The FAF World Tour: Six Chapters, Six Continents, One Epic Journey
FAF (noun) – An overcomplicated task, especially one perceived as a complete waste of time.
Maybe calling it the “World Tour” is a bit of a FAF. I mean, we’re not actually jetting off to Font or sending it in the Swiss Alps. But here’s the thing – we’re about to take you on a journey that’s just as epic, right here in Jozi.
Six Chapters. Six Legends. One Massive Adventure.
Every six weeks, we’re transforming our walls into the world’s most iconic bouldering destinations. This isn’t just your average comp series – this is a properly thought-out adventure that’ll have you psyched to the max.
Chapter 1: Fontainebleau – Where It All Began
We’re kicking off in the forest south of Paris, where French alpine climbers have been getting after it since the 1800s. Font is the birthplace of bouldering as we know it – those classic sandstone blocs scattered through mystical forests. Our setting team is cooking up some proper Font-style technical slabs and classic arêtes that’ll have you feeling like you’re threading your way through the Cuvier Rempart.
Chapter 2: Magic Wood – The Swiss Sanctuary
Next up, we’re heading to that mystical pine forest in Switzerland where the gneiss is so perfect it’ll make you weep. Magic Wood is all about power, precision, and those bullet-hard crimps that separate the strong from the psyched. Get ready for some steep, thuggish climbing that’ll test every fiber in your forearms.
Chapter 3: Hampi – Ancient Boulders, Modern Problems
Chapter 3 takes us to India’s UNESCO wonderland, where 14th-century ruins meet world-class granite. Hampi’s got that perfect mix of technical slabs, razor-sharp arêtes, and highballs that’ll have you questioning your commitment. The setting team is going full creative mode for this one – think ancient vibes with modern movement.
Chapter 4: Rocklands – Desert Dreams
Time to get proper desert strong in the Cederberg Mountains. Rocklands is where the Northern Hemisphere flocks every summer for that bullet-hard sandstone and guaranteed sun. We’re talking gymnastic, thuggy climbing that’ll have your tendons screaming and your psych levels maxed out. Better start working those finger strength sessions now.
Chapter 5: Hueco Tanks – The Birthplace of V-Grades
Hueco is legendary – the actual birthplace of the V-grading system and home to some of the most iconic problems ever climbed. Those perfect huecos carved into desert boulders create climbing that’s pure magic. Expect powerful roof climbing, technical face problems, and maybe even a cheeky highball or two.
Chapter 6: Chimanimani – The Hidden Gem
We’re finishing strong in Africa’s best-kept secret. Chimanimani is so remote that most climbers have never even heard of it, but those in the know reckon it’s got some of the best quartzite in the world. This final chapter is all about adventure, exploration, and that raw African spirit that’ll leave you proper inspired.
Why This Isn't Just Another FAF
Look, I get it. Six themed competitions might seem like a bit of a faff. But here’s what we’re really building – a space where Jozi’s climbing community can gooi and go all out, in a structured way that actually elevates everyone’s level.
Each chapter gets 30 perfectly choreographed problems. That’s 180 quality blocs over the year, with each set taking our team about 15 hours to perfect. Yeah, it’s a lot of work, but watching climbers discover new movement patterns and push their limits? That’s pure gol
Building Jozi's Climbing Story
This World Tour isn’t just about the climbing – it’s about the wholesomeness of our community. It’s the fist bumps after sending your project, the weird finger flicks you do with your tjom, and those epic cheering sessions on the deck.
From the laughter and hugs to taking your new homies outside for real rock adventures, these six chapters are going to let everyone express themselves and write their own climbing stories. Stories that people are properly psyched on.
Ready to Join the Adventure?
Every six weeks, we’re dropping a new chapter in this epic journey. Whether you’re a seasoned crusher or just getting started, there’s something in each destination that’ll challenge and inspire you.
The world’s best bouldering destinations are calling – and they’re all right here in Jozi.
Much love and psyched vibes, The FA Team
