Picking the Perfect Crux Stick for Your Climbing Adventures

Picking the Perfect Crux Stick for Your Climbing Adventures

Lightweight and Portable Design for Carrying Convenience

Having the right gear can make or break your climbing experience. Lugging around heavy, unwieldy equipment is the last thing you want when trying to focus on the rock face. That’s why when it comes to climbing sticks, portability and lightweight construction are key.

The Crux 600 stick nails both of these factors, making it an excellent option for climbers who value easy transport. At just over 2 pounds, it won’t weigh down your pack or tire out your arms during approaches. The three-section aluminum design allows the stick to collapse down to a mere 18 inches when not in use. Just extend the sections out when you reach the tree and lock them securely into place with the quick-twist cam levers.

Compared to bulkier or heavier sticks using materials like steel or wood, the aluminum build shaves off ounces while remaining sturdy. The tube-style format also helps decrease weight while maximizing strength and stiffness when fully expanded.

Don’t be fooled by the light weight though. The aircraft grade aluminum alloy is plenty rigid to provide a stable platform for ascending trees or accessing those distant footholds. The tubing includes a ribbed interior construction for enhancing support and torsional resistance.

When setting up for a climb, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly the Crux 600 transitions from your pack to the tree. No more struggling with uncooperative sticks that seem determined to get tangled or stuck while assembling them. The smooth action of the cam locks and telescoping sections make installation intuitive.

The compact size while broken down also provides more flexibility in how you carry and transport the sticks. You can easily lash them to the exterior of your pack using the included straps. Or stash them inside your pack taking up minimal room. The short packed length fits well in many pack models without protruding excessively.

All in all, the Crux 600 stick offers an ideal blend of sturdiness and packability. The lightweight aluminum build and collapsible design make carrying and setting up the sticks a breeze, letting you focus your energy on the climb ahead. If you’re looking for climbing sticks that won’t weigh you down, the Crux 600 is an excellent option worth considering.

Simple and Rugged Construction Built to Withstand the Elements

When you’re out on the rock face battling the elements during an ascent, the last thing you want is gear that can’t hold up to the conditions. Your equipment needs to be able to handle whatever the environment throws at it from rain and snow to gusty winds and extreme temperatures. The Crux 600 stick is purpose-built for this rugged durability, giving you one less thing to worry about during your climb.

The foundation of the stick’s brawny construction is the aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum alloy. This metal is valued for its strength properties and resilience against corrosion. The tubing features a thickness designed to provide stability without excess weight. Durable anodized finishing further enhances corrosion and abrasion resistance.

Exposed metal surfaces often take the brunt of the punishment on climbing gear. Rock scrapes, gear clashes, and general wear and tear can lead to scratches, dents, and oxidation. The anodized layer helps shield the aluminum surface from this damage. It creates a harder, inert barrier minimizing the direct impact on the base material. This treatment both protects the finish and maintains the structural integrity.

The cam locks and twist knobs also employ rugged designs able to endure life in the vertical world. Made from a glass-filled composite resistant to cracking and breaking, they provide a secure grip for easy operation even with gloves on cold days. The cams and teeth mesh smoothly to prevent jamming while keeping the tube sections locked in place.

Don’t let the sleek silhouette fool you either. The streamlined profile is achieved through thoughtful engineering, not flimsy construction. The wall thickness and ribbed interior structure lend stability and torsional stiffness when fully expanded. At 6.8 pounds, the Crux 600 offers robust support and makes for a secure standing platform when in use.

The stick hardware effectively sheds dirt, debris, and moisture thanks to the smooth exterior and anti-corrosion treatments. But keeping your gear in top shape requires additional maintenance on your part as well. Be sure to periodically clean off any grease or grime and lubricate the lock mechanisms. Avoid cramming the sticks too tightly in your pack which can lead to denting and paint chipping over time.

With care and maintenance, the Crux 600 stick will provide seasons of reliable performance even with regular exposure to the elements. The rugged build can handle the cliffs, the weather, and the rowdy falls. Focus on your footwork and leave the durability worries to your gear.

Versatile Extended Length Perfect for Reaching Distant Holds

One of the keys to successful climbing is having the right tools to execute your desired technique and employ optimal form. For trad climbers, an extendable stick like the Crux 600 provides valuable reach and versatility to make distant holds accessible.

