Picture this: the sun on your back whist you’re perched on an outdoor rock. There’s nothing quite like it! Rock climbing is a great activity to start during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic because 1) you can do it from a socially safe distance and 2) you can give yourself a wonderful whole body workout.
Much like other sport and exercise, there’s a lot of different climbs and climbers out there. You’ve got your gym climbers, people who prefer the great outdoors, and people who enjoy a great mix of the two! Whether you’ve been tackling climbing at the gym and are ready to take your newly acquired skills onto some real rock, a hobbyist or you’re a seasoned climber, safe equipment is essential as rock climbing is dangerous.
Awareness all comes down to hazards of the climb and also matching your skills and experience to the dangers to decrease the risks. That means not tackling something you’re not quite ready for. If you’re a total beginner, there are many classes out there on the fundamentals of rock climbing etiquette as well as what equipment is required.
Here at My Climbing Gear, we pride ourselves on offering the highest of quality gear that’s designed to make you a better climber. Let’s take a look at some of the kit you’ll need in order to tackle your next climb.
Climbing harnesses
First and foremost, the number one piece of kit you’ll need whatever your experience or whatever your climb looks like is a harness. Most harnesses are primarily designed to distribute weight evenly and catch you when you fall or slip. There are a lot of harnesses out there on the market all designed for very specific and unique needs. Sport climbing does not require a ton of equipment or a climber to hang heavy gear from their harness. You want something with minimal features and for the focus to be on the leg loops and waist belts. Eliminating unneeded features from a harness not only makes it easier to use, but allows you to push yourself harder.
Our outdoor climbing safety belt is a great choice for this! This belt is wide and thick with high quality and density weaving for strong tension resistance. It comes with adjustable waist and leg bands for extra comfort and security, and is suitable for all climbing activities.
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Climbing rope
You’ve got your harness sorted, now what’s next? Rope, of course! There are three main types of climbing ropes available: there are single ropes, half ropes and twin ropes. Single ropes are typically used for climbing walls and traditional climbing routes. These are your best bet as they’re versatile and usually range in thickness from 8.9 to 11mm and come in lengths between 50 and 70 meters.
Shop a wide range of climbing rope here.
Trekking Climbing Mountain Shoes
If you’re a seasoned climber, chances are you have dedicated shoes and favourite ones to wear whilst climbing. Rock climbing shoes enable you to reach your peak performance (yes, pun intended!). The rubber soles do a great job protecting your feet, but also give you the friction and durability you need to grip footholds during your climb!
Whether you’re looking to replace your beloved pair that’s seen better days or looking to add to your wardrobe, there’s nothing better than My Climbing Gear’s Trekking Climbing Mountain Shoes!
Key features include:
FAST LACING SYSTEM - Quick-pull lacing harness allows for precise regulation of inner volumes; Wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort
ALL-AROUND PERFORMANCE - Designed to help intermediate climbers smear, hook, and edge like pros; The aggressive rubber heel rand, sticky FriXion RS rubber soles, and low-asymmetry RN45 build let climbers find purchase on edges with great sensitivity and without pain or cramping
CLIMB IN COMFORT - From the gym to the crags, the classic unlined leather upper is soft and comfortable; Lined tongue controls moisture and enhances breathability; Synthetic leather overlay adds just the right level of support
BUILT TO LAST - This indoor/outdoor climbing shoe is constructed from high quality materials; 1.8mm LaspoFlex at the midsole and 5mm FriXion RS at the sole make the TarantuLace as stable as it is durable
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Helmet
Whatever sport you’re doing, beginner or not, a helmet is almost always recommended. And it’s no different when it comes to both rock climbing or indoor climbing! After the gear we’ve just spoken about, a helmet is another essential piece of rock climbing equipment.
Like most other helmets, climbing helmets are generally designed to provide protection in case of a fall. When it comes to outdoor climbing, the helmet actually serves several purposes! Whatever form of outdoor climbing you’re doing, the helmet is there cushion your head from falling rock and debris.
You want your helmet to fit snugly so it’s not loose and to sit flat on your head. It shouldn’t feel too tight either!
Shop a wide range of helmets here.
Carabiners
A carabiner or a ‘biner is a strong and light ring that is used to connect the climbing rope with various other pieces of protection you’re using whilst climbing! Picture things like nuts, bolts and camming devices.
They are typically made using a combination of steel and plastic. Carabiners contain a gate which allows the climbing rope to pass through with ease. These handy little things can be attached to both clothing and equipment to enable climbers to move up and down a wall or rock face.
You use multiple whilst climbing. The first carabiner a rock climbing beginner will use is a locking ‘biner. This is designed to be used with a belay device. Carabiners come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, it’s all about finding what the right fit is for you!
Shop a wide range of carabiners here.
Quickdraws
A quickdraw, also known as an extender, is another very useful piece of rock climbing equipment. These are made up of two of our trust carabiners and are connected by a texture sling. These are used by rock climbers as they allow the climbing rope to run freely through whatever equipment they’re using whilst leading. This could be bolt anchors or some other form of protection.
Similar to other forms of rocking climbing protection, the purpose of a quickdraw varies depending on what type of climb you’re doing!
Chalk
You must not forget about chalk! As we have already mentioned numerous times over the course of this article, grip is one of the most important factors when it comes to rock climbing. If you have never used chalk before, absolutely take it on your next climb. Listen to us, when we say it’s vital!
Chalk does a fantastic job of improving your grip. It absorbs sweat and forms of moisture your body produces on both your hands and skin. The chalk will not only prevent rubbing and chafing, it will increase friction too. Again, this is something you want!
A lot of forms of climbing chalk are made from an element called Magnesium Carbonate. If you’re wondering where you’ve heard this before, it is the same compound that gymnasts and weightlifters use to improve their grip when working with workout equipment like barbells and dumbbells.
As it’s 2020 and we are all eco-conscious now, it’s important to try do your bit for the planet whilst you enjoy rock climbing activities. To reduce environmental impact, you should aim to use a chalk that matches the colour of the rock you’re climbing. It is good practice among rock climbers. If you are climbing at an indoor centre or at a gym, chances are they’ll advise you use a chalk sack that will reduce dust dispersion - which brings us to our next point…
Chalk Bag
So, you’ve just read the above and are convinced you need chalk for your next climb. Great! You’ll need a trusty chalk bag to bring along so you can store it. They don’t have to be unattractive either, you can absolutely opt for both style and substance! Chalk bags are one of the few rock climbing items that are actually deemed fashionable. There’s plenty of styles to choose from as well as chalk bags that come with special features.
Whatever bag you choose, one thing you need to bare in mind is width. Your bag not only needs to be wide enough to fit your hand but also suitable for the type of chalk you’re going to be using. If you are planning to go on longer climbs, go for a cylindrical bag. Tapered bags are best suited for shorter climbing routes.
Contact My Climbing Gear
If you are looking for more tips and advice designed to make you a better climber, as well as a wide range of name brand climbing gear and apparel, check out My Climbing Gear today!
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