Metolius was one of the first major climbing companies to offer a crash pad back in the early 90s when bouldering experienced its first bout of popularity. Since those days, the growth in bouldering has exploded, and crash pads have become larger, more feature-laden and, not surprisingly, more expensive. In fact, some pads are so costly that many new climbers may have second thoughts about taking up bouldering.

In hopes of minimizing this economic hurdle, Metolius has introduced the Basic Pad. Based on their iconic and best-selling Session II pad, the Basic features the same ankle-shielding mid-size dimensions (open size: 36" x 48" x 4"), but eschews some features to achieve a more accessible price. You still get the same protective and easy-to-fold angled hinge, comfy shoulder straps, waist belt and suitcase-style carry handles. Where the Basic really diverges from the Session II is with its less complex closure. The Basic uses a single unbreakable aluminum buckle rather than the Sessions II's elaborate flap system. The Basic also lacks the sewn-in carpet patch for cleaning shoes. These minor tweaks allow the Metolius to retail the pad for a mind-blowing $129 US.

At this price, the Basic is clearly an excellent choice for new boulderers, but it will also appeal to more experienced pebble-wrestlers looking for a second (or third) pad to help protect complex landings.

Are there any drawbacks to the Basic's stripped-down design? Well, some might note that the simple closure prevents the pad from being used as a pack (shoes and chalk buckets will fall from the open bottom), but in my experience, most boulderers carry a small pack or satchel for transporting these bouldering essentials. And for most boulders, the cost savings easily offset this minor trade-off.

So, if you are a new climber looking to get into bouldering or a grizzled veteran who remembers climbing at Hueco before the access restriction, consider the Basic Pad. It will get the job done and will leave enough money in your wallet for multiple post-session beers.

You can find out more about the Metolius Basic Pad and other great Metolius products at www.metoliusclimbing.com.

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