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Are Your Climbing Shoes Breathing Chemicals into the Gym?
For avid climbers and bouldering enthusiasts, the importance of performance gear is often paramount. But a recent study raises alarming questions about the environmental and health impacts of climbing shoes. Specifically, these high-performance footwear items might be releasing harmful chemicals into the air of indoor climbing gyms, according to research published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology Air.
Understanding the Hidden Threats in Climbing Gear
Researchers from the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science in Vienna found that the soles of climbing shoes shed rubber-derived compounds (RDCs) into the air during use. These include chemicals like 6PPD, commonly found in car tires. While 6PPD is notorious for its lethal effects on salmon, the health impacts on humans are yet to be fully understood.
What This Means for Climbers' Health
During the study, indoor air quality measurements revealed levels of air pollution comparable to busy roads in megacities, raising concerns about how climbers and gym workers might be inhaling and ingesting micro-particulates daily. The researchers noted that exposure ranged from 1.7 to 48 nanograms per kilogram per day.
A Call for Better Awareness and Action
The study emphasizes the need for climbing shoe manufacturers to be aware of how their products impact air quality and health. Collaboration with gym staff has prompted discussions about ways to mitigate these risks, underscoring the proactive stance of the climbing community towards improving indoor air quality.
Join the Conversation on Healthy Climbing
If you're a climbing enthusiast or gym operator, it's time to reflect on the gear you use. Engaging in dialogue about health impacts and advocating for better transparency from manufacturers can lead to safer climbing environments. Together, we can ensure our climbs are not just exhilarating but also safe for our health.
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