Called "Pad People" by other climbers, boulderers (i.e. people who ascend boulders that range from 8 to 30 plus feet high) utilize shoes, chalk bags and toothbrushes, but bouldering pads (aka crash pads) are their sole safety item. Bouldering pads provide a soft landing for when a boulderer falls off the "problem" (i.e. route) she is working. Most current pads look just like small mattresses (and if big enough can even double as a sleeping mat while camping).
Pads are typically made out of layered foam that ranges in stiffness, and they often have a tough, water resistant nylon cover. They fold in several different ways. The taco and hinge basically fold in half, while the burrito tri-folds and the hybrid-hinge sports a continuous and a split layer.
What to Look for
Climbers should consider how they are going to use a bouldering pad before purchasing one. People who spend a lot of time hiking long distances should stick with a smaller, lighter pad that's easy to carry, while people planning on doing "high balls" (i.e. routes 15 plus feet) might want a pad that offers them more coverage should they fall.
In the same vein, it's important for a climber to actually try on various types of pads at his local outdoor store. Most have backpack style straps, which can be comfortable for one person but not for another. Backpack style straps allow a climber to travel long distances with their pad. On the other hand, people planning on doing very little moving around might find the briefcase style pad more convenient.
Pad people who regularly do highball routes might want to choose a stiffer pad that won't give when they fall on it from high above.
Common Pitfalls
A bouldering pad definitely reduces the risk of serious accidents. However, without a good spotter (i.e. someone who is directing you onto the crash pad and keeping your head upright), this safety device can be close to useless. Before you buy a pad, learn how to spot from an expert at your local gym.
The prices of pads are often off-putting. They range from $140 to $300. However, having something to cushion a fall can mean the difference between a broken wrist and walking away from repeated falls. A good pad will also even out the terrain that is being fallen on, which means a climber will end up with far fewer twisted ankles.
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