What gear do i need to start rock climbing In addition to standard items like a rope, harness, shoes and a helmet, the lead climber needs to carry gear specific to either sport leading or trad leading. When it comes to indoor climbing, having the right gear is essential to ensure a safe and successful climbing experience. . What climbing gear do you need to start bouldering? First of all, there is no such thing as bouldering gear. Nov 22, 2021 · What equipment do you need to go rock climbing? This means your first climb will likely be on a top rope or seconding an experienced leader and you’ll need the same basic equipment as you would to climb indoors: a climbing harness, a belay device and suitable climbing shoes. From your shoes to your chalk bag, every piece plays an integral role in ensuring safety and enhancing performance. Rock climbers are naturally drawn to the equipment. Learn more about climbing helmets. Expect to pay: A LOT 5 days ago · Wedge yourself between a rock and a hard place in style (if not comfort) with our pick of the best rock climbing gear going. It’s just climbing gear. Not only is it a symbol of safety, but also shows that you’ve carefully prepared for your adventure – no surprises, then, that you should take great care when choosing a helmet. Get started on rock climbing and Mar 4, 2022 · When free climbing, you’re not using equipment or gear to help you ascend the wall but allowing the gear to catch you in the case of a fall or to descend. Many climbing facilities offer rental equipment and guidance on what to wear and bring. Keep climbing shoes dry and clean, store crash pads properly, and regularly wash chalk bags. If your shoes wear out, consider shoe resoling instead of replacing them. Jun 20, 2022 · Yes, you could rent climbing gear, but if you’re serious about starting to climb routinely, here’s the essential equipment you’ll need to get started. 8mm 40 m rope. You can find safety harnesses and ropes at different sports stores, but they won’t always work for rock climbing. Something is awe-inspiring about rock climbing gear as it continues to evolve and become lightweight yet more robust, more colorful higher performing, and hyper-specialized. Dec 8, 2020 · Always buy gear that has been specifically designed and certified for rock climbing. A climbing helmet is the first thing you should buy when you start trad climbing. ” This is a generic term that you’ll often read in guidebook/topo descriptions. A. Nov 11, 2019 · What Gear Do You Need to Top Rope Rock Climb Outside? You need: A high-diameter climbing rope (±10. It can be done indoors or out and all you need is a pair of climbing shoes, some chalk, and a big foam crash pad. If you got the cheapest available harness and shoes, you’re looking at about $150 (less if you buy used gear or shop killer sales). Unlike traditional (trad) climbing, sport climbing relies on pre-placed bolts for protection, allowing climbers to focus on movement, athleticism, and problem-solving without the added complexity of placing gear. 0 mm is ideal if you plan to do a lot of top-roping). May 17, 2021 · Bouldering is rock climbing close to the ground without the need for a rope or harness. These can hold other gear you might need on a route, like a brush for cleaning holds. Some routes are meant to be led/followed, and top roping them may result in bad swings (imagine something like this but outdoors). Aug 7, 2024 · Rock climbing has gained popularity over the past few years, and whether you watched “Free Solo” or the Paris Olympics, you might be wondering how to start rock climbing. Sep 1, 2016 · You don’t need that much gear to start climbing at your local bouldering wall. Gear usually costs between $125-$500 for the initial purchase, which should include: - shoes, - rope, - harness, - belay device, - carabiners, - quickdraws, Jun 14, 2022 · Once you get outdoors though, you’ll need the following gear to start: Helmet: the risk of falls increases outdoors, especially if you get into trad climbing, so never climb outdoors without wearing a helmet. For example, you need the judgment to know what routes can be top roped. Essential Rock Climbing Gear The initial move for a triumphant outdoor rock climbing first experience is to make sure you have the necessary equipment. Jul 8, 2022 · The easiest way to get started is to find a club, a willing friend or a qualified instructor. Harness – This is what you’ll attach the rope to, so choose one that fits comfortably and securely. Photo: iStock. The Basics Climbing Shoes. Ask about guarantees. The Youth Ready to Rock Trad climbing course is designed