SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/climb-vscale

What does the V-scale rate in climbing?

Boulder problem difficulty, from V0 upward.

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  1. Route height
  2. Climber weight
  3. Boulder problem difficulty ✔

Why: The V-scale rates the difficulty of boulder problems. V0 is a common entry grade and larger numbers mean harder problems; some versions also use an introductory VB grade.

Huh, didn't know that: Mountain Project's grade chart lists boulder grades all the way up to V17.

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What do you call a boulder problem that works at a bank? V2.
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References

Answer: Boulder problem difficulty. The V-scale rates the difficulty of boulder problems. V0 is a common entry grade and larger numbers mean harder problems; some versions also use an introductory VB grade.

  1. NPS Obed Wild and Scenic River: Boulder Climbing www.nps.gov/obed/planyourvisit/boulder-climbing.htm
    "V0" being the easiest, and "V7" and greater being the most challenging.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. REI: Climbing and Bouldering Rating Systems www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/climbing-bouldering-rating.html
    It also includes an introductory rating of VB for beginner bouldering problems.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  3. Mountain Project: International Climbing Grade Comparison Chart www.mountainproject.com/international-climbing-grades
    V17
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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