With its three-section aluminum shaft, the Crux 600 provides an impressive fully expanded length of 60 inches. Once assembled and firmly planted against a tree, this gives you an extra 5 feet of extended reach from the ground. Those last few feet toward a distant handhold or foothold can often mean the difference between an clean ascent and taking a whipper.

The extended length allows you to maintain better position and technique too. Reaching from an off-balance stance is a recipe for trouble. The Crux stick essentially brings the hold within your normal reach, letting you maintain solid footing and good form.

Having a full 60 inches of extension also keeps you safer by minimizing uncontrolled pendulum swings. Think of the stick as your ground anchor as you work through the crux, moving sequentially from hold to hold. With a longer stick, traversing sideways doesn’t require huge momentum-building swings to reach the next handhold.

For particularly long reaches above head height, the superior leverage can help take some strain off your shoulders compared to reaching from flat ground. This helps fend off pump and fatigue, especially on overhanging sections or roofs.

The versatile length adjustments allow you to customize the stick height based on the climb and your needs. Extend it to the full 60 inches for maximum reach. Or use a mid-level height of around 36-42 inches if you only need a modest boost. For short routes or bouldering problems, collapse it down for an out-of-the-way 18 inch height.

The lightweight aluminum is key to harnessing the benefits of the long reach too. A heavy steel rod of the same length would be unwieldy and tiresome to work with. The 2 pound aluminum stick provides the ideal combination of length and weight.

Don’t let shorter sticks limit your climbing goals. The Crux 600 brings distant holds within grasp, helps improve form and technique, and minimizes uncontrolled swings. Reach your full potential with the Crux!

Rubberized Grips Provide Control No Matter the Conditions

Maintaining a controlled grip on your climbing gear is crucial, especially in wet weather or high-altitude conditions where numb fingers become a real hazard. The last thing you want is for a stick to go slipping through your grasps mid-climb.

That’s why the Crux 600 features thoughtfully designed rubberized grips on the adjustable twist locks. The textured rubber coating gives you a positively secure hold, even when wearing gloves or dealing with sweaty palms. This purposeful handle shape and tactile surface helps you get a firm handle for confident twisting and adjustments.

The rubber also excels at providing grip in the wet. Avoid the nightmare scenario of fumbling with slick metal levers should you get caught in rain. The water-resistant grip material retains friction and handling even when soaked through.

High altitude pursuits come with their own set of hand hazards thanks to frigid temperatures. Numb fingers quickly lose dexterity and control. The generous shape and tacky texture on the Crux 600 handles are easy to manipulate even with minimal feeling in your fingertips.

When you’re hundreds of feet off the deck is no time for slippery mishaps. The advantage of the Crux’s ergonomic grip design really shines through compared to basic stick models with hard, cold metal levers.

The rubber coating also helps protect the adjustment mechanism internals by keeping out grit, grease, and grime. Less particle infiltration means smoother operation and enhanced longevity.

Don’t underestimate the importance of stick handles in maintaining controlled and confident use. It’s easy to mismanage sticks with tiny, slippery lever grasps leading to dangerous fumbles or drops. The Crux 600 practically locks into your hand for foolproof handling. Its grip ergonomics provide that extra dose of security when you need it most.

Your hands have enough to manage during a challenging climb without also battling uncooperative gear. Choose sticks like the Crux 600 with grip-enhancing handles purpose-built to work with your hands, not against them.

Integrated Brush for Removing Debris from Holds

While you want to keep your gear clean, it’s arguably even more important to keep the rock clean. Chalk dust, dirt, lichens, and other debris can compromise your ability to get a solid grip on holds, creating dangerous slip hazards.

That’s why the integrated brush on the Crux 600 stick is such a useful innovation. Having this built-in cleaning tool eliminates the need to pack a separate brush that’s just one more piece of gear to wrangle.

Simply twist off the bottom section of the stick to access the firm nylon bristles ideal for scrubbing off grime from hand and footholds. Give suspect holds a quick once-over before committing to them to avoid any insecure slips.

The bristles have just the right stiffness to dislodge debris without feeling overly abrasive on skin. Use the sides for broader cleaning swipes or the tip for precise spot cleaning in cracks and pockets.

Being able to clean as you climb makes the process smoother compared to having a belayer toss up a brush bottled on their harness. Clean with precision right where you need it without the toss and retrieval interruptions.

The ergonomic handle gives you a comfortable secure grip so you can really bear down and scour caked-on gunk when necessary. No need to gingerly scrub with just your fingertips like when using a small fold-up brush.

