber, I will definitively say I think she’s right. Here’s the deal: Pick the hardest way to climb halfway up a cliff, and then go back down again.

So, why do it? That’s what this short documentary, set in scenic, soaring El Potrero Chico, explores.

“Climb on” — for some reason.

Runtime: 12 minutes

Sam Anderson

992 articles

Sam Anderson is a staff writer at GearJunkie, and several other All Gear websites.

He has been writing about climbing, cycling, running, wildlife, outdoor policy, the outdoor industry, vehicles, and more for 2 years. Prior to GearJunkie, he owned and operated his own business before freelancing at GearHungry. Based in Austin, Texas, Anderson loves to climb, boulder, road bike, trail run, and frequent local watering holes (of both varieties).