to help young climbers (11-17 year olds) make their first moves onto rock by having a fun day out, as well as covering the use of some key skills and equipment, for both the participant and the parent/carer. You’re going to need a minimum of 25 feet of 7mm cordelette and at least four locking carabiners — two for the anchor side, two for the Here's the essential gear you'll need for most mountaineering trips: Mountaineering gear: Items such as mountaineering boots, crampons, a climbing helmet and an ice axe are standard items for almost every mountaineering climb. To start off, you’ll want a “single rack. What gear do I need to start bouldering? You’ll need climbing shoes for grip and precision, a chalk bag or bucket to keep your hands dry, and a crash pad to cushion your falls. Climbing gear isn’t cheap, and you need to make sure that yours comes with a valid warranty. Gear for Lead Climbing. Rope: obviously you’ll need one climbing rope to start, and two if you want to progress to multi-pitch climbing. Mar 4, 2025 · How do I take care of my climbing gear? Climbing equipment maintenance is key to safety and longevity. Equipment Needed to Start Rock Climbing. Getting into the sport May 22, 2025 · What equipment do I need to get started with rock climbing? To get started with rock climbing, you’ll need a few pieces of basic equipment, including climbing shoes, a harness, and a belay device. If you want to get into crack climbing then you would need to start investing in a rack. You can get by with runners, but climbing shoes make a world of difference. Perhaps the trickiest gear on this list, C. Apr 1, 2020 · What Gear Do I Need to Start Rock Climbing? Before you hit the rocks, you’ll need some essential gear: Climbing shoes – These specialized shoes have sticky rubber soles to help you grip the rock better. And, eventually, you'll want a full set of your own climbing gear. Below, five professional Nov 22, 2014 · I would say you need things in this order. When sport climbing, a climbing helmet offers all the protection you need when it matters most. On top of all the sport climbing basics such as rock shoes, a harness, and a belay device, you’ll also need different types of protection to place in the various cracks in the rock to catch your falls. You’re about to visit your local bouldering wall for the first time. If you Feb 21, 2023 · A rock climbing harness is an essential piece of equipment for climbers as it helps to secure them to the rope system and prevent falls. Jun 4, 2024 · Beginner’s Guide to Rock Climbing Gear: What You Need to Get Started Learn more about falling in our article, Lead Climbing: How to Fall. A helmet doesn’t hurt Sep 25, 2019 · Most climbing gyms offer day passes and will give you a quick orientation so you know where everything is in the gym. Invented by Greg Lowe in the 70s, TriCams are a niche piece of climbing protection, well-loved by those who learn to place them well, but ignored by many climbers who find them difficult to use. I would say there's more to it than anchors. For trips that take you onto glaciers, you'll need a rope, harness and crevasse rescue equipment to protect against If you are following, you won't need much. Feb 8, 2020 · Thankfully, you can buy rock climbing starter kits to jumpstart your newfound climbing addiction. Aug 12, 2020 · For the beginner, these five items above provide a manageable, basic kit so you can hop in and start climbing with more experienced crag rats. In fact, if you plan to boulder indoors at a gym, all you really need is a pair of climbing shoes, which you can usually rent at the gym. Your basic gear is a harness, a belay device, and rope. Aug 27, 2023 · So, you're getting ready to take on the world of rock climbing? Awesome! But hold on a sec, you can't just show up with your enthusiasm—you need the right gear to rock your climb. Bouldering requires significantly less gear than other forms of rock climbing. Apr 3, 2025 · Most rock climbing gear is transferable between different kinds of climbing. I would recommend this 10. Whether you're a beginner eager to scale your first crag or a seasoned climber planning your next adventure, having the right rock climbing gear is crucial for safety, comfort, and success. You’ll want to start off seconding or top roping, gradually building up to leading routes. This makes the harness less pleasant to wear, and limits other types of climbing you can do. You’ll need some climbing shoes, a chalk bag, and chalk. Dec 16, 2019 · How much does it cost to start rock climbing? If you want to start rock climbing in a gym, all you’ll need is a harness, climbing