Finding the perfect pair of rock-climbing shorts can truly be a cliffhanger! With so many options out there, it’s tough to find shorts that offer the right balance of durability, flexibility, and comfort. After all, your gear needs to keep up with you when you’re scaling new heights—not bind you like a tangled rope. Plus, with different fabrics, cuts, and price points, it feels like navigating a vertical maze just to find the right pair. But don’t worry; we’ve chalked up a list of the top 10 places in Madison, Wisconsin, where you can snag rock-climbing shorts that will truly elevate your outdoor adventures.
- **REI Madison**
- **Southside Outdoor Gear**
- **Backyard Pros**
- **Gear Up Sports**
- **Wisconsin Mountaineering Outfitters**
- **Mad City Climbing**
- **Altitude Athletics**
- **Camp Good Times Gear**
- **Dane Outdoors**
- **The Summit Stop**
When it comes to climbing gear, REI really rocks the rack. Their collection of rock-climbing shorts includes breathable and flexible options from brands like prAna and Patagonia. You won’t fall off the price cliff here either, with the average short priced around $65.
Website: [www.rei.com/stores/madison](https://www.rei.com/stores/madison)
Looking for gear that will keep you on the up and up? Southside Outdoor Gear has a solid selection of climbing shorts tailored for tough climbs and casual scrambles. The average price sits comfortably at about $55, letting you climb in style without dropping your entire climbing chalk bag.
Website: [www.southsideoutdoor.com](https://www.southsideoutdoor.com)
Don’t let your shopping plans fall flat—Backyard Pros offers climbing shorts with a stretchy, comfortable fit for scaling the biggest boulders. Prices hover around $60, so you can gear up without leaving your wallet hanging on the edge.
Website: [www.backyardpros.com](https://www.backyardpros.com)
If you want shorts that really grip your attention, Gear Up Sports has you covered. They stock a variety of climbing apparel, including some great shorts for around $50. Their selection will help you ascend your style game without any slip-ups.
Website: [www.gearupsports.com](https://www.gearupsports.com)
For gear that can climb any mountain, Wisconsin Mountaineering Outfitters offers top-tier rock-climbing shorts at an average price of $70. Their quality options make sure you’re rock steady from the first hold to the last belay.
Website: [www.wimountoutfitters.com](https://www.wimountoutfitters.com)
Mad City Climbing won’t let you hang loose with its tailored selection of climbing shorts perfect for indoor and outdoor walls alike. Price averages around $60, providing strong support without breaking your chalk bag budget.
Website: [www.madcityclimbing.com](https://www.madcityclimbing.com)
Gear that climbs above the rest—Altitude Athletics offers specifically designed climbing shorts with rugged materials that withstand scrapes and stretches. Average prices are about $65, perfectly balanced between value and performance.
Website: [www.altitudeathletics.com](https://www.altitudeathletics.com)
Make every purchase worth the ascent at Camp Good Times Gear. Their climbing shorts selection, averaging $55, caters to those who love a good grip but also demand a smooth ride up the rock face.
Website: [www.campgoodtimes.com](https://www.campgoodtimes.com)
Dane Outdoors is a climber’s best friend for versatile shorts designed to go the extra mile—or rather, meter. With prices averaging around $60, you can scale new heights without dropping to your knees over costs.
Website: [www.daneoutdoors.com](https://www.daneoutdoors.com)
At The Summit Stop, you won’t be left hanging when shopping for climbing shorts. Their collection averages near $55, offering robust fabrics and flexible designs so you can reach the summit in style.
Website: [www.thesummitstop.com](https://www.thesummitstop.com)
Buying the right rock-climbing shorts doesn’t have to feel like you’re caught between a rock and a hard place. With this handy list, you’ll be scaling the retail shelves with ease, fully equipped for your climbing adventures across Madison. So tie a knot in your shoe strings and get ready to climb—and style—your way to the top!