“Well, that’s the crux of it,” is an oft-used phrase to describe the most pressing or important issue, problem or puzzle. In essence, the crux is the most important part of something, the issue on which things hinge. It terms of climbing, this notion of a hinge is very apt. The crux of a climb is like a gate or a door, barring progress. If you can unlock the crux, you’ve proved yourself worthy of the rest of the route.
At their best, climbing routes are like puzzles that are solved through a combination of ingenuity, technique and athleticism. Nowhere do you need all three to come together in your favor as much as your do at the crux of a climb.
