Kirk Fuson

Creative, Crimpy, and Climbing Stronger Than Ever at 52

Kirk Fuson is living proof that passion and persistence don’t fade with age—they sharpen. With over 34 years of climbing experience, a thriving creative career, and a love for art, coding, and heavy metal, Kirk is the kind of athlete who shows up for the process just as much as the send. Whether he’s tackling 5.14 projects or sketching powerful portraits, Kirk’s story is one of grit, balance, and creative flow.

Quick Facts

Name: Kirk Fuson

Gym: Inspire Rock (Spring, TX)

Climbing For: 34+ years (seriously for the last 10)

Favorite Style: Steep & technical sport climbing

Instagram: @FuManKirk & @the_yellowshirts

The Interview

What do you do for a living?

I’m a Digital Creative Manager for a specialized industrial company—everything from branding and web design to 3D logistics diagrams and software tools. Outside of work, I’m transitioning into full-time creative entrepreneurship again—blending development, writing, and visual art.

How long have you been rock climbing for?

On and off for over 34 years, but consistently and seriously over the past decade. I’m 52 and climbing stronger than ever.

What type of climbing do you like the best?

Steep, technical lead climbing and vertical parking lots with 5mm crimps. I love the intensity and the mental game—fear management, endurance, precision.

What gyms do you climb at?

My home gym is Inspire in Spring, TX. It’s where I train, connect with my crew, and test my limits.

What does a good climbing community mean to you?

Encouragement without ego. A crew that pushes each other and respects the struggle. I’m the oldest in our crew and wouldn’t trade that mix of wisdom, competition, and camaraderie for anything.

If you could travel anywhere in the world to climb, where would it be?

Spain. I’d love to project something steep in Margalef or Mallorca, eat good food, sketch, and soak up the limestone culture.

Favorite outdoor climb you’ve done or are projecting?

Right now I’m training for God’s Own Stone (5.14a) in Red River Gorge. It’s a dream route. Not just about sending it—but becoming the kind of climber who can.

What makes a great rock climbing gym?

Great routesetting, friendly staff, steep walls, and a sense of belonging. Being challenged without feeling judged is key.

Who’s your favorite climber to watch?

Seb Bouin—raw, controlled, brilliant. Watching him climb is like watching an alien decode gravity in real time.

Beyond the Wall: Artist + Creator

When did you fall in love with art?

As a kid—probably 7 or 8. Drawing gave me a sense of control and expression I couldn’t find anywhere else.

Favorite piece you made as a kid?

A charcoal wolf I drew when I was 12. It was the first time I felt like I truly captured something alive.

Favorite professional artist?

Alpay Efe on YouTube—his mastery is incredible. I also draw inspiration from tattooists and street artists.

Go-to music while drawing?

Ambient jazz, heavy bass, or aggressive metal—music that gets me in flow without distracting lyrics. Witch House is a recent favorite.

Pre-send hype song?

Anything by Metallica before the Black Album. Agent Orange is a close second.

More Than Just a Climber

If you could do another Olympic sport, what would it be?

Gymnastics—for the strength, grace, and body control. It shares a lot with climbing.

Favorite non-climbing athlete?

Rodney Mullen. His work ethic, obsession with mastery, and ability to push boundaries deeply resonate with me.

Favorite pre-climb drink?

Dirty Chai Tea Latte or an energy drink—for focus and fuel.

If you were a vegetable…?

A beet. Underrated, tough, earthy, and full of energy beneath the surface.

Surprising fact about you?

I’m building software tools for small businesses, finishing edits on a cyberpunk book series, and training for my hardest climb ever—while working full-time and caregiving for my mom. I don’t have time to waste, so I choose not to.

 Connect with Kirk

• @FuManKirk
• @the_yellowshirts