shoes, and a day pass or gym membership. Anchor System: Typically includes carabiners and slings set at the top of the route. The Gear packages listed here covers sport climbing, trad climbing, and bouldering. Trad Protection The leader places trad gear (protection) in cracks and fissures as they climb up. 1 mm rope in the 60 meter length. Trad Rack. Aug 19, 2023 · rock climbing checklist,, he simply won’t. Jun 22, 2021 · Tips for Packing Your Gear . Day passes at climbing gyms are usually Aug 14, 2024 · Trad Climbing Gear. For your first pair, don’t spend more than $100. These items are fundamental for new climbers to start learning the sport. Mar 27, 2025 · Some rock gyms buy harnesses that don’t have a front belay loop. If rap rings are set up, you won't need . Make sure your harness has two or more gear loops on the waist belt too. With a higher ratio of sheath-to-core this rope will hold up to hard use for many years. Now, just get your gear and get started. This way, the weight of the bags will be equal to carry on the approach, as the rope generally weighs as much as the rest of the gear combined. One of those reasons is the gear. Whether you're a fresh-faced newbie or a seasoned climber, having the essential gear by your side can make all the difference as you conquer those vertical challenges. Apr 7, 2024 · Here’s a recommended list of rock climbing equipment for beginners: climbing shoes for good grip, a comfortable harness, a sturdy helmet, a belay device, and a chalk bag for grip assistance. Nov 6, 2024 · Learn how to start rock climbing with this beginner’s guide. Here’s a list of the essential gear I use for top rope climbing: Harness: Worn by both the climber and belayer, it secures the rope to your body. TriCams are passive camming devices that use camming action to achieve great holding power. Apr 21, 2022 · Gear loops stick out from the harness at the hip-belt and allow climbers to clip on any extra gear that they’ll need during the climb, such as ropes or slings for outdoor climbing or, for indoor Jan 28, 2025 · Rock climbing is more than just a sport. They protect your head from things falling on you (rocks, equipment, etc. By Tom Ward 8 min read Published on 05/28/2025 · 3:50 PM UTC Jan 4, 2012 · Many companies offer quick packs in groups of five or more for fairly reasonable prices, such as Mammut and Black Diamond Equipment. For example, we did a couple of routes in JTree where you can hike up the side, sometimes a 4th class ascent, to set up a top rope. What You Need to Start Bouldering Get the Gear. Cordelette or static rope for rigging anchors off of trees and boulders; Minimum two extra locking carabiners, for your “master point”. You’ll want 8-12 for a complete set, though some routes or areas may need more. This is good advice. As climbing continues to Feb 23, 2020 · Anchor equipment: The routes you’re going to want to start climbing on will be equipped with bolts and chains, but you’re going to be responsible for setting up an anchor from which to hang a top rope. If you're headed outdoors, you'll also need a crash pad to cushion your falls. You can rent shoes, a harness, a chalk bag, and anything else you might need from that facility, along with your entry fee. Thankfully, getting started is easier (and cheaper) than you might think. If you start out at a gym or climb with a guide, necessary equipment is usually provided. (See “Essential Rock Climbing Equipment Sep 8, 2021 · Along with a rope (and some gear to clean), quickdraws are all you need to get out sport climbing (they’re also useful for trad climbers). Jan 25, 2023 · There are a lot of reasons to love rock climbing. Basic Gear for Indoor Climbing. Only #1 is required: A harness. One of my newest additions has been the Edelrid Eco Boa 9. If you prefer lower heights and more technical routes, then bouldering is right up your alley. When starting indoor rock climbing, the essential gear includes climbing shoes, a harness, and chalk. Sport climbing is one of the most popular climbing disciplines, offering a thrilling combination of physical challenge, technical skill, and accessibility. You can't climb with a rope unless you have one. Gear Needed for Rock Climbing. Divide the gear into two bags: the rope in one and everything else in the other. Climbing shoes are arguably the most important piece of gear for any climber. Apr 21, 2024 · In this video, we're going to talk about ALL of the rock climbing gear that we use for our adventures! We've been rock climbing for 4 years now and after pro I have never had or never will have any intention to climb these peaks, so