Tufa

In bouldering, a "Tufa" is a type of climbing hold often found on limestone rock formations. It’s characterized by its elongated, pipe-like shape formed by the deposition of minerals from water. Climbers use tufas by pinching or wrapping their hands around them, sometimes employing heel hooks or toe hooks for added support. Tufas can vary in size and texture, making them a unique and challenging feature on a climb.

Examples

Tufa: Sarah encountered a tufa on her bouldering route, a long, bulbous rock projection that demanded a unique grip technique. During his climb, Mike squeezed the tufa with both hands, leveraging his palms and fingers to stay secure. Emma found the tufa hard to navigate, needing to pinch it tightly to maintain her balance on the steep overhang.