Metolius Super Chalk Sock Review

For folks that need a healthy layer of chalk caked on their sweaty, trembling hands to feel safe above the last bolt, the Black Diamond Refillable Chalk Shot is a better choice, but if you're concerned about dust and mess while climbing indoors, the Metolius Chalk Sock is superior. If your gym is well vented and isn't a humid swamp, the thin layer of coverage you get from this chalk ball will do just fine.

Performance Comparison

Friction & Overall Feel

Only the finest powdery chalk can pass through the cloth of this chalk sock, so it comes filled with what we can only assume is finely crushed Metolius Super Chalk. Our most discerning testers feel the Super Chalk is the softest, silkiest feeling chalk, and several testers preferred a grittier texture. One could empty the sock and fill it with whatever brand they prefer, but if it's too chunky, it won't be able to pass through the cloth. The finer the chalk, the more likely it is to cake up on the holds, but since only a little chalk can pass through the sock when you squeeze it, we never found this to be a problem.

Coverage

Squeeze for squeeze and dip for dip, the Super Chalk Sock deposits less chalk on your hands than the BD Chalk Shot and all of the other chalk products in our review. If you're a sweaty gal or feller, this could be a problem. For those gifted with hands that don't ooze more grease than a pepperoni pizza, the chalk sock should be fine, and it'll make your chalk last way longer. This chalk sock only leaves the thinnest layer of chalk on your hands.

Mess

Since the Metolius Chalk Sock is less porous than the BD Shot, it makes less mess and keeps more chalk out of the air. The opening in the top is larger than that of the BD ball, making it easier to refill without spilling chalk all over the place. We suggest using a spoon or a scooper from an old Gatorade mix. The drawcord and cord lock will keep the chalk from spilling out of the top — just be sure not to overfill.

Value

A reusable chalk sock for $5? Yes, please! Considering that Metolius sells a non-refillable version for one dollar less, this is a no-brainer, get the one you can use again and again. The Metolius refillable chalk sock costs less than the BD version, and since it doles out less chalk at a time, you'll go through less chalk.

Conclusion

The Metolius Super Chalk Sock is a great choice if you mainly climb indoors, and even if you're fortunate enough to do most of your climbing out in the wild, it's good to have one on hand when crummy weather forces you inside. Many gyms ban the use of loose chalk anyway, and everyone will appreciate that lack of dust floating around during busy nights at the gym.