Chalk Dilemma
Unlock this article and more benefits with 40% off.
Already have an Outside Account? Sign in
40% Off Outside+.
$4.99/month $2.99/month*
Get the one subscription to fuel all your adventures.
- Map your next adventure with our premium GPS apps: Gaia GPS Premium and Trailforks Pro.
- Read unlimited digital content from 15+ brands, including Outside Magazine, Triathlete, Ski, Trail Runner, and VeloNews.
- Watch 600+ hours of endurance challenges, cycling and skiing action, and travel documentaries.
- Learn from the pros with expert-led online courses.
*Outside memberships are billed annually. Print subscriptions available to U.S. residents only. You may cancel your membership at anytime, but no refunds will be issued for payments already made. Upon cancellation, you will have access to your membership through the end of your paid year. More Details
“I suffer from really bad cracked skin on my hands and under my nails. Using climbing chalk makes my condition worse. Is there any chalk out there that isn’t so bad for my dry hands?”
Chalk’s purpose is to dry your hands, so you won’t find a chalk that is kind to your skin. Some chalks do have an antiperspirant additive. Avoiding chalk with such additives is a start, but how you care for your hands off the rock is where you can make a real difference. For starters, wear belay gloves. Gloves will keep dirt and rope gack from getting on your hands and further drying them out. When the climbing day is over, wash your hands and apply moisturizer. Moisturize throughout the day, and slather up right before bed.
This Gear Guy question appeared in Rock and Ice issue 248 (February 2018).
Got a question? Email: rockandicegearguy@gmail.com
Also Read