Rock climbing requires some investment in gear in order to ensure your safety and maximize your performance. If you are just starting out with indoor climbing, you can usually rent the necessary gear from your climbing gym as you gradually acquire your own. Outdoor climbing, however, requires a more sizeable investment. Never climb outside without the proper gear, and make sure you are adequately trained on the use of climbing gear before you attempt to use it.
Indoor Climbing
Step 1
Buy a pair of climbing shoes. You can rent shoes at the gym, but owning your own shoes will improve your performance as your shoes will mold to the shape of your feet over time. Buy your climbing shoes tight but not painful, and look for a style that closely resembles the natural shape of your foot. Leather shoes stretch over time, so buy them snug. The size of your climbing shoes may differ from your regular shoes by as much as two sizes, notes outdoor gear review site Spadout.
Step 2
Invest in a harness. Climbing harnesses for adults usually fasten around the waist, while children's versions may include full-body or chest harnesses. Choose a harness that is comfortable, lightweight and the proper size to ensure your safety.
Step 3
Bring your own chalk and chalk bag. Chalk bags hook onto your harness and hold your chalk, which you can use to dry your hands and improve your grip on slick holds. Though chalk isn't necessary for climbing, you may find that it greatly improves your performances, especially in humid environments.
Step 4
Buy your own belay device. Some gyms will provide or rent belay devices, but it's a good idea to have your own, especially if you plan on doing any outdoor climbing. Belay devices come in many different styles. Tube-style belay devices are inexpensive and lightweight, and can also be used for rappelling. Auto-locking belay devices are heavier and more expensive, but increase the climber's safety in case of a fall.
Outdoor Climbing
Step 1
Buy your own rope. In addition to all of the indoor climbing gear mentioned above, you will need a rope if you are climbing outdoors. Dynamic ropes are typically recommended for outdoor climbing, as they have a degree of elasticity that will reduce the force the climber feels upon taking a fall. The Sierra Trading Post recommends replacing your climbing rope after a major fall and keeping a diary of your rope usage.
Step 2
Wear a helmet when climbing outdoors to protect your head in case of a fall. Belayers should also wear helmets to protect their heads from falling objects.
Step 3
Bring plenty of quickdraws. Quickdraws consist of two carabiners attached by a strip of webbing. Quickdraws allow you to hook into anchors on the wall while sport climbing. For trad climbing, where anchors are not pre-set in the wall, you will need additional gear in order to place your own protection. Always bring extra gear in case you are forced to leave some in the wall during a difficult climb.
Step 4
Bring carabiners, webbing and slings, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as extending anchors, setting topropes, cleaning routes and carrying equipment.
Things You'll Need
- Shoes
- Harness
- Chalk and chalk bag
- Belay device
- Rope
- Helmet
- Quickdraws
- Carabiners, webbing and slings
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