Quick Comparison: The V-Scale (V0–V17) is dominant in North America, while the Font Scale (1A–9A) is the European standard. Understanding both is essential for traveling climbers.
Understanding Bouldering Grade Systems
Bouldering grades are notoriously subjective. A "soft" V5 in one gym might feel like a "hard" V7 in another. However, two primary systems rule the world: the Hueco (V-Scale) and the Fontainebleau (Font) scale.
The V-Scale (Hueco)
Developed by John "Vermin" Sherman in the late 1980s at Hueco Tanks, Texas, this scale is open-ended. It starts at V0 (roughly equivalent to 4 in Font) and currently goes up to V17 (Burden of Dreams).
The Font Scale
Originating in the forest of Fontainebleau, France, this scale uses numbers, letters (a, b, c), and a "+" suffix. It is often considered more granular than the V-Scale, especially at the higher ends.
| V-Scale | Font Scale | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| V0 | 4 | Beginner |
| V3 | 6A/6A+ | Intermediate |
| V5 | 6C/6C+ | Advanced |
| V7 | 7A+ | Expert |
| V10 | 7C+ | Elite |
GoClimbr handles these conversions automatically in your logbook, so no matter where you climb, your statistics remain consistent.
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