Sterling Rope just dropped two new packs to help climbers bring their gear to the gym or crag in an ‘easy and organized way,’ the company said.
Compared to many other sports, climbing offers a relatively easy entry point.
It’s just shoes and maybe a chalk bag for bouldering, and the addition of quickdraws, a harness, and rope for sport climbing. But pretty quickly, it becomes clear that the beat-up JanSport you’ve been using since high school won’t last long against sharp rocks.
That’s when climbing packs come in handy, like the new offerings from Sterling, a Maine-based company known mainly for its ropes. The company’s bags allow for easy transport of the basics while accommodating the increasing variety of climbing gear.
If you’re in the market, Sterling’s bags, including the Bartleby Gym Bag and the Wonderwall Crag Bag, might be just the thing. The company said both are named after popular climbing routes in Maine’s Acadia National Park and are lightweight, durable, and designed specifically for climbers.
Sterling Bartleby Gym Bag Details
Once upon a time, climbers used the same backpack for everything. Now, there are bags like the Bartleby, designed solely for trips to the world’s exploding population of climbing gyms.
Sterling calls it “an indispensable pack for gym climbers who combine work and play.” This 28L pack has enough room for the essentials and comes in a “modern design” for use at the gym, office, or travel, Sterling wrote.
The bag’s MSRP clocks in at $120.
Features:
- 180-degree clamshell opening for ultimate access
- Segregated stinky/dirty compartment
- Ultra-comfortable shoulder straps
- Removable waist strap
- Laptop sleeve
- Key/gym membership clip
- Multiple interior organizer pockets
- External organizer pocket
- Ripstop nylon fabric
Sterling Wonderwall Crag Bag Details
The Wonderwall Crag Bag could be considered the “step up” for gym climbers looking to get outside. Or it could simply be an upgrade for outdoor climbers who shredded their old pack after years of adventure.
This larger, 33L pack comes with top-loading and roll-top features, making it ideal for trad and sport climbers looking for versatility, Sterling said. A wide-mouth front zipper opening “allows fast and easy access to all of your gear,” the company said.
With an MSRP of $180, you’ll have to shell out a few extra bucks for this one.
Features:
- Ultra-comfortable shoulder straps
- Removable padded waist belt
- Wide-mouth duffel opening for easy gear access
- Roll-top closure for flexible loading and expanded volume
- Top cinch strap for external carry options
- Integrated hydration port and bladder pocket
- Internal organizer pocket
- Internal compression harness to keep your load stable
- Ripstop nylon fabric
Sterling has long earned a reputation for solid gear. But if you want a colorful bag that stands out from the crowd, look elsewhere. As of right now, it appears that the packs only come in black.
Learn more about Sterling’s bags and products on its website.
