Rock climbing indoors doesn’t require you to pack a lot of sport climbing gear. You can even opt to rent the shoes and harness you’d use in the climb. It is entirely different when you are climbing outdoors. You have to prepare a rock climbing gear checklist suited for the route you’d be taking. The gear is essential in this sport because the things included in the list will make the climb safer and more comfortable.
Here are the essential climbing gear devices you need to have in climbing outdoors:
Shoes
Climbing rope
Climbing ropes come in two categories – static and dynamic. The first one is used in rappelling, hauling gear up a wall, or in an anchoring system. Static ropes cannot be used in belaying another climber. On the other hand, dynamic ropes are elastic and made to grip the climber’s energy in case of a fall.
There are single ropes, which are the most commonly packed in a sport climbing rack. They can be used as individual strands. The ropes used in rock climbing come in different diameters and lengths. If you want to include the kind of rope in your checklist that can serve many purposes, get a single rope with a diameter of 9.5mm to 10.2 mm and length of 60 meters.
Harness
Carabiners
When connections are not that critical, you can opt to use the non-locking type. It includes connecting your rope to something that serves as protection. You can get carabiners with various locking mechanisms, and different shapes and sizes.
Belay device
Quick-draws
Helmet
This is a must in your gear checklist. It protects your head from any dropped equipment or falling rocks or other debris. It also makes the impact less dangerous for the back of the head of a climber in case of a bad fall. You can opt to leave this out in indoor climbing, but make sure that it’s included in your climbing essentials when you are climbing outdoors.
Chalk powder
It is typically stored in a chalked bag connected to your harness. You will apply the powder to your hands to absorb sweat or moisture so that you will have a better grip.
Protection
They are devices often referred to as pro by experienced climbers. They provide you with temporary anchor points in the route as you ascend. Active protection includes cam, or a spring-loaded camming tool. It transforms a pull into pressure against the rock, making it tighter. Passive protection devices include a nut that serves as a choke when pulled.
Belay gloves
To Buy Gear Checklist
Here’s a quick list that you can check when planning to buy what you need to bring on your next climb:
Gear
- Shoes
- Helmet
- Harness
- Webbing
- Quick-draw
- Regular and locking biners
- Slings
- Pro-cleaning tool
- Tri-cams
- Cams
- Nuts
- Chalk and chalk bag
- Belay device
- Rope
- Rope bag
- Crash pad
- Accessory cord
Clothing
- Bandana
- Hat
- Rain or wind jacket
- Soft/fleece shell
- Belay gloves
- Rain or wind pants
- Shoes
Other Essentials
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp
- Compass or GPS
- Knife
- Map or guide book
- Trip plan
- Lighter or matches
- Lip balm and sunblock
- First aid kit
- Water bottles
- Food
- Repair kit
After completing your gear checklist and when you are ready to climb outdoors, make sure that you tell a friend or a loved one about your trip plan. This way, they will have an idea when you will be back and check on you if you haven’t come back on the expected date. It is best to be prepared for anything when engaging in outdoor activities.