| Type | Footwork technique |
| Pulls with | Top of the toes/foot |
| Best on | Steep & overhanging rock |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
A toe hook is a technique where you pull with the top of your toes and foot against a hold or feature, using the foot like a hand to maintain tension on steep and overhanging climbing. It’s often paired with a heel hook on the other foot to stop the body swinging out on roofs.
How it works
Hook the top of the foot against a feature and pull, adding tension that keeps you from cutting loose on steep rock.
Toe hook vs heel hook
The heel hook pulls the opposite way; the two combine to lock onto a roof. See heel vs toe hook.
Where to use it
Overhangs, aretes, and roof lips.
Frequently asked questions
What is a toe hook?
A toe hook is when you hook the top of your toes and the upper surface of your foot against a hold, volume, or edge and pull, using the foot to add tension. It keeps your body from swinging away from the wall on steep terrain.
What's the difference between a toe hook and a heel hook?
A heel hook pulls with the back of the heel; a toe hook pulls with the top of the foot, in the opposite direction. They're complementary — climbers often use a heel hook on one foot and a toe hook on the other to lock the body onto a roof.
When do you use a toe hook?
On overhanging and roof climbing, where keeping your feet engaged stops you swinging off (cutting loose). Toe hooks shine around aretes, volumes, and the lips of roofs where there's a feature to catch the top of the foot.
Sources
- Climbing movement — American Alpine Club