I don’t have gear specific lists for these particular peaks, (I assumed you were in the US for some reason) that being said, the last 7 seems to be walk ups but the majority of the difficulty from 2-3 seems rock climbing related you should practice some outdoor sport There’s no denying that trad climbing is an equipment-heavy sport. Aug 4, 2018 · Climbing Rope. Dec 19, 2012 · TriCams. It's an exhilarating challenge that tests your strength, skill, and courage against nature's raw beauty. Most indoor rock climbing centers have all the gear you need for rent and some even provide them to you as part of your membership. The gear you need for lead climbing builds upon the essentials for top-rope climbing. ) and also from your head hitting the rock if you fall. There are plenty of climbing shoes and brands to choose from. Dec 5, 2008 · In order to start rock climbing, a person needs rock climbing shoes, a harness, a chalk bag, a belay device and a carabiner. If you like climbing, however, then you would benefit from getting your own gear. Here are some of the most important pieces of gear you’ll need: Climbing Shoes. Whether it’s a harness, crash pad, or even just a chalk bag, the Top Rope Climbing Equipment. P. To properly put on a rock climbing harness, first, loosen all of the buckles and straps. Sep 27, 2018 · Before you start cragging outside, you probably want to perfect your climbing skills at the gym. Literally climbing on a boulder instead of on a rock face or cliff. A harness typically consists of a waist belt and leg loops that are connected by a series of buckles and straps. M. Also, depending on your area and route, you may need different gear. It’s possible to start rock climbing indoors or outdoor, although many people nowadays do seem to start at their local climbing wall. Rope: A dynamic climbing rope is used to absorb the impact of falls. Jan 4, 2025 · Climbing shoes offer the grip needed, while chalk keeps sweaty hands in check. Tip: Always inspect your gear before climbing—whether you own it or rent Nov 28, 2021 · The great thing about starting indoors is that you don’t need to own any rock climbing gear except whatever loose, comfortable clothing you’d like to wear while climbing. Youth Ready to Rock Trad Climbing Course. Free climbing is much different from top-roping, where the belayer takes in most of the slack to assist the climber when they need a break. Importance: As needed. Shoes. Find tips on climbing types, gear, techniques, and safety for new climbers. With many climbers using gear, especially while renting, its frequent use leads to normal wear and tear over time. Mar 23, 2025 · Do I need a rope for the climbing gym? Many gyms are now requiring you to bring your own rope for lead climbing. A crack climbing rack used to consist of not much more than a set of hexes and stoppers. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential Dec 14, 2023 · While many provide equipment, you’ll eventually want to buy rock climbing gear of your own. Frequently Asked Question. In addition to attaining additional equipment like cams, nuts, and alpine draws, you’ll also need a pack that fits everything on the approach in, a rappel device that can accommodate two strands of rope at once, and anchor-building material like runners and/or Jan 7, 2016 · If you want to keep it real simple and forget about all the gadgets, ropes and harnesses, then you could opt to start bouldering. Your more Gear You’ll Need for Indoor Rock Climbing. If you’re looking for beginner indoor climbing shoes, you can find our recommendations here. If you own or rent your rock climbing gear, you should always give it a thorough inspection. In this form of climbing all you need are climbing shoes, chalk, and a crash pad. Some gyms or guides might require you to buy at least a few pieces of gear, though. However, climbing shoes can get pretty pricey. You may then choose to do an intro session with a staff member, where they Aug 5, 2022 · The best rock climbing gear for beginners, including climbing shoes, climbing harnesses, belay devices, climbing helmets, and climbing apparel, from brands like La Sportiva, Petzl, Black Diamond Jun 23, 2024 · Essential Gear for Indoor Climbing. Climbing helmet: Your essential for every route. The most gear-intensive discipline of those listed here, trad climbing has a fairly steep barrier to entry. Sterling Marathon Pro Climbing Rope. Sterling Marathon Pro Dry Single Rope. These are the basics. Here’s what you need to know about trad gear and tips on building your first climbing rack. 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