Mountain climbing is a gear-intensive activity. Whether you plan to ascend a sheer cliff wall or tackle a multi-day expedition in the Himalayas, bringing the right gear is essential. In general, mountain climbing gear consists of a few fundamental items: climbing hardware, protective helmets, climbing shoes, harnesses, rope and the right clothes.
Hardware
Mountain climbing hardware is necessary in a variety of climbing environments, from sheer cliffs to gentle ascents. Among the most typical pieces of mountain climbing gear is the harness, which wraps around your waist and legs and attaches to climbing and repelling ropes. Carabiners are metal loops with sprung or screwed gates that can be attached to ropes and other items quickly. For mountain climbing that involves snow or ice, crampons are sharp metal frames that can be attached to your boots to provide stability in slippery conditions. An ice ax is necessary for steep ascents on slippery ice.
Rope
Rope is additionally important to the mountain climber. Mountain climbing rope is much thicker and more durable than average rope, and is applicable to everything from scaling a cliff side to pulling yourself up a steep, icy ascent. Climbing rope comes in a variety of lengths and widths depending on the type of expedition. Thicker, longer ropes are generally used for rock climbing and rappelling. Thinner rope can be used for less severe climbs that still require assistance along an ascent, such as a steep ice field.
Helmets
Helmets are an essential piece of mountain climbing safety gear. Mountain climbing helmets generally protect the entire head and fasten beneath the chin via a strap with a clip. Their construction typically consists of an injection-molded polycarbonate shell with a foam interior. Several vents provide ventilation, while a thumb wheel located on the posterior can be turned to adjust the fit. Some mountain climbing helmets include attachments for headlamps.
Shoes
Footwear is absolutely essential to the mountain climber. For the climber who faces a multi-day ascent on gradual or semi-severe slopes, mountain boots that provide comfort and ankle stability are key. Good quality climbing boots include a removable inner boot and should always be worn with thick socks.
Rock shoes are used by mountain climbers who specialize in scaling cliff walls. These shoes fit like slippers, are much more lightweight than mountain boots, and are typically worn without socks. Rock shoes are slip resistant with vents to keep the foot dry and comfortable during the ascent.
Clothing
Like hardware and protective equipment, clothing is an essential part of the mountain climber's gear. Cold-weather ascents typically require an underwear layer that fully covers the body; a soft shell layer, including a jacket and pants; a shell layer, including a shell jacket and GORE-TEX pants; and an insulated layer for extremely cold climbs, consisting of a down jacket and pants or one-piece suit. Layers can be added or removed depending on the temperature and weather.
Rock climbers, conversely, typically wear very little clothing as it can interfere with the climbing gear. Shorts and a tight-fitting sports shirt are the most popular choices, as they will not get accidentally caught on rocky protrusions or in climbing hardware.
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