Beginner rock climbing gear An REI sales specialist can help you choose a shoe that fits properly and meets your needs. By Tom Ward 8 min read Published on 05/28/2025 · 3:50 PM UTC Feb 8, 2020 · Thankfully, you can buy rock climbing starter kits to jumpstart your newfound climbing addiction. Shop No Jul 30, 2024 · Discover essential gear and techniques for rock climbing beginners. We spoke with John McDonough, a climber with more than 20 years under For harness I used the black diamond momentum… got it at REI for 64 bucks. This is bomber, save-your-ass gear that’ll get you started with trad climbing, but a word of caution: it’s only as good as the climber using it. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential Understanding the Basics of Climbing Gear. 1 Learn the basic techniques; 3 Choosing your climbing gear. Rock climbing offers a wide range of physical and mental benefits. Nov 6, 2024 · Learn how to start rock climbing with this beginner’s guide. Rock climbing has a broad range of disciplines, with each requiring differing types of gear and training. To learn basic climbing terms before you get started, check out our Rock Climbing Glossary. Aug 12, 2020 · This article covers gear for top-roping and sport climbing routes for beginners tagging along with more experienced climbers. Outdoor bouldering is a great first step into sending real rock. Jump start your climbing journey, expand your community, and have some fun! The Beginner Rock Climbing Package includes intro classes, unlimited access to the gym for 30 days, and all rental gear needed. If you’re looking for beginner indoor climbing shoes, you can find our recommendations here. Top-roping in the gym is great but you want more adventure… Well this mini bundle of climbing gear including a belay device, safety sling and two locking carabiners opens doors. Starter Packages consist of an introductory climbing + belay + safety lesson, plus all the gear and equipment needed; harness, shoes, chalk bag, belay device. Plus all climbing equipment is included. In the beginning, you can use your regular hiking backpack, however once you get ropes and more gear, you’ll want a climbing specific rope bag. While many provide equipment, you’ll eventually want to buy rock climbing gear of your own. Editor's Note: We updated this review on April 22, 2025, to ensure our pricing was correct for our shoe lineup. Bouldering (Indoors) Climbing shoes – Some climbers have a preference for ultra-tight shoes, but as a beginner, you should aim for comfort before performance. Aug 1, 2024 · Discover essential rock climbing gear for beginners. Expect to pay: $80-120. 3 Carabiners; 3. Dec 10, 2021 · Buying rock climbing gear can be as clear as a puddle of mud. Feb 28, 2024 · Whether you’re a beginner looking to try indoor climbing for the first time or an experienced climber seeking new challenges on natural rock formations, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential tips, techniques, and gear knowledge to enhance your climbing experience. 4 Climbing shoes; 3. Typical indoor climbing gear includes a pair of climbing shoes, a harness (for rope climbing), and a chalk Jan 16, 2020 · Well the great news when it comes to climbing is that unlike other sports, like mountain biking for example, rock climbing doesn’t force you to do a big financial outlay straight off the bat to get into the sport. rock climbing. These items are fundamental for new climbers to start learning the sport. Apr 3, 2025 · There are two types of climbing most gyms offer: top roping and bouldering. 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 an exhilarating challenge that tests your strength, skill, and courage against nature's raw beauty. Rock climbing gear for improvers . 2. In fact, to start your rock climbing gear supply you only need to outlay as much as a standard mountain biking helmet to get you 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. Importance: Necessary. Here are the key components: 3 days ago · All-around climbing, gym climbing, beginners: Fixed leg loops, simple, no-frills design: Black Diamond Momentum: $65 12. 3 oz: Beginner, sport climbing: Adjustable Leg Loops, Bullhorn-shaped waist belt May 13, 2025 · Take a Class or Join a Gym: Indoor climbing gyms offer beginner classes to teach knots, belaying, and safety protocols. It protects your head from falling rocks, ice, and other debris, as well as from impacts during falls. As a beginner, the right gear is indispensable for ensuring your safety and boosting your confidence as you navigate the climbing routes. Before starting rock climbing, it is essential to receive training and advice. Dec 14, 2023 · What You’ll Need for Rock Climbing. During your climbing guided tour, your climbing guide will share the best climbing near Denver. Trust us; these are not merely suggestions—they're stepping stones toward becoming one of those awe-inspiring climbers you see conquering towering cliffs and mind-bending routes. I'll guide you through the basics, safety tips, and must-have