| Shape | Inside corner (open book) |
| Opposite of | Arete (outward edge) |
| Key techniques | Stemming, layback, jamming |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
A dihedral is an inside corner where two rock faces meet at an angle, like the open pages of a book — also called a corner or open book. Climbers ascend dihedrals using opposing pressure between the two walls, with techniques such as stemming, laybacking, and jamming any crack in the corner.
How you climb one
Stemming between the two faces, laybacking a corner crack, or jamming it all work — and bridging across the corner often gives a rest.
Dihedral vs arete
A dihedral is a concave inside corner; an arete is a convex outward edge. When a corner widens enough to climb inside, it becomes a chimney.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dihedral in climbing?
A dihedral is an inside corner formed where two rock walls meet, resembling an open book. Climbers move up it by pressing against both faces, often using a crack in the corner. It's also called a corner or open book.
How do you climb a dihedral?
By using opposing pressure: stemming with a foot or hand pushing against each wall, laybacking a crack in the corner, or jamming if there's a crack. Good corner technique lets you rest by bridging between the walls.
What's the difference between a dihedral and a chimney?
A dihedral is an open corner you press against from the front; a chimney is a wider gap big enough to fit your whole body inside, climbed by pressing against opposing walls with your back and feet. A chimney is essentially a very wide, body-sized corner.
Sources
- Rock features and movement — American Alpine Club