Looking to take your rock climbing outside? Here’s what to wear to make sure you’re comfortable and safe while scaling new heights.
What to wear when rock climbing in different weather conditions
The type of clothing you wear rock climbing will vary depending on the season and the weather conditions. In general, you will want to wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing that won’t restrict your movement.
In warm weather, shorts or light weight pants and a t-shirt or tank top is typically all that is needed. In cooler weather, you may want to layer your clothing to stay warm. A good base layer, such as a long sleeve shirt or leggings made from a synthetic material, will help wick away sweat and keep you comfortable. Add a mid-layer, such as a fleece jacket, for added warmth. And in very cold weather or if you know you will be sweating a lot, consider adding an outer layer for protection from the elements, such as a waterproof jacket.
As for footwear, closed toe shoes are a must when rock climbing. They will protect your feet from scrapes and bruises and help you keep a good grip on the rocks. In warm weather, lightweight sneakers or approach shoes are typically all that is needed. In cooler weather, you may want to consider wearing thicker socks and adding a shoe cover or gator for added warmth. And in very cold weather conditions, insulated boots may be necessary
The best rock climbing gear for beginners
As a beginner, you don’t need the most expensive or fancy gear to start rock climbing. In fact, you can get started with just a few basic items of clothing and equipment. Here’s what you need to get started:
-A pair of comfortable, well-fitting shoes: You don’t need special rock climbing shoes to start, but you will need a pair of sneakers or running shoes that fit well and offer good support. Avoid shoes with too much tread, as they can make it difficult to grip the rocks.
-A comfortable pair of shorts or pants: Again, there is no need for special climbing clothing, but you will want to avoid anything too loose or baggy that could catch on something while you are climbing. A pair of shorts or sweatpants that fit snugly but are not constricting is ideal.
-A T-shirt or tank top: You want something that will allow your skin to breathe and won’t absorb sweat. A cotton T-shirt or tank top is perfect. Avoid anything made from synthetic materials like polyester, as they can cause discomfort when wet with sweat.
-A windbreaker or light jacket: This is optional but can be nice to have if the day turns out cooler than expected.
-Chalk: Chalk helps absorb moisture and keeps your hands dry, which improves your grip on the rocks. A small chalk bag that you can wear around your waist is all you need.
How to choose the right rock climbing shoes
One of the most important pieces of gear for rock climbing is your shoes. They need to be comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time, while also giving you the precision and edging power you need to climb difficult routes.
It can be tricky to find the right pair of shoes, but there are a few things you can keep in mind when shopping. First, consider what type of climbing you’ll be doing most often. If you’re mostly bouldering or sport climbing, you’ll want a shoe that’s relatively tight-fitting and has good edging power. For trad and multi-pitch climbing, a looser shoe that’s more comfortable for long days on the rock might be a better choice.
Next, think about the shape of your foot and whether you have any problem areas that need to be addressed. For example, if you have high arches, you might want a shoe with more padding to prevent pain when bouldering. Or if you have wide feet, you might want to look for a shoe with a roomier toe box.
Finally, don’t forget to factor in your budget when shopping for shoes. It’s important to find a pair that fits well and meets your needs, but it’s also important not to spend more than you need to. There are plenty of great options out there at different price points, so take some time to compare before making your final decision.
The essential rock climbing gear list
Whether you’re just getting started in the sport of rock climbing or you’re a seasoned veteran, it’s important to have the right gear. The essential rock climbing gear list below will help make sure you have everything you need for a safe and successful climb.
Climbing Harness: A must-have for every climber, a harness secures you to the rope and connects you to your safety gear. Look for a comfortable, adjustable harness that fits snugly and won’t rub or chafe during long days of climbing.
Climbing Shoes: Climbing shoes are designed to give you leverage and grip on small holds and edges. They should fit snugly but not be too tight, and they should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. There are many different types of shoes available, so talk to an experienced climber or visit a local climbing shop to find the best shoe for your foot type and climbing style.
