Climbing Grade Converter
Pick a system, type a grade, and see the equivalents. Route grades convert across YDS, French and UIAA, while boulder grades convert between the V scale and Font. Conversions are approximate because the systems do not align exactly.
How to convert climbing grades
- Choose the system your grade is written in, such as YDS or V scale.
- Type the grade, for example 5.11a or V5. Case does not matter.
- Read the equivalent grades in the other systems below.
Examples
YDS 5.11a to other systems
grade 5.11a, system yds
French 6c, UIAA VII-
Frequently asked questions
Which grade systems does this convert?
Route grades convert across the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS), French sport grades and UIAA. Boulder grades convert between the Hueco V scale and the Fontainebleau (Font) scale. This is an educational aid only, so get proper instruction and always check your system before climbing.
Why are grade conversions only approximate?
Each system was built by a different community and they do not line up one to one, so published charts disagree at the edges. Treat any conversion as a close guide, not an exact match. This is an educational aid only, so get proper instruction and always check your system before climbing.
Can I convert a route grade like 5.11a into a V scale grade?
No. The V scale and Font scale rate boulder problems, while YDS, French and UIAA rate roped routes, so they are not interchangeable. This converter keeps them separate on purpose. This is an educational aid only, so get proper instruction and always check your system before climbing.
What if my exact grade is not listed?
The tables cover common grades and report when a grade is not found. Grades outside the listed range, or plus and minus variants not in the table, will not convert. This is an educational aid only, so get proper instruction and always check your system before climbing.
Does the grade tell me a climb is safe?
No. Difficulty grades say nothing about rockfall, runout, anchors, protection or weather, all of which affect risk far more than the number. This is an educational aid only, so get proper instruction and always check your system before climbing.
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