Welcome to the world of rock climbing, where the rush of completing a climb is incredibly addictive, but the gear costs can be overwhelming. You’ve probably seen seasoned climbers with multiple pairs of shoes strapped to their backpacks, countless chalk bags, and fancy rope tarps, making you feel like you need all that to get started. The good news? You don’t have to break the bank. All you need to start climbing are just a few essential shoes and a chalk bag.
Your climbing gear might change depending on whether you’re bouldering, climbing outdoors, or using a rope, but no matter the discipline, climbing shoes and a chalk bag are the essentials you’ll always need. If you’re unsure about the terminology, don’t worry. A guide to all the essential gear required to get started without breaking the bank. Outdoor climbing is more accessible than it seems, and with the right equipment, you can enjoy the sport safely and affordably. So, let’s dive in and get you ready to hit the rocks!
Learning to Climb Outdoors
Climbing outdoors shares many of the same skills as gym climbing but also comes with challenges. You’ll need to do more prep work, ensure you have the right gear, and learn new techniques to stay safe and enjoy the adventure.
Discover a Guide
The ideal way to start outdoor climbing is by learning from a certified guide or an experienced instructor skilled in teaching beginners in natural settings. A good instructor will show you the ropes of climbing in natural settings and teach you essential skills like setting and cleaning your anchors, helping you gain confidence and safety in the elements. Whether heading to a local crag or tackling your first outdoor route, having an expert can make all the difference in your experience and safety.
Beginner-Friendly Outdoor Climbing Options
Outdoor climbing styles vary in difficulty, requiring different levels of experience. Below are the best options for beginners heading outdoors for the first time.
- Bouldering: Bouldering is a fantastic way to dive into outdoor climbing without needing ropes or harnesses. It involves climbing on rock faces, boulders, and other low-to-the-ground surfaces, making it less intimidating for beginners since you’re closer to the earth. It’s a great way to learn new techniques and build strength, but while the risk of injury is lower, it’s still essential to have safety in mind. If you’re new to bouldering, you can join an introductory class or head out with more experienced climbers who can act as spotters to guide you safely through your climbs.
- Top-Rope Climbing: Top-rope climbing outdoors is similar to what you’ve experienced in the gym, with you climbing toward an anchor at the top while your guide or instructor belays you. The main difference is that outside, you’ll be using natural handholds and footholds that aren’t as clearly marked as the gym routes. Because of this, your instructor will probably start you off on easier routes to help you get comfortable with the new environment and the different types of climbing.
Advanced Climbing Techniques
Sport Climbing
Outdoor sport climbing routes usually feature bolts drilled into the rock, and climbers must carry quickdraws to clip into these anchors. When you start sport climbing, you’ll first practice a technique called “mock lead climbing,” which involves using a rope you clip into and a top rope. This method lets you get used to clipping into bolts without falling too far if you make a mistake. As you progress to lead climbing, you’ll no longer rely on a top rope for safety. Instead, you clip into bolts as you ascend, and if you slip, you’ll fall farther than you would in mock lead climbing since each bolt you clip into is your only point of protection.
Outdoor Climbing Etiquette
Just like any outdoor activity, climbing comes with a code of conduct, and it’s essential as more gym climbers transition to outdoor areas. With limited climbing spots available, following Leave No Trace principles is crucial to help protect these environments. According to the Access Fund, which works to advocate for climbers, about one in five climbing areas have been closed due to liability concerns or because climbers no longer have permission to access them. Respecting these spaces helps ensure they remain open and accessible for everyone.
- Be considerate of other climbers.
- Properly dispose of human waste.
- Park and camp only in designated areas.
- Stick to marked trails.
- Set up gear and pads on sturdy, durable surfaces.
- Remove chalk and tick marks after use.
- Maintain a low profile by keeping group sizes slight and minimizing noise.
- Carry out all trash, crash pads, and gear.
- Respect closures.