Belay Device: A belay device is a crucial piece of safety equipment that helps control the rope while belaying (or holding) your partner. There are many different types of belay devices on the market, so again, it’s best to get advice from an experienced climber or shop employee before making a purchase.
Carabiners: Carabiners are strong, metal clips that are used to attach your rope to your harness and other gear. Look for carabiners that are rated for climbing and that have screw-lock or auto-locking mechanisms to prevent accidental unhooking.
Chalk Bag: Chalk keeps your hands dry and provides added grip, which is essential for difficult climbs. A chalk bag attaches to your harness and has a drawstring closure to keep your chalk from spilling out. Be sure to get one with a wide opening so you can easily access the chalk when you need it.
How to properly care for your rock climbing gear
It is critical to take proper care of your rock climbing gear, both to ensure your safety while climbing and to prolong the life of your equipment. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your gear:
-Ropes must be inspected regularly for damage, and should be retired if they show signs of wear.
-Climbing shoes should be cleaned after each use, and the soles should be resoled as needed.
-Carabiners should be inspected regularly for damage, and replaced if they show signs of wear or if the gates do not function properly.
-Cams and other climbers protection devices should be inspected regularly for damage, and replaced if they show signs of wear or if the teeth are damaged.
-Chalk bags should be emptied after each use, and the lining should be replaced as needed.
The best places to buy rock climbing gear
There are a few things you need to take into consideration when purchasing gear for rock climbing. The most important thing is to find gear that fits you well and is comfortable to use. You also want gear that is tough and will hold up to the wear and tear of climbing. Here are some of the best places to buy rock climbing gear:
REI – REI is a great place to find both new and used gear for rock climbing. They have a wide selection of gear from all the major brands, and their prices are very competitive. They also have a great return policy, so if you’re not happy with your purchase you can always return it.
The Gear Co-op – The Gear Co-op is another great option for buying rock climbing gear. They offer both new and used gear, and their prices are very reasonable. They also have a good return policy, so if you’re not satisfied with your purchase you can always return it.
Mountain Project Gear Shop – The Mountain Project Gear Shop is a great place to find both new and used gear for rock climbing. They offer a wide selection of gear from all the major brands, and their prices are very competitive. They also have a great return policy, so if you’re not happy with your purchase you can always return it.
Rock climbing gear rental companies
Renting gear is a great way to try out different types of equipment to see what you like before you buy it. It’s also more economical than purchasing gear, and it can be a lifesaver if you forget to pack something essential for your trip. Here are some of the best rock climbing gear rental companies out there.
Black Diamond Equipment Rentals: Black Diamond is a well-known name in the climbing world, and for good reason. They offer high-quality equipment that’s built to last, and their rental fleet is no exception. You can rent everything from climbing shoes and harnesses to camping gear and Climbing skins.
REI: REI is another great option for renting rock climbing gear. They offer a wide variety of equipment for rent, including Climbing shoes, harnesses, carabiners, chalk bags, and more. Their online reservation system makes it easy to find and reserve the gear you need for your trip.
Mountain Project: Mountain Project is an online community of climbers that offers gear rentals as well as used gear for sale. Their rental fleet includes a wide variety of climbing shoes, harnesses, belay devices, chalk bags, and more. You can also find used gear for sale on their website.
Climb On: Climb On is a small company that specializes in renting rock climbing equipment. They offer a wide variety of climbing shoes, harnesses, belay devices, chalk bags, and more. Their online reservation system makes it easy to find and reserve the gear you need for your trip
How to store your rock climbing gear
Rock climbing is a physically and mentally demanding sport that requires proper equipment and preparation. Here are some tips on how to store your rock climbing gear so it stays in good condition:
-Wash all of your gear, including your harness, chalk bag, and shoes, with mild soap and water after each use.
-Be sure to dry your gear completely before storing it.
-Store your gear in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
-Inspect your gear regularly for wear and tear, and replace any damaged items.
