Follower / Following

In lead climbing and sport climbing, the term "Follower" refers to the climber who ascends the route after the lead climber. The lead climber ascends first, placing protection (such as quickdraws) along the route. The follower climbs second, cleaning or removing the gear placed by the lead climber while being belayed from above. The follower's primary role is to ensure the lead climber's gear is retrieved and to follow the route utilizing the same placements and anchors.

Examples

In lead climbing, the follower is the second climber who ascends after the lead climber. The follower's role includes cleaning the route, which means removing the quickdraws placed by the lead climber. In sports climbing, the follower also climbs after the lead climber and removes the quickdraws to ensure no gear is left behind. The follower is belayed from above, by the lead climber who has already reached the anchor point.