Don’t underestimate the importance of fresh, chalked-up holds when dialing in the crux sequence. Stepping up to a dirty hold you didn’t notice can throw you off in a hurry. Quick cleaning stops with the Crux 600 brush can make all the difference.

The convenient built-in design eliminates the need to fuss with carabiners, pockets, or lanyards to manage a separate brush. Just twist, scrub, and twist again to stow it within your stick.

Clean climbing makes for confident climbing. Tick your project with greater ease using the integrated brush on the Crux 600 to quickly clear debris and chalk-up holds as you climb.

Lanyard for Keeping Your Stick Secure While Climbing

One of the handiest features of the Crux 600 stick is the included lanyard for keeping the stick tethered to the tree or your harness. This prevents any potentially dangerous drops as you work through your ascent.

Simply clip the lanyard carabiner through the hole integrated into the upper tube section. Attach the other end to a gear loop on your harness or wrap it around the back of the tree before expanding the stick.

This secure connection gives you some peace of mind that an accidental slip won’t send the stick tumbling down to impale the ground or strike your belayer. The last thing you want while pushing your limits on a route is to have dropped equipment on your mind.

The tether also allows you to temporarily stow the stick as you climb past it to access a higher anchor point before retrieving it. Simply unclip the carabiner from your harness and let the stick dangle safely out of the way while you move upwards.

For steep overhung routes, you can use the tether to help stabilize the stick angle when fully extended. Clip the lanyard to both your harness and higher points on the tree to create downward tension. This prevents the stick from wanting to tilt backwards as you load weight onto it on steep terrain.

The versatility of having the stick secured by a lanyard expands your options for creative temporary stowage as needed. And it provides welcome peace of mind knowing a slip won’t send your equipment flying down range.

Compact and lightweight, the included lanyard doesn’t add much bulk or weight to your kit. But it delivers big benefits in safeguarding against drops. Having your stick firmly leashed gives you one less risk factor to obsess over during intense climbing focus.

Sticks tethered by lanyards exemplify smart climbing. Don’t chance losing your gear or endangering your belayer due to an accidental slip. The Crux 600 lanyard offers cheap climbing insurance you’ll be glad to have.

Made from Strong and Stiff Aluminum Alloy

Having full confidence in your equipment is critical for keeping your head in the game when free soloing or pushing your grade limit. Gear that buckles, bends, or wobbles can quickly shatter your mental game.

That’s why the Crux 600 stick is constructed from ultra-rigid 6061 aluminum alloy tubing. This aircraft-grade aluminum provides an ideal balance of strength and stiffness in a lightweight package.

The high strength-to-weight ratio gives the Crux exceptional torsional rigidity when fully expanded. You can plant your full body weight on it without any unnerving flex or sag.

Thinner walled or lower grade aluminum tubing is more prone to buckling under heavy side-loading pressure. The Crux 600 maintains its composure thanks to intelligently designed wall thickness and ribbed interior construction.

High torsional rigidity prevents any disconcerting rotation or twisting forces when weighted. You want your stick solid as a rock, not wobbling precariously as you move past it.

The rigidity also allows you to use the Crux as a reliable arm to help position your body on overhangs. Planting it into corners or wedging it into cracks lets you post your body weight as you work out moves.

Aluminum naturally possesses high strength characteristics compared to materials like plastic or wood. Its very high strength-to-density ratio is why aluminum became popular in aircraft and high-performance applications.

This lightweight metal strikes the perfect balance for climbing stick construction. It has the compressive strength to support your full mass without bending. And the stiffness to remain rock-solid stable when you need it most.

Flimsy, unstable sticks have no place in your climbing kit when you’re on exposed routes. Choose rigid, burly aluminum models like the Crux 600 for the peace of mind that your gear will perform.

Multiple Sizes Available to Match Your Height and Reach

Finding a climbing stick matched to your body dimensions makes it easier to reap the benefits of a height assist for balance and extended reach.

That’s why Crux offers the 600 model in three collapsed lengths: 18, 21, and 24 inches. This lets you select the option best suited for your height and arm span.

Theregular 18 inch collapsed length works well for most climbers in the 5’8″ to 6′ range. Taller climbers may opt for the 21″ model to reduce how much they have to hunch when using the stick fully extended.

For shorter climbers, the 24″ collapsed option helps ensure the stick can safely reach the ground and stabilize when fully extended. No need to precariously perch on tiptoes trying to get enough height.

