The lead test at Rock Oasis will assess your ability to climb and belay safely at our facility.

The test takes approximately one hour and costs $15 (+hst) per person.

You are responsible for finding your own partner for the test, who is either taking the test with you or is already certified in our facility. During the test, you will be asked to climb and belay on three climbs including at least one 5.10 on the gym's steep overhang section.

You must provide your own rope, Grigri, and locking carabiner for the test.

Certified lead climbers may use a Petzl Neox at the gym. However, the test itself can only be taken using a Grigri.

Participants are permitted to use an Edelrid Ohm if there is an appropriate weight difference. Both the climber and belayer in this case must pass a short Ohm test to demonstrate their theoretical understanding of and practical experience with the device.

Lead certifications completed at Rock Oasis or Joe Rockhead’s on or after April 17th, 2024 are valid at both gyms.

BOOK YOUR TEST

Ready to make the move from top-rope to lead? This course teaches you the basics of lead climbing in the gym. Lead climbing provides freedom, focus and fulfillment: It’s like rediscovering the thrill of your first climb!

This course is taught over three 2.5 hr sessions in either pairs or groups of 3.

Read our FAQ’S below to learn more and access our application form.

What will I learn?

The lead course covers all the basic skills you’ll need to climb and belay on lead indoors. You’ll learn about risk management and gear maintenance, and you’ll get lots of hands-on experience with clipping, falling, and catching.

Timeline?

The course takes three weeks to complete. Each week, you will have one 2.5 hour lesson with an instructor and two practice sessions outside of class time with your partner.

The course requires a significant time commitment. Please make sure you have lots of time to climb and are available for three consecutive weeks before signing up.

How much experience do I need?

A certain amount of strength and experience are required in order for you to safely practice and complete the skills covered in the lead course. Before signing up, please make sure you meet all of the following criteria:

• Climbing regularly (i.e. at least twice a week)

• Six months of top-roping experience

• Able to flash (i.e. climb from start to finish, without resting or falling, on the first try) most climbs graded up to 5.10

If upon meeting you, your instructor believes that you don’t meet these requirements, the gym reserves the right to postpone the remainder of your course until a later date.

What equipment do I need?

In addition to your usual harness, shoes, and chalk-bag, you’ll also need the following gear:

• Grigri (N.B. certified lead climbers may use the Petzl Neox after passing the lead test, but the lesson and test can only be taken using a Grigri)

• Screw lock carabiner

• Single climbing rope (your rope must be at least 30 metres long. Some manufacturers make 40 metre ropes which are perfect for indoor climbing. If you plan to use your rope outdoors, you should get a rope that is at least 60m long)

• Edelrid Ohm (if there is a large weight difference) - if there is more than a 30% weight difference between participants, you will need to use an Ohm device in order for the lighter person to belay safely.

Do I have to practice?

Yes, practice is mandatory. Each week, you and your partner will need to practice together in the gym at least twice between classes. You may also practice at Joe Rockhead’s, regular admission fee

Practicing also requires the help of a third person to top-rope belay while you and partner mock-lead. Your helper must be top-rope certified at Rock Oasis. They do not need to be lead certified. If you don’t know anyone who can help you with your practice sessions, let us know and we’ll help you find someone.

Do I need a partner?

Courses can run with two or three participants. You are responsible for finding your own partner(s).

How much does the course cost?

$225 (+hst) per participant.

A gym membership, punch pass or day pass purchase is required for each class.

If you have registered for the lead course and aren’t a member at Rock Oasis, you can purchase a discounted single-month membership for $95 while you take the course.

Gear Discount

Climbers who have registered for the lead course are eligible to receive a one time, 15% discount when purchasing gear from our gear shop.

Lessons must be paid for in-full beforehand. This offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.

Apply Now!

Please read through all of the information in the previous sections before signing up for the course.

Feel like you’re ready?

Fill out this form.

Once we’ve received your request, we’ll find you an available instructor and get back to you to confirm.

If you have any other questions, email lead@rockoasis.com.

One hour refresher course for those already certified to lead at Rock Oasis and Joe Rockhead's.

Perfect for climbers that are interested in additional fall practice, improving catching technique, projecting on lead, using and OHM, and brushing up on clipping.

To schedule a session please email lead@rockoasis.com