A Look Back: February

Hot SendsUSA Climbing Bouldering Nationals:Alex Puccio regains her crown, Nathaniel Colemen rides a dark horse, and the two major US phenoms Ashima Shiraishi and Kai Lightner find the podium in…

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UMN: Getting High

In an effort to be more positive in the New Year, I wanted to write a few articles describing things I like, instead of those that aggravate me.  But what…

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Crank Book Review: Vertical Mind

This book is fantastic.  I have read many books trying to help me be a better climber both in body and mind.  I am working on the long version of…

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CTC Stage 5: Power

After a year of working Stages 1 through 4, I hope you guys are ready for Stage 5!POWER UP!!!This is another great stage to really see how far you have…

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A Look Back: January 2017

Hot SendsLaura Rogora - La Gasparata, 5.14c:Not only was this route a first ascent in the La cueva area of Collepardo, Italy, but it is now the hardest first ascent by…

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Ode to a Climbing Hold

I, Justin Meserve, am a poser.  I spend easily 80% of my climbing time in the comfort of a gym, pulling on plastic shapes devised by artists, sadists, or both.…

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Crank Media Review: Better Than Chocolate

Better than Chocolate is an ode to Swiss Bouldering, showcasing the location's famous hard lines.  The film bounces back and forth between interstitial interviews and climber commentary to footage of…

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Crank Media Review: Return2Sender

Finally, Justin reviews a film that’s not about bouldering.  Do you love hand jams and finger locks?  Is Odub your favorite rapper?  Do you have to buy a new roll…

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Crank Media Review: Rapper Kris ‘Odub’ Hampton

In the words of Monty Python, 'and now for something completely different'. Did you know people write rap music about climbing?  There are at least 2 rappers I know of,…

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