
In the event of a fall, the belayer locks the rope in place to catch the climber. The other end is connected to the harness of a stationary second person, or belayer, whose job is to keep slack out of the rope while allowing it to move freely as you, the climber, go up or down. When you’re climbing on a rope, one end is tied to your harness. Stiffer loops make it easier to quickly add and remove gear. Nearly all harnesses feature gear loops for attaching equipment. Men’s and women’s harnesses account for different pelvic structures women’s models include a greater distance, or rise, between the leg loops and the waist. Once tightened, the waist belt should sit just above the top of your hips, with the end of the waist strap extending several inches past the buckle. Look for a model that adjusts to fit snugly and comfortably around your waist and upper thighs. Harnesses come in different sizes and feature two leg loops and a waist belt secured with a metal buckle, sometimes two.

Ready to climb higher? You’ll need a climbing harness ($50 to $100). A multitude of styles are available look for a wire-stiffened opening that makes it easy to slip your fingers in and out. To keep fingers dry, most climbers keep powdered chalk at the ready in a chalk bag secured around the waist ($15 to $30). A range of styles is available, although beginners generally should look for stiffer soles, thicker rubber, and a flatter shoe profile ($75 to $150).ĭamp, sweaty hands make it difficult to securely latch onto small handholds. The first thing you’ll want is a pair of climbing shoes: form-fitting and slipper-like footwear that features extra-grippy rubber on the sole for adhering to rock.

Here’s what you need to know to get started. Most climbing gyms rent the essentials-shoes, harness, and belay device-giving you the opportunity to try it all out before investing the big bucks. 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. It can also be intimidating, given all of the gear and lingo that comes with it. Rock climbing can be an exhilarating adventure into the vertical realm. Finding the best climbing gear for beginners can be a challenge, but we’ve got you covered with these essential tips.
