Routesetting
Our routesetters keep climbs fresh with frequent route and boulder updates — always aiming to challenge and inspire. Discover how our distinctive grading system operates.
Understanding Spot Grades
At The Spot, we use our own grading scale, called The Spot Scale. When we opened our first gym in 2002, we separated outdoor climbing grades and indoor climbing grades, allowing climbers to focus on the nuances of each style. If you’re curious how the difficulty of our routes compares, this chart translates our Spot grades into the popular V-Grade scale, developed by John “the Vermin” Sherman.
So how does The Spot Scale work? Every route has a number of red spots to tell you how difficult it is, ranging from 1 to 5 spots. Pluses and minuses added to the spots further distinguish difficulty. For example, a boulder problem graded as 1 spot is the easiest that we set, and roughly translates to VB. A boulder problem graded as 5+ spots is the hardest that we set, and roughly translates to V11.
How the Spot’s grading system translates to the V-Grade scale
- 1 spot roughly translates to VB
- 2 spots roughly translates to V0
- 3 spots minus (3-) roughly translates to V1
- 3 spots roughly translates to V2
- 3 spots plus (3+) roughly translates to V3 or V4
- 4 spots minus (4-) roughly translates to V4 or V5
- 4 spots roughly translates to V5 or V6
- 4 spots plus (4+) roughly translates to V6 or V7
- 5 spots minus (5-) roughly translates to V7 or V8
- 5 spots roughly translates to V9 or V10
- 5 spots plus (5+) roughly translates to V11
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Stay Connected and Find New Routes with Kaya
What is KAYA?
KAYA is an app that helps you track your climbing progress and connect with other climbers at The Spot. You’ll be able to see all the climbs that our routesetters create, log your attempts and sends, offer your opinions on routes, and even join fun challenges.
How do I find The Spot on KAYA?
After opening the KAYA app, you’ll be asked, “Where are you climbing?” You can search for The Spot Boulder, The Spot Denver, The Spot Golden, or The Spot Louisville. Make sure you “follow” us so that you never miss new routes!
How do I log an attempt or send?
KAYA has a useful guide here that will show you how to log attempts or sends for a climb. Track your progress, upload videos, and give feedback on your favorite routes.
