Basic Rock Climbing Gear
James Hunt
We’ve all seen rock climbers on television or in the movies.
Climbing rocks and cliffs take skill and endurance. In case you
were thinking about taking up rock climbing, a listing of the
necessary equipment is outlined below.
Shoes: You can’t wear your everyday hiking boots to climb a rock.
Your shoe should be stiff and fit like a glove. Snug but not too
tight. Because comfort is a concern, it’s best not to mail order
shoes for rock climbing, you’ll definitely want to try them on
first.
Harness: A harness is worn for safety and attaches to a rope so
you won’t fall off the rock. Your sales associate will help you
find a harness that fits properly, but you’ll want to be sure the
harness fits comfortably around your thighs and waist.
Carbiners: These are actually hooks. You’ll use these to attach
different items to your harness.
Helmet: This very important piece of rock climbing equipment will
protect your head from falling debris. It will also guard you
against bumps and bruises if you should happen to bang against a
wall. This may in fact, be the most important piece of rock
climbing equipment you own. Make sure you try on your helmet
prior to purchasing and that it fits comfortably.
Chalk: Rubbed on your hands, chalk will help you grip rocks.
Comes in powdered or ball form.
Chalk Bag: Holds chalk and attaches to your harness.
Rope: Rope should be 10 or 11 millimeters in diameter and 50 to
60 meters long and should be able to stretch a bit under tension
to protect a climber in the event of a fall.
Belay Device: This is used to hold a climber’s rope. It helps
the belayer protect the climber.
If you’re interested in rock climbing but don’t know where to
start, be sure to do your research. Not only are there plenty of
books available, but there are articles all over the internet.
It’s strongly urged that you take lessons with an experienced
instructor. If you’re unsure of the proper equipment, your
instructor or experienced sales person can help you with this.
It’s better to pay extra money to ensure safety than get
seriously injured or worse because you don’t know what you’re
doing.
James Hunt has spent 15 years as a professional writer and
researcher covering stories that cover a whole spectrum of
interest. Read more at
www.rock-climbing-guide.info
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