Looking for the best climbing chalk bag or bucket? These are our favorites and runner ups.

We’ve been on a quest for the perfect chalk bag for the past ten years (wow.. has it been ten years already?). We mostly boulder and occasionally sport climb and have used a combination of chalk bags and chalk buckets. Whether you lean more toward form or function, we have you covered.

Pro Tip: If you’re prone to losing your chalk bags, keep a small tile or airpod in them.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: August 5, 2024

The Best Chalk Buckets

The Best Chalk Bags

When we travel to climb, we typically bring a chalk bag since it takes up less space and helps us travel lighter.

The Best Climbing Chalk

Now that we’ve shared our favorite chalk bags and buckets, let’s talk about the chalk that goes inside.

• Black Diamond White Gold – great on plastic and rock.
• Friction Labs Unicorn Dust – superior drying power and a longer-lasting grip
• Trango Gunpowder – known for its fine, evenly distributed texture
• Metolius Super Chalk – best value and great for people who sweat heavily
• Magdust Chalk – everyone has been raving about this chalk, and we still need to try it. We’re trying to work through all our existing chalk first, but since we buy it in bulk, it might take some time.

More Chalk Bags and Buckets to Check Out

Here are some more well-loved chalk bags.

• Cotopaxi Halcon Chalk Bag
• Black Diamond Mojo Chalk Bag
• Static Waxed Canvas Chalk Bag
• Mammut Alpine Chalk Bag
• Prana Graphic Chalk Bag
• Sukoa Sports Chalk Bag
• Organic Climbing Chalk Bag
• Black Diamond Mojo Chalk
• Organic Climbing Lunch Bag Chalk Bucket – we’ve had this in the past, but don’t like that chalk sticks to the velcro.
• Static Ranger Chalk Bucket
• Rungne Craft Chalk Bucket

What to Look for in a Climbing Chalk Bag

Chalk Bag Size

Size matters. You want a big enough bag to hold a good amount of chalk (plus some extra space in case you need to chalk up quickly) but not so big that it’s annoying to carry.

• Small Bags: These lightweight and compact bags are easy to carry on your harness and ideal for sport climbing and indoor climbing, where you don’t need a lot of chalk.
• Medium Bags: Great for all-around use, including bouldering and longer climbs. They offer a balance between size and capacity, holding enough chalk for extended sessions without being too bulky.
• Large Bags (Buckets): Best for bouldering and group climbing sessions. Chalk buckets have a large opening and ample space for chalk, brushes, and other small items. You typically keep them on the ground rather than attached to your harness.

Chalk Bags vs Chalk Buckets

Chalk Bags are versatile for multiple climbing styles. They are compact and portable and can be attached to your harness for sport and trad climbing.

Chalk Buckets have a large capacity to hold more chalk, making them ideal for bouldering sessions. They often come with additional pockets and storage for brushes and other small items and have a stable base to stay upright.

We use a chalk bucket at the bouldering gym or the local crag, but when we travel, we carry a chalk bag to pack as light as possible.

Bag Shape

There are a few different shapes common among chalk bags:

Cylindrical Bags: These are the most common shapes for chalk bags. They provide a good balance of accessibility and capacity. The cylindrical shape allows for easy chalking and storage of chalk balls.

Tapered Bags: These bags have a wider top and narrower bottom, which helps keep the bag stable and prevents it from tipping over. They are ideal for climbers who prefer a bag that stays upright.

Chalk Buckets: Usually rectangular or cylindrical, chalk buckets are designed for bouldering. They offer a large opening and stable base, making it easy to dip your hands in and out.

Additional bag Features

These extra features will depend on personal preference and what items you like to keep with your chalk bag.

• Closure Mechanism: Look for a bag with a secure closure to prevent chalk spills. Common closures include drawstrings, roll-tops, and magnetic closures.
• Brush Holders: These loops or pockets are essential for carrying brushes to clean holds.
• Extra Pockets: Some chalk bags come with zippered pockets for small essentials like keys, money, or tape.
• Adjustable Belt and Straps if you want to wear your chalk bag around your waist.
• Material and Durability: Choose a bag made from durable, weather-resistant materials.
• Aesthetics and Personal Style: While functionality is key, the aesthetics can also be important.

What other climbing chalk bags and buckets do we need to check out next? Do you prefer a chalk bag or bucket?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later