Story behind
Stefan Vepshek
Since my first climbing in the late ‘90s, I knew my life would be forever connected with this sport.
I graduated from the School of Fine Arts and the National Academy of Art, specializing in sculpture, and I have always aimed to enhance my skills in working with form and detail.
The pursuits of art and climbing naturally converged in the creation of climbing holds and gear. I have always been particularly passionate about rock climbing, and in the design of my products, I strive to replicate the essence of the rock climbing experience.
In 2018, I established the Crampa brand to produce wooden climbing climbing gear. My goal was to offer products that are exceptional in both design and functionality, each with its own distinctive identity.
Today, Crampa is embarking on a new and exciting path in the production of climbing holds. I am fortunate to have Ivan and Plamen as partners, sharing the same vision and ideals for building a climbing brand.
The fact that we have been friends for decades and share countless unforgettable memories makes this journey even more special.
- Significant rock climbing experience. I have climbed at various crags in Europe and Asia, successfully redpointing and onsighting numerous sport climbing and bouldering lines up to grade 8c.
- Professional career in sculpture, design, and restoration.
- Over 10 years of professional experience in the design and production of climbing holds, as well as the development of technological solutions.
Ivan Danchev
From a computer-loving, math-savvy sci-fi enthusiast who partied five days a week (yes, it was possible in the ’90s) to a dedicated climber over the years.
My journey began in the ’90s!
There’s much to say, but one thing is certain: EVERY CLIMBER DREAMS OF A GYM AND/OR HOLDS BRAND!
For many moons, I’ve watched close friends venture into various climbing-related businesses—climbing holds, mats, crash pads, brushes, walls, and more. Now, I’m thrilled to say my dream is finally coming true!
What’s even better?
I’m embarking on this adventure with friends I’ve been climbing and celebrating with for over 25-30 years! I can’t imagine a better setup!
The way I see it: if I can trust them to spot and belay me, I can certainly trust them with my dream!
- Climbing since 1998 with a decent relevant track record in rock sport climbing and bouldering in many different crags in Italy, Slovenia, Bulgaria, France and Switzerland
- Since 2018 taking an active role as part of the international competition climbing scene as a judge in numerous IFSC events including Bouldering and Lead World Cups
- Professional career in Computer Science with interests in Machine Learning, Game Theory, Economics, Sci-Fi, Chess, Poker, Gaming, skiing and surprisingly …. climbing 😉
Plamen Dekov
It began in my freshman year at the Math & Science High School in my hometown. I’d love to say that physics and gravity were the perfect match for starting my journey in climbing, but… it was nothing like that. I just loved it the moment I tried!
Since then, I dedicated myself mostly to constant improvement, and national and international climbing competitions, and honestly, that was my main focus until I pursued my university degree at the National Sports Academy and obtained a climbing coaching diploma.
It was there that I first entered the climbing holds industry—let’s face it, there’s no high-level climber who hasn’t dipped their fingers at some point into the “shaping and making their own line of holds.”
Years have passed through different businesses and endeavours, but the passion was always ready to resurface and take me over again!
The moment came. In 2024, I “joined forces” with Ivan a classmate from my hometown (very dear friend, climbing partner, and roommate at different times over the last 35+ years) and Stefan another long-term climbing friend from the same cross-millennia climbing “sect.”
This turned out to be the perfect mixture to jump in wholeheartedly towards the ultimate climbing buddies’ dream—starting the best climbing holds brand we can… and then improving further.
So, it’s ON…!
- Climbing since 1986 and competing for more than a decade in both speed and lead disciplines. At my peak, I reached 7c+/8a.
- Professional career in multiple sectors: climbing (including coaching), printing, media and publishing companies, aviation, and real estate. Interested in kitesurfing, diving, skiing and gaming with my best friends.
Crampa Team
