The power of the spindash depends on how long Spin is held. Just like Sonic and Tails, Knuckles can take use of the spindash to blast off with incredible speed and take out enemies by holding the Spin key. Knuckles' gliding and climbing are hugely useful in finding ways across obstacles without much risk, as well as finding secrets that other characters may not be able to reach. Horizontal and vertical momentum are carried into the glide when moving at higher speeds, enabling Knuckles to soar incredible distances given the correct conditions. When underwater, Knuckles's glide changes to a paddle swim, giving him increased speed preservation and faster turning. When gliding into a non-climbable wall, Knuckles will glide onto its side.
However, some walls cannot be climbed, typically in areas where Knuckles has to take a different path from the rest. In most cases, upon contacting a wall during a gilde, Knuckles will latch on to and can traverse it freely.
After jumping, a second jump input will begin gliding, which continues until jump is released, Knuckles contacts a wall or hazard, or lands on the ground as Knuckles descends. Knuckles shares his speed with the rest of the characters, but cannot jump as high, occasionally forcing him to take alternate pathways that take advantage of Knuckles' gliding and climbing abilities.