Essential Climbing Gear- A Comprehensive Guide
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Essential Climbing Gear: A Comprehensive Guide

Climbing is a thrilling sport that offers both physical challenges and breathtaking experiences in nature. Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned climber, having the right gear is essential for safety and performance. This guide will cover the must-have climbing gear, including shoes, harnesses, chalk, and more.

Climbing Shoes

Climbing shoes are arguably the most critical piece of equipment for any climber. They provide the grip, support, and sensitivity for effective climbing. Depending on what brand and features you’re looking for, climbing shoes can run between $100 and $200 dollars. Here’s what to consider when choosing climbing shoes:

Types of Climbing Shoes

  • Neutral Shoes: Ideal for beginners, neutral shoes have a relaxed fit and are comfortable for extended wear. They are great for multi-pitch climbs and all-day comfort.
  • Moderate Shoes: These shoes feature a slight downturned shape, offering a balance of comfort and performance. They’re versatile enough for sport climbing and trad climbing.
  • Aggressive Shoes: Aggressive shoes are designed for advanced climbers. They have a pointed toe for maximum precision on small footholds. They are best suited for sport climbing and bouldering.

Key Features to Look For

  • Fit: Climbing shoes should fit tightly but not painfully. A good fit enhances performance, but avoid overly tight shoes that can lead to discomfort.
  • Material: Leather shoes tend to stretch over time, while synthetic options maintain their shape. Consider your climbing style when selecting the material.
  • Sole Type: Rubber soles offer varying degrees of friction. Softer rubber provides better grip, while harder rubber is more durable.

Recommended Brands

  • La Sportiva: Known for their innovative designs and comfort.
  • Scarpa: Offers a range of shoes for various climbing styles.
  • Evolv: Renowned for their performance-driven models.

 

Harnesses

Midsection of athletes adjusting safety harness in fitness club
A harness is essential for keeping you secure while climbing. It connects you to the rope, ensuring safety during ascents and descents. Harnesses run between $60 and $100 so when selecting a harness, consider the following factors:

Types of Harnesses

  • Sport Harnesses: Lightweight and designed for sport climbing, these harnesses often have fewer features but offer maximum mobility.
  • Trad Harnesses: Built for versatility, trad harnesses have more gear loops and padding and are suitable for multi-pitch climbs and longer routes.

Key Features to Consider

  • Fit and Comfort: Look for adjustable leg loops and waistbands to ensure a proper fit. Comfort is crucial, especially for long climbs.
  • Gear Loops: Ensure the harness has enough gear loops to carry your climbing equipment efficiently.
  • Weight: A lightweight harness can enhance mobility and comfort during climbs.

Recommended Brands

  • Black Diamond: Offers a wide range of harnesses for all types of climbers.
  • Petzl: Known for their quality and innovative designs.

Chalk

Chalk is a small but mighty piece of climbing gear that helps manage moisture and improves grip. A small bag can last a few sessions and can be less than $5, but if you buy more, you’ll get a better value so think about spending around $20 and if you’re getting a gift for a climber, you can’t go wrong with throwing them some chalk on top of anything else you get them since they’ll definitely go through it at some point. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Chalk

  • Loose Chalk: Commonly used in gyms and outdoor climbing, loose chalk allows for easy application and reapplication during climbs.
  • Chalk Balls: These are filled with loose chalk and allow for a more controlled application. They reduce the mess and are perfect for indoor climbing.
  • Liquid Chalk: A blend of chalk and alcohol, liquid chalk dries quickly and provides a strong grip. It’s particularly useful for bouldering.

How to Use Chalk Effectively

  • Apply Sparingly: Use just enough chalk to keep your hands dry without overloading, which can lead to excess chalk dust in the climbing area.
  • Reapply as Needed: Chalk will wear off as you climb, so be prepared to reapply during your ascent, especially on longer routes.

Recommended Brands

  • Friction Labs: Known for high-quality chalk.
  • Metolius: Offers a variety of chalk options for different preferences.
  • Mammut: Provides both loose chalk and liquid chalk popular among climbers.