The varying collapsed lengths pack the same 60 inches of extended reach. So no compromise there. You still get the full versatility of 5 feet of extension regardless of which compacted size you choose.

This range of size options helps you customize the Crux 600 to your body type. Your height, arm span, and general build should inform which compact length best matches your needs.

An oversized stick forces you assume awkward postures when using it fully expanded. But choosing one too short can create stability and balance issues. Dial in the perfect fit with Crux’s range of collapsed sizes.

Keep in mind your ape index as well. Those with wingspans greater than their height may want to size up on the collapsed length to maximize their reach potential.

Finding your Goldilocks stick that’s “just right” for your body makes it easier and safer to leverage the benefits. Get the right tool for your proportions with Crux’s range of smartly designed size options.

Anodized Finish for Superior Corrosion Resistance

The outdoor environment can be harsh on climbing equipment, with exposure to sun, moisture, and grit steadily degrading gear. But the Crux 600 stick is ready for this abuse thanks to its rugged anodized finish.

Anodization provides a protective oxide layer on the aluminum surface that acts as a barrier to corrosion. This hard, inert finish helps prevent pitting, oxidation, and other elemental damage over years of use.

Aluminum climbing sticks without anodizing will quickly show signs of corrosion and weathering. The anodized layer keeps the Crux 600 looking factory fresh season after season.

This finish provides excellent abrasion and scratch resistance as well. The sticks avoid the dings, scrapes and unsightly scratches that can occur when bashing against rock and gear during use and transport.

Anodization also improves paint adhesion on the tube surface. Logos, labels and identifying marks stay crisp instead of flaking or fading over time like on unfinished aluminum.

The manufacturing process electrifies the aluminum surface to open up pores that are then injected with the anodic oxide. This creates a much stronger molecular bond compared to applied paints or plating.

The resultant finish won’t chip, bubble or peel like a top-coat. It becomes an integral protective barrier able to withstand heavy use and abuse.

And anodization provides this lifetime of enhanced protection without adding much weight or material. The oxide layer measures just microns thick but provides outsized durability benefits.

Choose anodized aluminum sticks like the Crux 600 when longevity and resilience matter. The finish will maintain its just-purchased look even after seasons of hard vertical use. Anodization represents smart engineering for real-world gear endurance.

Hundreds of Satisfied Customers Over the Years

When researching new climbing gear, there’s nothing more reassuring than hearing rave reviews from fellow users. For the Crux 600 stick, the praise from climbers has been overwhelmingly positive year after year.

With hundreds of satisfied customers spanning over a decade, the Crux 600 has earned its reputation as a beloved stick among trad climbers. Reading the reviews shows how it has become a trusted tool for all skill levels.

From gym climbers using it for reach training to big wall aficionados on multi-day ascents, the Crux receives kudos for its versatility and durability. The lightweight design makes it a favorite for long approaches and multi-pitch routes.

Fans consistently cite the secure twist-lock adjustments and rubberized grips as standout features. The smooth locking cams and ergonomic handles inspire confidence season after season.

The made-in-USA quality earns consistent praise as well. Customers remark how the thoughtful construction and rigidity justify the premium price tag.

Experienced climbers recommend the Crux 600 as the ideal stick to grow with you from beginner to expert. The customizable length lets you continue upping your reach as technique improves.

For first-time buyers debating which stick to purchase, Crux owners universally vouch for the 600 as a worthwhile investment. They reassure hesitant climbers that the refined design is well worth the price.

Reading the overwhelmingly positive Crux 600 reviews shows why it remains a top-selling model year after year. Experienced climbers continue to rave about its performance, making it an easy choice for new buyers. With that much affirmation from passionate users, it’s hard to go wrong trusting the Crux.

Thoughtful Design Touches for Improved Usability

It’s the little design details that transform good gear into great gear. The Crux 600 stick displays the refinement and thoughtful functionality that separates the top shelf from the middling.

Subtle touches throughout the stick enhance the user experience and boost convenience. From the ergonomic grips to the integrated lanyard, small flourishes make a cumulative big impact.

Take the angled shaft ends that allow the sections to smoothly telescope when adjusting length. Flat ends can catch and bind when extending the stick. The Crux’s angled tips slide effortlessly.

The anti-twist stability fins also demonstrate clever engineering. These ridges along the lower tubes prevent unwanted rotation within each segment. This attention to detail enhances rigidity and stability when loading the stick.

