Karma8a might be named after one of France’s most notorious bouldering problems — route Karma 8a — but that’s not the only reason it’s gained a solid reputation among climbers in the know. Its newfound cult status is also because René Grincourt’s brand is redefining what bouldering gear looks like. He’s taking creative cues from street culture and Paris’ underground bouldering scenes and blending them to create a new kind of performance wear, one that looks as good on the wall as it does on the street.

But don’t just take our word for it. To show you what the brand looks like in action, we linked up with four Berlin-based climbing pros: Eva Kallia, Bradley Iseri, Essi Tesfom, and Orfeas Tsiaousis for an afternoon of putting Karma8a to the test. And, in between boulder swings and problem solving, we found some time to chat about the joy of climbing itself. Specifically, what these athletes love most about the sport, what their communities mean to them, and how they pick their gear.

Keep it Karma8a

EVA KALLIA

How did you start bouldering? I tried climbing when I was very little and I fell in love with it immediately. I felt like I’d just discovered a never-ended game to play. It still feels the same.

What does “good design” mean in the world of bouldering fits? I’m easy when it comes to climbing clothes. I put comfort first but also what makes me feel confident to move in. The ideal design for a climbing brand in my opinion would be bright colours and a baggy fit. That’s what attracts me.

Does your climbing community share a sense of style? I think that people who share love for the same sport have a small connection and can learn and explore with each other, even if they would never meet or connect outside of climbing. I wouldn’t say that it’s about aesthetics but more about sharing something bigger.

Any words of wisdom for beginners? Show up as much as you can and get out of your comfort zone, no matter the level.

Fit your flow

BRADLEY ISERI

What do you love about bouldering? I love the problem-solving aspect, the community, and the sheer physical intensity that comes with pushing your limits.

How would you describe bouldering style? I would say bouldering has a lot of crossover with skating. A bit baggy, old-school, nothing too flashy. Maybe a bit more granola. I love the Karma8a logo. It's a good intersection between streetwear and climbing style.

What are your three bouldering essentials? Shoes, chalk, friends.

Tell us about your climbing community... I have a great climbing community. They motivate me, elevate me, we take trips together. Climbing is the medium of our friendship.

**Any tips for beginners? ** Don't worry about people judging you when you're a beginner. The climbing community is incredibly supportive.

Neutrals never miss

ESSI TESFOM

What do you love most about bouldering? I love the challenge of overcoming fearful moments and becoming more aware of what the body is capable of achieving. But also learning a lot about patience, resilience, and the power of consistency.

How does it challenge you? Mentally, it teaches me to appreciate the still moments while bouldering. Allowing my thoughts to pause and become present in the moment. Physically, it highlights the points where I need to improve specific aspects.

Does your bouldering style reflect your day-to-day style? I love to express myself through the garments I wear. Be it when heading out for work meetings, grocery shopping, going out for a run, going to the gym or bouldering. The phrase, “if you dress well, you perform better” truly resonates with me.

Is proper gear worth investing in? Investing in proper gear is mandatory when you aim to excel in the sport. It allows you to focus more on enhancing your skill set. With the proper equipment, when anything falls short, you can be assured that it’s only your skill set that needs some fine tuning.

Performance is key

ORFEAS TSIAOUSIS

What do you love most about bouldering? What I love most about bouldering is that every boulder is a new puzzle, it’s never repetitive. The variety keeps it endlessly challenging and creative. To succeed, I need strength, coordination, problem solving, and mental focus, all at once. There’s always something to improve, and that constant pursuit of growth is what keeps me coming back.

What does “good design” mean in the world of bouldering fits? For me, good design in bouldering fits means finding that perfect balance between comfort, functionality, and self-expression. If what you’re wearing lets you move freely, makes you feel confident, and reflects who you are. That’s good design, no matter the trend.

Is proper gear worth investing in? Absolutely, especially climbing shoes. Higher-end models offer specific advantage depending on the style of the climb, soft shoes for sensitivity, stiff ones for edging. And chalk matters more than people think. Good quality chalk gives better friction and control, which makes a real difference on the wall.

Any tips for beginners? Bouldering is mostly about failing — don’t let it stop you. Keep trying, and trust that every attempt is part of the progress.