Climbing Rope

A good climbing rope is vital for safety. Ropes come in various types and lengths, each designed for different climbing styles. This is a significant purchase for a lot of climbers, often running them anywhere between $150 to almost $500; depending on length, diameter, and treatments. Here’s a breakdown:

Types of Climbing Ropes

  • Dynamic Ropes: These are designed to stretch and absorb the force of a fall. They are essential for sport climbing, trad climbing, and multi-pitch routes.
  • Static Ropes: Used for activities such as rappelling and rescue, static ropes do not stretch significantly, making them unsuitable for lead climbing.

Key Features to Consider

  • Diameter: Ropes typically range from 9.5mm to 11mm. Thinner ropes are lighter and often preferred for sport climbing. In comparison, thicker ropes offer more durability and are better for trad climbing.
  • Length: Climbing ropes usually come in 60m, 70m, or 80m. Choose a length based on the routes you plan to climb.
  • Dry Treatment: If you climb in wet conditions, consider a rope with a dry treatment, which helps repel water and increases durability.

Recommended Brands

  • Mammut: Renowned for their high-quality ropes and innovative technologies.
  • Sterling: Offers a wide selection of dynamic and static ropes.
  • Maxim: Manufactured in Fall River, MA.

Protection Gear

When climbing, having the proper protection gear is crucial for your safety. While climbers will eventually have an arsenal of protective gear in their rack, they will never say no to more so definitely grab what you need and don’t feel bad if you have extra. Depending on the gear, these can cost anywhere between  $10 for a simple, non-locking carabiner to almost $100 for cams and other mechanical devices. Some protective gear to consider includes:

Quickdraws

Quickdraws connect the climbing rope to the protection points on a route. They typically consist of two carabiners linked by a durable strap.
  • Types: Look for lightweight and durable quickdraws, ideally with a straight gate and a bent gate for easier clipping.
  • Length: Quickdraws come in various lengths, so choose based on the routes you’ll be climbing.

Carabiners

Carabiners are essential for connecting gear. There are two main types:
  • Locking Carabiners: These provide added safety by preventing accidental openings, making them ideal for belaying and securing yourself to anchors.
  • Non-Locking Carabiners: These are lighter and often used for quickdraws and gear racking.

Climbing Protection

Depending on your climbing style, you may also need protection gear, including:
  • Cams: Used for placing in rock cracks, they expand when pulled to provide secure anchoring.
  • Nuts: Wedge-shaped pieces of metal that fit into cracks for protection.

Helmets

woman wearing protective helmet in fitness studio

A climbing helmet safeguards your head against falling rocks and impacts. They can cost anywhere from $60 to $100. Here are the types of helmets you should consider:

Types of Helmets

  • Climbing Helmets: Explicitly designed for climbing, these helmets are lightweight and comfortable, providing excellent protection.

Key Features to Look For

  • Fit: Select a helmet that fits securely without causing discomfort. Adjustable straps can ensure a snug and reliable fit.
  • Ventilation: Good airflow is essential, especially for longer climbs.
  • Weight: A lightweight helmet can enhance comfort during climbs.

Recommended Brands

  • Mammut: Features innovative designs that prioritize safety and comfort.

Chalk Bags

A chalk bag is a simple yet essential piece of climbing gear. It holds your chalk and allows for easy access during climbs. They run around $20 to $30 and you can never have too many of these since it’s better to have one filled with chalk on you at all times for sending emergencies. Here’s what to consider:

Key Features to Look For

  • Size: Choose a chalk bag that fits comfortably and holds enough chalk for your needs.
  • Closure: Look for bags with a drawstring or flap to keep the chalk secure and prevent spills.
  • Attachment: Many chalk bags come with a belt or clip for easy attachment to your harness.

Recommended Brands

  • Black Diamond: Offers a variety of chalk bags with functional designs.
  • Petzl: Known for high-quality and durable chalk bags.
  • 8b+: Produces a range of monster themed bags with names and personalities!

