10 Essentials For Starter Rock Climbers

This is a simple climbing setup that is appropriate for new climbers looking to do top rope (as opposed to lead) climbing.

* 1 Belay Device ($15-25) (Used to control climbers falls)

* 1 Chalk ($1-4) (Keeps hands dry)

* 1 Chalk Bag ($12-20) (Holds chalk and makes chalk easily available)

* 1 Harness ($40-80) (Attaches rope to the torso. Lots of different models are available depending on how much comfort vs weight you want. Most harnesses are called sport harnesses)

* 1 Locking Pear-Shaped Carabiner ($12-18) (This allows you to attach the belay device to the harness (as well as the rope). Pear shaped biners are larger than most allowing you to easily adjust the equipment)

* 1 Pair of Rock Climbing Shoes ($70-130) (Most climbers prefer tight climbing shoes to increase friction. I'd recommend not having it too tight, so it doesn't hurt, but no extra space)

* 1 Helmet ($55-80) (Using a specific climbing helmet is critical. These protect against vertical drops due to rock fall. Make sure you select a helmet with sufficient insulation for your weather)

* 2 Locking Carabiners ($6-10 each)

* 2 Slings ($3-5 each)

* 1 Climbing Rope ($110-200)

Climbers to lead on sport climbs will require quickdraws which are two carabiners connected with a runner. Trad Climbers will require a trad rack which includes cams, ball nutz, tricams, stoppers and hexes. This is used to create anchors so you can safely climb. Trad gear tends to cost much more than a sport rack. Sport Racks range from $200 - 500. Trad gear ranges from $600-2000.

For lots of extra on climbing gear visit: www.spadout.com/c/climbing/

Mark

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