Rock climbing is a thrilling activity. The idea that you can literally conquer a mountain is an unbelievable feeling that you’ll remember for the rest of your life. So much so that many get hooked on rock climbing for the adrenaline-pumping and of course the fantastic workout, no doubt hoping to climb K2 one day. What’s also great is that you can rock climb all over the world, so no matter where you are, you know there’s some adventure awaiting you on your travels!
So, you’ve got the rock climbing spirit and you’re looking for somewhere amazing to scale, but first things first, what rock climbing gear are you going to take with you? There is a lot of gear to think about, such as harnesses, ropes, belay devices, carabiners, and chalk, but here are three more items we think are absolutely essential.
Shoes
When you’re rock climbing, it’s no time for any old trainers – you’ll need some serious footwear specially designed for the mountain. Shoes that are very snug and well-fitting are best, as you need to have incredible grip and no room for error. There are a lot of great companies out there who stock fantastic climbing shoes, but one, in particular, is a brand called La Sportiva. These are super lightweight, breathable, and will practically fit like a glove around your feet. You can see the range here.
Watch
It might be the case that you’re doing a speed run, in which you’ve got to get to a summit before a certain time. If so, you can’t exactly take out your phone constantly; you’re going to need a strong and reliable watch to help you keep track of time. Which wristwatch you choose can depend a lot on your budget and style preferences, but something that can at least withstand a few likely scrapes and bangs is definitely a necessity. Military watches are designed to take a beating and display the time coherently, so be sure to browse through these options and see if there’s something for you.
Helmet
“Safety first” is a phrase that gets said a lot when attempting a new sport or activity, but it has never been truer than for rock climbing. Nature can be unpredictable and harsh, so a strong helmet is absolutely necessary when you start your climb. A helmet can protect you from falling debris, accidental knocks onto the rock, a wayward foot from another climber, and of course in case of a fall. Take your time with this choice, as your helmet should be extremely comfortable and fit properly. There are several types available depending on your type of climbing (ice, warm-weather, mountaineering and so on), so read through this guide to find out which helmet is best for your requirements.