The Right Gear

Investing in the right climbing gear is essential for the sport’s safety, performance, and enjoyment. Every piece of equipment is critical for your climbing experience, from climbing shoes and harnesses to chalk and helmets. As you progress in your climbing journey, prioritize quality gear that meets your specific needs and enhances your skills. With the right equipment, you can tackle new challenges and fully embrace the adventure of climbing.
If you’re grabbing a gift for a climber in your life, we always recommend picking up a gift card so they can find the perfect gear for themselves since a lot of gear is very personal. Use the general costs in this guide to budget out what to put on a gift card and don’t forget to through in some chalk and you’ll have a happy climber.
Gift cards are a great gift option for the climber in your life
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Beyond the Wall- Building Mental Resilience Through Climbing

Beyond the Wall: Building Mental Resilience Through Climbing

Climbing is not just a test of physical strength but also a mental exercise requiring great focus and determination. Climbers face unique mental challenges, like managing fear on high walls and pushing through fatigue when every muscle aches and protests. These challenges build resilience beyond climbing, helping in real-world situations like managing stress, embracing discomfort, and fostering a growth mindset. The mental fortitude developed through climbing can be incredibly beneficial in everyday life, aiding overcoming obstacles and persevering through difficult times.
Shes determined to reach the top. Shot of a young woman climbing a mountain rockface

1. Overcoming Fear and Embracing Failure

Climbing teaches us to face our fears, whether from heights, the possibility of falling, or the fear of failing. By confronting these fears in controlled settings, we learn how to handle anxiety and push past mental barriers. Failure becomes an integral part of our growth; every fall or missed grip is a step toward improvement, helping us build a mindset that values persistence over perfection.

2. Focus and Mindfulness

Every climb demands our full and undivided attention. Focusing intently on every move, being mindful of our breathing, and maintaining awareness of our body position cultivate a deep sense of mindfulness. This intense focus not only aids in improving our performance on the wall but also significantly enhances our ability to stay present and grounded in various other life situations.

3. Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Climbers are constantly assessing and adjusting their approach, a practice that significantly strengthens their problem-solving skills. When faced with unexpected obstacles, we learn to adapt quickly, a skill that seamlessly translates to resilience in everyday challenges where plans can change instantly. This ability to remain flexible and resourceful is invaluable, allowing us to navigate the unpredictable nature of climbing and life with confidence and agility.

4. Community and Support

Climbing’s unique culture strongly emphasizes support and encouragement among its community members. Climbers are known for cheering each other on, celebrating not only their victories but also the progress and achievements of the group. This supportive environment is instrumental in helping to build social resilience, fostering meaningful connections, and reinforcing mental well-being. Through this culture of encouragement and camaraderie, climbers find strength in unity, which enhances their overall experience and personal growth.

5. Stress Relief and Emotional Release

Climbing offers a wonderfully healthy outlet for stress, allowing individuals to channel their energy constructively and positively. The physicality of the sport not only engages the body but also provides a natural boost to mood, lifting spirits and enhancing overall well-being. This release of energy helps us effectively manage negative emotions, providing a sense of relief and calm. Additionally, it brings a profound sense of achievement, reinforcing personal resilience with every climb.
Senior man rock climbing

Climbing for Life

Climbing empowers us to push our boundaries in both physical and mental realms. It’s an activity beyond merely reaching the summit; it’s about cultivating the strength and resilience needed to face challenges head-on. Through consistent practice and dedication, we can all grow mentally tougher, become more adaptable, and prepare ourselves to tackle whatever obstacles come our way.
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Where to Buy Rock Climbing Gear
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Where to Buy Rock Climbing Gear

Wondering where to buy rock climbing gear? Oh, you’re in for it now. You’ll own more pairs of climbing shoes and belay devices than you need before you know it.

The number one thing to remember when buying rock climbing gear is that you can never spend too much money on something responsible for keeping you safe. Instead of using your friend’s old harness, invest in something straight from a manufacturer. Or understand how to inspect climbing gear.

This wondrous world of climbing you’re embarking on will take you to new places and empower you to push yourself, all with the comfort and confidence of owning your gear. So, where can you buy rock climbing gear?

Details of rock climbing material resting on the floor

Tips for Buying Rock Climbing Gear

● Suppose you’re concerned about buying rock climbing gear from a third party like Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, or your friends. In that case, you should always check to ensure the gear is UIAA-certified.

The International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) has existed for many years and has become the standard for determining satisfactory equipment. When their safety label is seen on a piece of gear, it states that an accredited, independent third party has tested it and that it satisfies the requirements of the UIAA standard. This means that the gear has undergone rigorous testing and meets the highest safety standards in the industry.

Always inspect any gear as much as possible before purchasing from a third party. It’s unlikely that a seller will knowingly sell you worn-out or unsafe gear, but you never know! If you’re unsure what to look for, do a quick Google search for how to identify safe climbing gear. Look for signs of wear and tear, check for any damage or fraying, and ensure all the parts are in good working condition.

