Treadwall Kore 6ft
Overall Rating: ★★★★★
MSRP: $7,800 USD
Manufacturer: Treadwall Fitness
Would I purchase this product again? Yes, assuming I find a place to fit it.
Review:
Treadwall Fitness is a small company based in Massachusetts that makes a rotating climbing wall (It’s basically a treadmill for Rock Climbing!)
I’ve had the pleasure of climbing on several Treadwalls over the years, and this review focuses specifically on the Treadwall Kore. With dimensions of 6 feet wide and 11 feet tall, I truly believe this is one of the best tools for training technique and endurance for a dedicated rope climbing.
The climbing surface extends 20 feet in length, allowing you to simulate a 100-foot pitch by completing five rotations of the wall. There are various philosophies surrounding Treadwall training, many of which have been well-documented by others; I’ll link to some resources below.
One of the features I particularly enjoy is the ability to set multiple routes and link them together for a full-length climb.
Designed for home use, this Treadwall differs from those found in commercial climbing gyms. A notable feature is the adjustable angle, which you can modify using jacks to create a steeper incline. This machine can be set to angles ranging from 5 to 35 degrees overhung—more than enough to really get your pump going! The commercial models can change the angle with the simple pull of a lever.
All treadwalls have an Autostop, essentially what that does is stop your feet from going off the bottom of the machine. The best way to use this is to set the speed slightly faster than you are going to climb, and then every move you make let your feet hit the autostop, which will maximize the space above you for climbing, you can also use the autostop to chalk up and rest. Definitely use the autostop as a tool, not as a safety feature!
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
Very well built (made in America).
Great for endurance climbing.
Freestanding (don’t need to have it bolted down).
CONS:
Probably not the right tool for the dedicated boulder.
Route setting can take some practice.
Sizing diagram courtesy of the Treadwall Website.
Will it fit in my space:
The Treadwall Kore comes in two different heights, the 10ft version will fit under 8ft ceilings, and the 11ft version will fit under 9ft ceilings. It’s worth noting that if you’re over 6ft tall, the 10ft version may feel space-constrained.
Final thoughts:
If you’re building a training facility at your home the Treadwall is a great tool for those that are looking to make the most of all small space, or are very focused on route climbing endurance. For the hard charger looking to climb hard 5.13 it can feel difficult to use the treadwall as a correct tool, but with some quality route setting and being willing to force some movement, it’s definitely possible to use it as the great tool that it is!
Training Resources:
Rob Pizem Training: https://pizem.blogspot.com/2014/01/treadwall-training-with-piz-training.html
Power Endurance Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq6_zqeZgEw&ab_channel=TreadwallFitness
Strength and Power Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lysHU3-iu00&ab_channel=TreadwallFitness