equipment for rock climbing for beginners. STATIC Traveler Chalk Bag Improve your grip and fight off sweaty palms with Metolius Super chalk and the stylish blanket-weave STATIC Traveler bag . A Coaching Session with @CatalystClimbingLouis Parkinson. NOTE: Please choose carefully - Do to its critical nature Person Protection Equipment (PPE) is not returnable. it has nice padding and easy slider adjust. In this video I break down what gear your really need to start climbing. Our favorite beginner climbing shoes. What climbing gear you should buy first, and what gear you may want later on in you Dec 16, 2019 · The best rock climbing gear for beginners. Shop climbing shoes Apr 22, 2025 · Climbing runs deep in GearLab's roots, and we've tested a lot of climbing gear over the years. If you have never climbed before or want to upgrade from rental gear, this rock climbing gear list has all the beginner climbing essentials you need to start your journey into the vertical world. These climbing packages offer great value and bundle the worlds best brands of rock shoes, climbing harness, chalk bag and chalk. Climbing Shoes: Fit: Look for shoes that fit snugly but are not painfully tight. Harness: Comfort: Choose a harness with adequate padding for comfort during Apr 13, 2018 · Rock Climbing Gear For Beginners. I find it a bit silly because bouldering is one of many types of rock climbing! Indoor rock climbing is comprised of both unroped and roped climbing. If you’re a beginner rock climber and learning the basics at an indoor gym, they'll provide the rock climbing gear for you. Climbing Helmet. It helps improve strength, flexibility, and balance as you navigate the various holds and positions on the rock. Jul 31, 2024 · Rock climbing is a phenomenal hobby and the perfect outdoor or indoor activity for thrill seekers and those wanting a physical challenge. It can also be intimidating, given all of the gear and lingo that comes with it. Key Considerations for Beginner Rock Climbing Gear. Rock climbing can be an exhilarating adventure into the vertical realm. Nov 28, 2021 · The following lists summarize the gear and equipment you’ll need for the various rock climbing methods described in this article. Written by Tom Ward. Do not skimp on time or resources to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills before venturing into climbing. Whether it’s a harness, crash pad, or even just a chalk bag, the Oct 15, 2024 · Rock climbing offers an exhilarating blend of physical challenge and mental fortitude, attracting countless enthusiasts each year. Aug 7, 2024 · Rock climbing gear for beginners Kai Burkhardt/CNN Underscored. 6 to 5. This can be an introduction to rock climbing or something more advanced. Are you wondering how to get from first-time gumby to proficient expert as quickly as possible? That’s where we come in with our very best rock climbing tips for beginners. Participants must be 14 years or older. Learn more by reading our article, Rock Climbing Shoes: How to Choose. Essentials. Whether you’re a beginner at the gym or a seasoned trad fiend eyeing your next ultra classic multi-pitch, these climbing gear packages will keep your wallet full and your closet stocked. It can seem like there are a lot of climbing essentials, but you don’t need to go all out right at the start. Find tips on climbing types, gear, techniques, and safety for new climbers. Just as you’ll want to learn climbing skills from the ground up, it’s helpful to get acquainted with the basic equipment you’ll need. Step 1: Understand Climbing Disciplines. Most rock climbing gear is transferable between different kinds of climbing. Seriously, with all the different manufacturers and types of gear, it can be a little overwhelming. You’ve bought a climbing gym membership, but now you need your first pair of indoor climbing shoes! Arguably, climbing shoes may be the most important gear in a climber’s quiver. Rock climbing shoes: These flexible shoes with grippy soles should fit snugly without hurting your feet. Rock climbing gear is more than just fancy equipment—it’s your lifeline when you're scaling high cliffs. After your lesson, stay for a climbing session with full access to all climbing areas + fitness equipment. 5 Helmet; 3. Nut tool; Slings & carabiners; Climbing rope; Quickdraws; Trad rack; Crash pad; Climbing Shoes. So you’ve caught the climbing bug, and now all you can think about is rock climbing. for a good pair of starter shoes I would recommend the LA sportiva tarantulace (90 bucks), they fit comfortably and break in easy they have laces which I liked because if felt more secure… beefy toe pads and good heal pad all around solid shoe Sep 20, 2023 · The SCARPA Vapor S can carry a sport climber well beyond beginner grades; (photo/Seiji Ishii) A little further up the ability scale, but still appropriate for those just starting out at the crags Oct 1, 2019 · Scoop up this beginner-friendly gear and you’ll be ready to train all your focus on your next move. Having your own shoes will be more comfortable and help your climbing improve dramatically – plus you don’t have to wear stinky rental shoes anymore. From the best climbing shoes for beginners to the specific materials you should look out for, here’s everything you need to know as you start out. This is everything you need to get top-roping, provided that the top rope is already set up. Once you start to advance, you’ll need to add a bit more gear to Jan 20, 2020 · Ok, so you’ve started to really love climbing. Walk into any climbing gear shop and you might feel like you've entered a hardware store on another planet. 