| Grip | Palm-up, from below |
| Technique | Pull up/out, push with feet |
| Found at | Flakes, roofs, bulges |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
An undercling is a hold gripped from underneath, palm up, that you pull up and out on while pushing with your feet to create opposing tension. Underclings feel powerful once you get your body above them and are common under flakes, roofs, and bulges where the rock faces downward.
How to use one
Get your feet high, push against them, and pull up and out on the hold — then move your body above it to improve the angle.
Where you meet them
Under flakes, at the lip of a roof, and beneath bulges. See all hold types.
Frequently asked questions
What is an undercling?
An undercling is a downward-facing hold you grip from below with your palm up. You pull up and outward on it while pressing your feet into the rock, and the opposing tension between hands and feet holds you in place — most effective once your body rises above the hold.
How do you use an undercling?
Get your feet high and push against them while pulling up and out on the hold, then move your body up past it so the angle improves. Underclings reward strong core tension and good footwork rather than pure finger strength.
Where do you find underclings?
Wherever the rock faces downward — beneath flakes, at the lips of roofs, and under bulges. They're a staple of steep climbing and are often the key to establishing under or pulling through an overhang.
Sources
- Climbing grips — American Alpine Club