How it all began – From idea to ball

Dieter, a sports scientist and passionate climber, had a clear vision:
A training tool that challenges finger strength, coordination, and concentration – playful, location-independent, and without a climbing wall.

He spoke with Joachim – a mental coach, tennis trainer, and creative mind.

A few weeks later, while chopping wood, Joachim had a flash of inspiration:
“What if you could climb around a ball – using your fingers, hold by hold?”

He told Dieter about his idea – and the Boulderball journey began.

Dieter – The scientist behind the training

With over 20 years of experience in climbing and a degree in sports science, Dieter understands what functional, preventive training requires.
He brings expertise – from biomechanics to training theory. His guiding question:
“How can we make finger training effective, safe, and motivating – for all age groups?”

Joachim – The tinkerer behind the idea

Joachim has worked for many years as a mental coach and tennis trainer. With a feel for motivation and mindfulness, he developed the game concept around the Boulderball.

He was immediately fascinated by the spherical shape – it became a symbol for focus, strategy, and playful training.

From sketch to game – Our journey

Our development was shaped by experiments, prototypes, and a lot of fine-tuning – and it was anything but linear. But every step brought us closer to what Boulderball is today.

  • 2012 – The first idea takes shape

    Our friend Fritz – an experienced wood turner – crafted the first wooden prototypes.
    Small drilled spheres with grip indentations laid the foundation for today’s gameplay.

  • 2016 – Premiere at the Game Inventors Fair

    Under the name “Climball,” the game concept is presented for the first time at the International Game Inventors Fair in Haar. Rules and gameplay are already fully developed.

  • 2021 – Technological leap through 3D printing

    The next Boulderball generation is digitally designed and produced via 3D printing – more precise, lighter, and grippier.

  • 2022

    Debut at the Boulder World Cup in BrixenThe new Boulderball is introduced to the international climbing scene – with enthusiastic feedback.

    Award: European Product Design AwardRecognized for its innovative design and playful training approach.

  • 2023 – 30,000 Boulderballs sold

    Boulderball becomes establishedas a training and focus game for all age groups – from the living room to the climbing gym.

  • 2024

    Launch: Boulderball TEAM Climb
    The XXL set for groups, schools, workshops, and team events is released – massively expanding its use cases.
    Second design award: A’ Design Award (Silver)
    Internationally recognized for product design and user experience.
    TV appearance on “Die Höhle der Löwen” (German Shark Tank)
    Presented on German television – Boulderball captures a wide audience.
    Over 100,000 Boulderballs sold worldwide
    A major milestone! Our strongest markets: Europe, the USA, and Japan.

    What began as an idea in a workshop is now played all over the world.