ENGLEWOOD, CO – Adaptive Adventures, a leading nonprofit organization specializing in adaptive outdoor recreation, announces the debut of breakthrough audible climbing holds designed specifically for blind and visually impaired climbers. The innovative technology was first trialed on July 23rd at Movement Englewood, marking a significant advancement in climbing accessibility.
“This represents a paradigm shift in how we think about inclusive climbing experiences,” says Chelsea Elder, Executive Director of Adaptive Adventures. “For the first time, visually impaired climbers can navigate routes independently using real-time sound cues, creating a more autonomous and empowering climbing experience.”
The audible climbing holds were developed through Adaptive Adventures’ Student Solutions Program in partnership with University of Maryland and Macy’s as part of a yearlong student-led engineering project. The prototype is a smart system that uses pressure-sensing technology to identify and activate only the next hold in the climbing sequence. This means that not all holds light up or make sound simultaneously, only the correct hold is highlighted, guiding the climber step by step. By using targeted sound cues and flashing lights on individual holds, the system allows climbers to navigate routes more independently and eliminates the need for constant verbal guidance from spotters.
The initial trial featured demonstrations with two visually impaired adaptive athletes who successfully scaled climbing routes using the sound-guided system. Early feedback indicates the technology significantly enhances the climbing experience by providing greater independence and confidence on the wall.
“We believe innovation should serve inclusion,” adds Craig DeMartino, National Climbing Manager at Adaptive Adventures. “These audible holds represent the intersection of engineering excellence and accessibility advocacy, proving that adaptive recreation can drive technological advancement across the entire climbing industry.”
The project demonstrates the climbing industry’s growing commitment to accessibility, following increased awareness around adaptive climbing and Paralympic sport recognition. With over 7 million Americans living with visual impairments, the potential market impact extends well beyond adaptive athletics.
Adaptive Adventures plans to refine the technology based on trial feedback and explore partnerships with climbing gym chains and hold manufacturers for broader distribution. The organization is also investigating applications for other adaptive populations and outdoor climbing scenarios.
About Adaptive Adventures: Adaptive Adventures is a national 501c3 non-profit, headquartered in Colorado, that provides life-changing outdoor recreation experiences for children, adults, and veterans with physical disabilities and their families. Through innovative programs including adaptive cycling, climbing, water sports and skiing, the organization serves thousands of participants annually across Colorado and 18 satellite locations nationwide.
For more information about the audible climbing holds project or Adaptive Adventures programs, visit adaptiveadventures.org or contact them at info@adaptiveadventures.org or (303) 679-2770.
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