Before diving into the world of climbing, it’s important to understand the basic gear you’ll need and how to get it. This article will give you an introduction to the essentials, with more detailed advice on each item in future posts. Whether you’re a complete beginner or simply looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will help you start your climbing journey the right way.
Start Indoors: The Climbing Gym Advantage
If you're new to climbing, I highly recommend starting at a climbing gym. It's a safe, controlled environment where you can build skills and connect with fellow climbers. In fact, it’s in these gyms where you’ll begin to build your climbing community. Finding partners is key to the sport, and I'll cover tips on that in another article.
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is what type of climbing you want to try. Rope climbing and bouldering each require different gear, so don’t rush the decision—try both first. If you don’t have a climbing partner yet, bouldering is an easy place to start since you don’t need a partner to participate. For your first session, all you’ll need are climbing shoes and chalk—though you can skip the chalk at first if you want.
Buying Gear: Take It Slow
When it comes to buying gear, don't feel like you need to purchase everything at once. Take your time, explore the sport, and buy items as you go. One of the first investments you'll make will be in a pair of climbing shoes. Climbing shoes can be pricey, so if you’re not sure about committing to the sport yet, you can rent them at the gym. Alternatively, buying second-hand is also a great option. Many climbers sell barely-used shoes for cheap, especially when they buy the wrong size. Facebook Marketplace is popular in nearly every country.
However, if you’re new to climbing, avoid buying shoes online until you’ve had a chance to try them on in person. Climbing shoes fit differently than regular shoes, and some brands run small because advanced climbers often size down for a tighter fit. For now, stick with shoes that are comfortable—you don't need to size down. After a few sessions, you might outgrow your first pair, but at least you won’t have spent a fortune on them. As you progress in the sport and specialize in different climbing disciplines, you'll likely invest in different types of shoes anyway. For now, prioritize comfort.
Considering Autobelay? Here's What You Need
If bouldering feels too intimidating, autobelay is a great option for solo climbing. For this, you’ll need a harness. Choosing a harness can feel overwhelming with the wide variety available, but to keep it simple, proper fit is the most important factor.
Your harness’s waist belt should sit over your hips, snug enough that it can't be pulled down. Ideally, the buckle adjustment should be positioned about halfway through its range, not maxed out at either end. Leg loops should be comfortable, but they don’t need to be overly tight.
Remember, climbing is a journey - start slow, focus on comfort and safety, and let your gear evolve as you grow in the sport.