- Be an upstander, not a bystander.
Essential Equipment for Outdoor Climbing: What You Need to Know
If you’re new to climbing or have only experienced indoor walls, the gear needed for outdoor rock climbing might seem daunting, mysterious, thrilling, and sometimes pricey. Here is a list of essential gear to get started.
Your first climb will likely involve top-rope climbing or following an experienced leader. You’ll need the same essential gear as indoor climbing: a harness, a belay device, and sturdy shoes. It’s a simple setup to get started and focus on building confidence and skills.
Additionally, you’ll require the following:
- Properly Fitting Climbing Helmet for Safety: Some climbers choose not to wear a helmet, but playing it safe when starting is wise. Before you gain experience and learn to assess risks more accurately, wearing a helmet is a simple way to protect yourself and confidently climb.
- Outdoor Clothing and Sturdy Footwear for Climbing: Getting to an outdoor crag can be an adventure, with muddy trails, rocky paths, and unpredictable weather. Once you arrive, it might be windy, chilly, or even a bit wet, so it’s a good idea to bring sturdy shoes and clothing that’ll keep you warm and dry. Being prepared will make the whole experience a lot more enjoyable. Some essential gear might be provided if you’re heading out for a course, so check ahead. It’s also worth considering a few extra items that can be handy, such as snacks, water, or even a small first-aid kit. A little planning goes a long way when you’re climbing outdoors!
- Climbing Gear Cleaning Nut Tool: This is handy for removing any protective gear your lead climber has placed during the climb, making the process smoother and more efficient as you follow up.
- Climbing Guidebook for Outdoor Routes: Unlike indoor climbing gyms, real crags don’t have brightly colored holds to guide you along the route, so getting lost or unsure where to go next is easy. That’s where a reliable guidebook becomes invaluable, offering essential information and insights for a successful climbing experience. A guidebook will show you the best routes and key features to look for and help you confidently navigate the crag. It’s an essential tool to keep you on track and make your outdoor climbing experience more enjoyable.
- Water, Snacks, and a Thermos of Tea for Breaks: Time tends to fly by when you’re out climbing; before you know it, it’ll be time for a break. You’ll be so caught up in the adventure that elevenses will sneak up on you! It’s always a good idea to plan for a snack and take a moment to recharge. Whether it’s a quick bite or just a pause to enjoy the view, these little breaks can make your day even more enjoyable.
As you progress in your climbing journey, you’ll notice the need for more specialized gear to match your growing skills. The more you climb, the more tailored your equipment will become to suit different challenges.
- Lead Climbing Gear: As you progress into lead climbing, you’ll need a rope and a rack of protective gear. These essentials will allow you to climb independently, giving you the confidence to take more challenging routes while ensuring safety.
- Sport Climbing Gear: Sport climbing requires specialized equipment for bolted routes. Be sure to carry a set of quickdraws to securely connect your rope to the bolts along the climb, ensuring safe and efficient progression.
- Slings and Carabiners: Besides quickdraws, having one or two slings and a few screwgate carabiners is essential. These items offer added flexibility and security, helping you manage your gear and ensure climbing safety.
- Traditional Climbing Gear: In conventional climbing, where gear placements are not fixed, you’ll need tools like nuts and hexes to secure cracks’ protection. Additionally, slings and camming devices are crucial for versatility, giving you the protection needed for wider cracks and more technical climbs.
Master the Essentials for a Safe and Successful Climbing Adventure
Rock climbing is an exciting and rewarding adventure, but starting with the right gear and knowledge is essential to ensure safety and success. Whether you’re bouldering, top-rope climbing, or venturing into more advanced techniques like sport or traditional climbing, the essentials climbing shoes, a chalk bag, a harness, and a helmet—will always be your foundation. As you gain experience, you’ll naturally expand your gear collection to match your climbing goals. Remember, every climb is a chance to learn, grow, and enjoy the outdoors, so stay safe and be prepared.