The brushed aluminum finish looks great and minimizes visible scuffs and scratches. Contrast that to the oil canning and dents prominent on bare aluminum. It’s a subtle touch but keeps the Crux looking its best.

The stick profile balances slimness with stability. A beefy build may seem reassuring but adds weight and packing inconvenience. Crux nails the sweet spot of compact yet sturdy.

From the grippy twisting handles to the supple climber-friendly lanyard, small touches optimize the experience. These purposeful design choices reflect the Crux 600’s premium pedigree.

Thoughtfully designed sticks like the Crux 600 bring joy and convenience to every use. When refined details come together into a cohesive whole, you get an elevated user experience that keeps you smiling pitch after pitch.

Backed by Crux’s Renowned Customer Service

Buying quality gear from a company that stands behind their products makes all the difference for customer confidence and satisfaction. That’s what you get with Crux’s climbing equipment and acclaimed customer service.

The Wisconsin-based company has earned a sterling reputation for taking care of their customers and handling any product issues with understanding and urgency.

Should any problem arise with materials or workmanship, the knowledgeable US-based support team aims to make it right. Many reviewers praise Crux’s responsive service and overall buying experience.

The company also offers a 30-day return policy on unused gear, allowing you to exchange for a different size/model if the initial choice doesn’t fit your needs.

Crux maintains sufficient US-based inventory to ship replacement parts and accessories promptly. You won’t wait weeks for vital components to arrive from overseas.

The brand stands behind their products and reassures customers who expect US quality. You’re not dealing with some faceless entity when purchasing Crux gear.

Many climbing brands source from overseas factories which can complicate customer service. With Crux, their Wisconsin HQ gives them tighter quality control and supply chain transparency.

Great gear deserves great service backing it up. Crux earns trust by providing the support and assurance customers need when spending hard-earned dollars. Know you’ve got a committed team in your corner when you buy Crux.

Affordably Priced Despite Premium Construction

Finding climbing gear that hits the sweet spot between performance and price can be tricky. You want quality equipment without emptying your wallet. The Crux 600 offers an appealing balance of thoughtful design and reasonable cost.

Built in the USA with aircraft-grade aluminum and premium components, the Crux 600 delivers excellence you’d expect at a much higher price point.

But thanks to their direct-to-consumer factory model, Crux avoids dealer markups and keeps costs reasonable. Passing savings to climbers allows more people to access well-made gear.

Of course cheaper overseas sticks available online may seem tempting. But hidden quality compromises quickly reveal themselves through sloppy welds, poor fit and finish, and flimsy materials.

The Crux 600 justifies its price through purposeful design choices that boost performance. From the grippy handles to the secure cams, smart elements enhance the experience.

For budget-minded climbers, the Crux 600 split packs present the best value. Grab a pair of sticks versus shelling out for a quad pack to keep costs down while covering your essential needs.

While cheaper sticks lure in shoppers with lower digits, hidden costs emerge when poor gear fails you at the crag. A quality stick like the Crux 600 delivers lasting value and spares you future upgrade costs.

The Crux brand focuses on climbers’ needs rather than dealers’ margins. Invest wisely at a fair price with their purpose-built sticks. You get premium pedigree without the outrageous upcharges.

Try The Crux 600 Stick for Your Next Climbing Adventure

When prepping your gear bag for the upcoming crag or gym session, be sure to include the Crux 600 stick to boost your performance and safety.

The Crux 600 earns its reputation as a top traditionally stick thanks to intelligent design that enhances every climbing application.

Trad climbers will appreciate the lightweight packability on approaches, the smooth twist locks for secure height adjustments, and the extended reach for accessing distant holds.

In the gym, the Crux 600 excels at helping dial in technique and mastering reachy sequences during targeted training.

The adjustable length accommodates climbers of all heights. Find the collapsed size that best matches your body type for optimized control and stability.

Take advantage of the rare quality Crux offers at a reasonable made-in-America price. Investing in a premium stick brings long-term value compared to flimsy alternatives.

Don’t miss the key features that earned the Crux its sterling reputation. The grippy handles provide slip-free control in all conditions. The sturdy aluminum construction delivers rock solid stability pitch after pitch.

Wherever your climbing takes you, bring the Crux 600 along to step up your game. You’ll quickly discover why dedicated climbers consistently recommend Crux sticks as smart investments that deliver.

The next time your reach comes up just inches short on a crux sequence, you’ll be glad you’ve got the versatile Crux 600 in your rack. Let it be your secret weapon for unlocking your climbing potential.