VOLX, the exclusive official supplier of IFSC-approved gearboxes
As of 2019, Volx Holds is proud to be the exclusive supplier of the IFSC (International Federation of Sport Climbing) approved speed holds. Meeting the strictest standards, these now iconic holds are essential for all official speed climbing competitions. They made their appearance at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games, confirming once again their importance in this fast-growing discipline.
A path to excellence and innovation
Speed climbing has had a fascinating history. Although the discipline really took off with the first World Climbing Championships in 1991, it has gone from strength to strength over the years. This development has accelerated with the structuring of the sport, largely thanks to the IFSC which, since 2007, has set strict standards for official competitions.
The official speedway, as we know it today, was conceptualised by Jacky Godoffe back in 2004. This innovation enabled the world's best athletes to compete on an identical course at every competition. Since then, exceptional climbers such as Qixin Zhong, Aleksandra Miroslaw and Samuel Watson have been constantly pushing back the limits, setting ever more impressive world records.
Approved plugs for exceptional performance
The design of speed grips is a real technical challenge. These holds, both hand and foot holds, must comply with precise dimensions and shapes defined by the IFSC. The climbing wall itself follows strict criteria, particularly in terms of slope and route configuration. For example, official speed climbing walls have a 5 degree gradient and are either 10 metres long (with 12 handholds and 8 footholds) or 15 metres long (with 20 handholds and 11 footholds).
The hand holds offer different types of grip, allowing athletes to vary their climbing techniques, while the foot holds, shaped like a half-sphere, provide essential support to maximise the speed of the climb. This specific combination is what makes these grips essential equipment for all speed competitions.
A fast-growing sport
Speed climbing took on a new dimension when it was included in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. This marked a turning point in the history of the sport, boosting its worldwide popularity. Since then, the discipline has continued to attract new enthusiasts, from amateurs to professionals, keen to push back the limits of speed and performance.
For clubs and organisations looking to comply with the requirements of official competitions, homologated speed systems offer the ideal solution. Whether for training or international events, you can be sure of using certified, reliable, high-performance equipment.
Ready for the challenge?
By Alex on 29/07/2024 in Tips & advice
