Run the round

How to play Grade Ladder

Step 1

Climb one problem per grade, unlocking the next rung with each top.

Step 2

Judge the grade result against the scoring rule before anyone resets.

Step 3

Reset the grade setup, rotate evenly, and stop at the agreed finish condition.

Guide details

Run it cleanly

Scoring

How the result works

2-8 players, about 45-120 min at Climbing Gym. Pick turns, keep bouldering scoring visible, stop at target.

Example: Climb one problem per grade, unlocking the next rung with each top.

Host tip

Keep it clean

Changing the grade scoring call mid-round. Decide the grade result standard before the first turn.

Safety: Keep the grade play space clear, call close plays calmly, and stop if the setup feels unsafe.

Best for

Who it fits

2-8 who want a 45-120 min round.

Energy

Pace

High

Board Bouldering

Category Bouldering

Best for 2-8 who want a 45-120 min round.

Players 2-8

Time 45-120 min

Gear Climbing shoes, chalk, crash pads, and marked problems

Space Indoor bouldering gym or supervised boulder wall with pads

Energy High

Setup Start from Bouldering Board and tell the group the activity is Grade Ladder.

Twist it

Variations to try

Quick mode: play one short timer round, record the result, then decide rematch or switch.
Team mode: split into two teams and rotate turns so mixed skill stays playable.

Moment fit

Use it in these hubs

Grade Ladder also fits these setup-first pages when the group starts from the situation instead of the board.

Group share

Send the setup

We're playing Grade Ladder from Studboards. Climb one problem per grade, unlocking the next rung with each top. Fits: Players: 2-8 | Time: 45-120 min | Gear: Climbing shoes, chalk, crash pads, and marked problems Safety: Keep the grade play space clear, call close plays calmly, and stop if the setup feels unsafe. View Idea: https://www.studboards.com/sports/bouldering/bouldering-grade-ladder.html

Grade Ladder

Quick start.