Cairn How To Use Chalk
Chalk in Cairn is used to temporarily increase your grip on handholds. You activate it by holding Right on the directional pad, which coats your hands and makes your next 12 handholds extra grippy. This is one of the most important tools for difficult climbs and tight sections.
This guide explains exactly how chalk works, how to activate it, and when to use it so you do not waste charges.
How To Use Chalk In Cairn
Chalk is activated instantly through a quick input and does not require resting or menus.
Hold Right on the directional pad
Your hands are coated in chalk
The next 12 handholds gain increased grip
Once the 12 handholds are used, the chalk effect ends and must be reapplied.
What Chalk Actually Does
Chalk increases how securely Aava grips handholds. This reduces slipping, stamina drain, and sudden loss of control on small or awkward grips.
It does not make bad holds safe forever. It simply gives you more margin for error, which matters a lot on long or exposed climbs.
When You Should Use Chalk
Chalk is best saved for moments where precision matters more than speed.
Use chalk in these situations
Thin ledges or shallow cracks
Overhangs and awkward transitions
Long sections without safe rests
When stamina starts draining faster than expected
Using chalk on easy terrain wastes charges you will want later.
How To Avoid Wasting Chalk
Chalk is limited, so timing matters.
Apply chalk right before a hard section
Do not activate it too early
Avoid using it just to move a short distance
Combine it with good hand placement and planning
Chalk helps, but bad positioning will still get you thrown.
Chalk And Long Climbs
On massive climbs, chalk works best when paired with smart pacing. Use it to push through difficult segments, then rest or reposition once the effect ends.
Experienced players rely on chalk to reduce piton usage and conserve stamina. It is not flashy, but it quietly saves runs.
Final Blurb
Chalk is simple and powerful. Hold Right on the directional pad, get 12 stronger handholds, and climb with confidence. Use it with intention, not panic, and it becomes one of the most reliable tools in Cairn.
FAQ
How do you activate chalk in Cairn
Hold Right on the directional pad to apply chalk to your hands.
How long does chalk last
Chalk lasts for 12 handholds, then the effect ends.
Does chalk work on all climbs
Yes, but it is most effective on difficult or unstable handholds.
Can chalk replace pitons
No, but it reduces how often you need pitons on hard sections.
