With this degree project we have executed a design process to develop climbing holds, with focus on aesthetics and ergonomics through a sustainable material. Climbing as a sport is continuously growing more and more by each year. Studies show that climbing has positive effects on stress and depression, as well as improving your self-confidence and self-esteem. We have seen a need in improving the aesthetics, ergonomics and materials of the climbing holds represented on the market. Through studies of aesthetics, colour and form we have laid a ground to evolve the aesthetics of climbing holds. The majority of all climbing holds on the market today are made of thermosetting plastics, which are bad for the environment because of the difficulties of recycling. We have explored the possibilities of replacing these thermosets with a material that has similar properties but with a lower environmental impact. 

We present eight different climbing holds with dynamic shapes inspired by architecture and climbers' own experiences from climbing. We have through our design process based the final result on ergonomic facts and literature. We have chosen to conceptualise one of these prototypes with birch plywood which has a high durability. The effects of the different layers to the plywood gives the climbing hold a unique aesthetic touch.