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. Helmet’s help protect you from rock (or gear) that may fall from above you. It is recommended to spend at least a year learning how to climb and use the equipment properly. Rock Climbing Shoes 5 days ago · Rock climbing gear packages are an excellent way to get new gear and save some money… so you can and your climbing partner can head out for adventures. They should allow for good foot placement. Feb 28, 2024 · Benefits of Rock Climbing for Beginners. . 15) for route difficulty. If you’re just trying out climbing for the first time, you might want to rent some gear from the climbing gym. Paul and surrounding areas by providing safe, exceptional instruction, guided outings and equipment rentals. Rock shoes ($70 - $100) No other type of climbing gear has contributed to the progression of climbing more than the rock shoe. Start on Easy Grades: Familiarise yourself with the Yosemite Decimal System (e. Learn the basics of indoor climbing equipment; Become a sought-after climbing partner that people can trust; Restrictions. 2 Climbing rope; 3. , 5. Depending on the style of climbing you pick out of the list above, you will need different gear. As with many sports, the most expensive or high-performance rock climbing gear might not always be the best for beginners, it could actually be worse! You also don’t need to get everything at once – as your climbing style develops and you nut out your preferre d type of climbing your needs will change. Maybe you've seen pictures of climbers hanging from ropes hundreds of feet above the ground. Our comprehensive reviews cover the best belay devices and climbing ropes, along with our top picks in women's harnesses. Walls lined with technicolor shoes, endless arrays of ropes, and about 80 different kinds of metal bits and pieces with names like "grigri" and "ATC" that sound more like Pokémon than climbing gear. Need Help? Jan 4, 2025 · Embarking on a climbing journey requires the right gear to ensure comfort, safety, and confidence. It certainly requires the least prep of all outdoor climbing methods, you'll just want to have your hands on all of the must-have gear from the last section, as well as: Shop climbing chalk. the best way to begin. For beginners, choosing the appropriate equipment can make all the difference in enhancing performance and enjoyment. From chalk bags (to keep hands dry) to crash pads (thick foam mats for safe landings), the right gear can turn a rocky scramble into a smooth ascent. While commercial climbing gyms differ significantly from climbing sheer rock faces out in nature in terms of difficulty and setting, both use similar climbing safety equipment. Outdoor Bouldering: Basic Starting Equipment. Here at Apr 4, 2025 · A solid harness with great features for any kind of rock climbing: A high-performing rock climbing harness at an excellent price point: Lightweight and mobile for hard sends, this harness is surprisingly comfortable for working sport climbs as well: A light and comfortable harness for single or multi-pitch sport climbing Mar 4, 2025 · Bouldering equipment is the backbone of every climber’s journey. This guide aims to demystify the essential gear for beginner climbers, focusing on items that combine quality with affordability. A harness typically consists of a waist belt and leg loops that are connected by a series of buckles and straps. Structured learning builds confidence. Learn what equipment you need, safety tips, and expert advice to start your climbing journey today! Safety is the most important aspect of climbing. Climbing also engages your entire body, from your core muscles to your fingertips, providing a full-body workout. La Sportiva Finale May 28, 2025 · Wedge yourself between a rock and a hard place in style (if not comfort) with our pick of the best rock climbing gear going. Jan 10, 2025 · But before you grab your first piece of rock climbing gear and head for the nearest boulder, let’s break down some essential skills every beginner should master. Apr 25, 2024 · Indoor Rock Climbing Gear. If you own or rent your rock climbing gear, you should always give it a thorough inspection. Jan 28, 2025 · Rock climbing is more than just a sport. Climbing Shoes Feb 8, 2020 · You get a sweet new pair of indoor climbing shoes, and I get to eat food again. You can choose to boulder, top rope or both! Sep 30, 2024 · Looking for your first pair of rock climbing shoes? We tested 30 top-rated climbing shoes in the gym, crag, and bouldering to find the best rock climbing shoes for beginners and mid-level climbers, with winners from La Sportiva, Five Ten, Black Diamond and Evolv Rock Climbing Gear Packages! A great and cost effective way to get into climbing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, this equipment list will help you prepare for your next mountain climbing adventure. Here’s a guide to the must-have climbing essentials. Register Online! IMPORTANT: Climbers under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign a liability waiver. 