Q: I’m thinking of taking up rock climbing. Can you explain the difficulty rating system in free climbing so I have a better idea where to begin?
A: The Sierra Club System, introduced in 1937, categorizes terrain according to the techniques and physical difficulty encountered when rock climbing from Class 1 (basic hiking) to Class 5, where rock climbing begins in earnest, involving the use of a rope, belaying and protection (natural and artificial) against falling. The system was modified in the 1950s by adding a decimal to the Class 5 rating, known as the Yosemite Decimal System. The extended numbers can’t be defined precisely, but the general guidelines are as follows:
* 5.0-5.7: Where most novices begin; easy for experienced climbers.
* 5.8-5.9: Where most weekend climbers become comfortable; employs specific rock climbing skills such as jamming, liebacks and manteling.
* 5.10: A dedicated weekend climber might attain this level.
* 5.11-5.14: True expert territory, demanding dedicated training, repeated working of routes and much natural ability.
(Source: Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills, 6th edition.)
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