E211: Ben Moon - The Moon Spray, the next step in the evolution of commercial boards
Summary
Ben Moon joins hosts Sam Pryor and Aidan Roberts to discuss his new Moon Spray wall, a fixed-angle, three-dimensional training tool designed as an alternative to adjustable boards. The trio debates the decline of the indoor climbing industry, the enduring difficulty of Ravensthorpe’s Hubble, and grading controversies surrounding classic routes like Mutation. They also touch on Moon’s recent Yosemite trips and his philosophy on standardized training equipment.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Ben Moon's background
Ben's motorhome and life in Scotland
Edinburgh wave pool and indoor climbing boom
Market saturation and climbing wall economics
Ben's career and Ravensthorpe climbing
Route grading debates and historical ascents
Climbing gear, sports talk, and highball bouldering
Introduction to the Moon Spray Wall concept
Spray wall angles and adjustable board philosophy
Hold materials: Polyester vs Polyurethane
Hold variety, grid systems, and installation
Target audience and grading accuracy challenges
Hold design, colors, and aesthetic choices
Pricing, construction kits, and future Moonboard plans
Community impact, innovation, and conclusion
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