3. Aug 9, 2024 · Whether you’re a beginner or embarking on a new climbing adventure, our comprehensive guide aims to ensure that you have the best gear for a thrilling and secure climbing experience. These four climbing whiz kids, in addition to nearly 10 other experts ranging from professional to hobbyist climbers, researched and tested these award-winning Nov 28, 2021 · The following lists summarize the gear and equipment you’ll need for the various rock climbing methods described in this article. Mar 25, 2023 · I am always getting asked to compare bouldering vs. Basic climbing gear includes: Climbing shoes Chalk and chalk bag Climbing harness Belay device Safety sling Locking carabiners Climbing rope Quickdraws Oct 20, 2024 · 1 Why start climbing? 2 Mastering the basics of climbing. 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 Dec 3, 2021 · There is one final piece of equipment that wasn’t part of my initial essential 5 pieces of climbing gear but now I don’t go anywhere without it: my helmet. Guided adventure - Climbing instruction - Equipment rental Learn More Launched in the Fall of 2016, we are sharing our enthusiasm for rock and ice climbing with the great people of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. g. A climbing helmet is an essential piece of equipment for any mountain climber. Take a course Jan 19, 2025 · Embarking on your first rock climbing adventure is thrilling but can be daunting without the right gear. 1 Harness; 3. 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. Helmets aren’t needed for gym climbing but are a crucial piece of equipment when climbing outside. Top roping is what most people think climbing is: a tall wall with holds to get you to the top. Type: Consider beginner-friendly shoes with a moderate fit and a rubber sole for better grip. May 6, 2025 · Rounding out our women's climbing gear reviews is Jane Jackson, bringing her experience as a professional mountain guide who has worked in Yosemite, the Tetons, and parts of Alaska. The Gear packages listed here covers sport climbing, trad climbing, and bouldering. Jun 6, 2017 · The Best Climbing Gear for Beginners From the shoes to the harness to the chalk, here are a few tested basics to get you on the rock Published: Jun 6, 2017 Jul 29, 2022 · Guided excursions come with all the gear you will need and allow you to get comfortable with proper climbing gear use. Jun 21, 2024 · Chances are you’ll need to hike to the crag with your gear so you’ll want a good backpack. Sep 17, 2024 · Beginner climbers can start out by renting climbing shoes from their local gym, but shoes are the first piece of equipment you should purchase once you decide to commit to climbing for a while. Bouldering features shorter walls and is done without ropes. 6 Belay device; 4 Safety in climbing: A top priority; 5 Outdoor climbing: Respecting nature; 6 Progression: Climb at your own pace; 7 Starting Feb 9, 2020 · So you've finally tried your hand at rock climbing and it turns out you love it! The physical challenge, the social aspects, the problem solving, the feeling of defying gravity – you’ve been hooked by it all. Nov 14, 2014 · For that kind of faith, it goes without saying that you need reliable equipment, the kind that’ll save your life when you miss a hold and take a whipper from 100+ feet in the air. We’ve compiled a short list of the basics you need to rock climb (indoors or outdoors) with Our climbing locations are in Golden and Boulder, Colorado, so expect a 30-minute drive from Denver. Sep 8, 2021 · Once you’ve been climbing for a little while. Choosing the correct equipment can significantly impact your climbing experience. At the very core, climbing gear serves to facilitate movement on rock walls and provides safety measures that mitigate your risks as you navigate different routes. Get a SIGNED Version Of My NEW Collaboration T-Shirt with Rúngne! (Unsigned Available Too). Bouldering is an unroped form of rock climbing while top-rope, lead climbing, and speed climbing all require ropes. If you’re looking for help in deciding what climbing gear to purchase, look no further. Dive into our top recommendations in each category below and explore our detailed posts for more insights! For a full article on trad gear see my gear guide to trad gear. Climbing pack; Basic accessories such as climbing tape and a climbing brush; Later on, as needed. umwcku ajott upbnrh fyjub lxh purfw ktm qxxqihei git gqswvw