Joseph Wetsel

• What kind of climbing do you usually do ?

​        I like every kind of climbing. especially if it's fun and the bouldering or routes have great varied challenging motion sequences.

• What gives you the most fun when route setting?

         I enjoy challenging people with new motion sequences and puzzling them, but once they've discovered the little detail, it's possible. My motto is, "It`s impossible until it`s possible!"

• What angle of wall do you prefer to set on?

          Vertical and slightly overhanging edges and corners

• What style of climbing do you prefer to set?

           In every kind of style, dynamic stuff, balance, power, reading forcing people into something they don`t like , .... it should be fun everytime!!!!

• How do you make a route awesome?

          I think small details and the roundness of a problem is decided. Climbing/bouldering has to feel good, it has to be fun in all aspects, technical, optical, emotional, playful, .... small details are the key to success to create a great sequence of movements.

• What is the important thing for you when choosing climbing holds?

          Climbing handles are an important element from which ideas become reality. Climbing grips are the climber's direct means of contact with the sport and the wall, so this is crucial. I always look for grips which scream to be climbed and are happy to be on the wall together. The whole thing has to result in a picture, a whole picture on the wall has to be right to make it beautiful. Climbing handles must feel good but there may be a surprise.

• Can you give us your view of the trend towards volumes in wood and fiberglass?

        Volumes open up new possibilities, new dimensions. They are an element with which one can truly conjure, but this is often more difficult than thought. I really enjoy playing and working with them and increasing the variety of movements. I love them.

• Can you give us your opinion on the evolution of indoor climbing?

​         Indoor climbing has evolved. In the past there were training basements for climbing enthusiasts, today there are large commercial facilities for recreational athletes who want to have some fun together with their friends. This is a huge turn of events which brings a lot of changes. I see many positive points in this development and am happy to be involved.

•  Do international competitions influence your choice of holds or volumes?

        No only very rarely are surprises there which I have never seen before.

Joseph is chief routesetter at Kletterkultur