● Rock climbing shoe brands are notorious for not having a standard sizing. What you may be in one brand could be a completely different size in another, and even another size in a different brand from those two!

Always remember, try before you buy! If you can try on shoes before you buy them, do it! If you must order shoes online, then go with the returning method. Of course, only do so if you can afford to buy multiple pairs at once. This way, you can be reassured that you’re getting the right fit.

The returning method is a flexible and resourceful way to find the perfect fit. It involves choosing a pair of rock climbing shoes you think you need and adding a half-size and half-size

down to your order. Once you receive your shoes in the mail, try all three and return the two that don’t fit!

Where to Buy Rock Climbing Gear

This is what you’re looking for, so we’ll get right to it. Many outdoor companies sell rock climbing gear. Some sell their brands, such as Black Diamond, Petzl, Metolius, etc., and other third-party companies like Backcountry or REI are great options when looking for a wide range of equipment.

Since this is your first time buying rock climbing gear, it’s best to visit a store directly to physically see and feel each piece of equipment you’re looking for. You may think you’re a certain size in a harness, but you won’t know how it fits until you try it on! A brick-and-mortar business will be a great option to help you figure out exactly what fits. Use these when you need shoes, a harness, gloves, a helmet- and any sort of thing that will depend on your body size.

Online sites are a great option when you just need carabiners, quickdraws, slings, belay devices, or any gear that doesn’t care what size you are. If you’re looking for a specific brand, navigate to their site, and voila!

Man buying sports equipment using smart phone at the cash register with saleswoman in the shop with travel goods

What Rock Climbing Gear to Buy

Before you click around a website and pick out rock climbing gear, you should know what you need to get started. Not all beginner climbers will want the same gear when they start. Consider the style of climbing you enjoy and what you plan to do with it!

Shoes—Ditch renting shoes at the gym and grab your own pair. This should be your first piece of rock climbing gear. The difference between using a shoe with rounded edges (sometimes holes in the toes) and a shoe with a crisp edge is unmistakable. You’ll never go back!

Harness – An essential piece of gear to grab. With some trial and error, you can find a perfectly fitting harness and learn precisely what you want out of it.

Chalk + Chalk Bag – The last piece of gear you should grab is a chalk bag and some chalk. Keep your hands dry when you’re sending your projects! You can find various designs like mountains, your favorite cartoon, or even little monsters. A chalk bag is a game-changer for the sweaty hand climber!

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How to Keep Up with Climbing Post-Paris Olympics
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How to Keep Up with Climbing Post-Paris Olympics

The post-Olympic blues are real. Three weeks of nonstop, top-notch sports action leaves a big hole in the aftermath for sports fans, new and old. For some, the start of the NFL season, WNBA/NBA games, and Premier League will fill the void. Others will rewatch Olympic footage, wishing they knew where to watch the niche sports (like rock climbing) spotlighted at the Olympics.

While indoor rock climbing has skyrocketed in popularity over the last decade, it is still a relatively new and unknown sport. Mainstream networks and sports channels don’t cover professional climbing events. Rock climbing fans, new and old, who eagerly watched the elite climbers take the Olympic stage for the second-ever time, may find it challenging to keep up with the sport post-Olympics.

Everyone should be able to watch climbing and support the strong, inspirational athletes that won the world’s attention in Paris. To help support that reality, check out the breakdown below of where and how to keep up with climbing after the Paris Olympics.

Where to Keep Up with Climbing

Whether you’re a fan of professional competitions or enjoy consuming climbing-related content, this list has you covered. The first is the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC). As the international governing body and competition organizer for elite climbing competitions, they host a series of yearly international competitions known as World Cups and regional-based events. The best part? Every event is live-streamed on the IFSC YouTube page and posted for later viewing so you can catch the action at your convenience.

The 2024 season is wrapping up, but there are a handful of events to catch in the last quarter of 2024. They haven’t released 2025 event dates yet, but keep an eye on their calendar.

IFSC Events  – Remainder 2024

October

  • Oct. 10th -14th Asian Championships Tai’an – All disciplines
  • Oct. 15th – 20th South American Cup Ibarra – All disciplines
  • Oct. 18th – 20th Madrid 4 Speed – Speed

November

  • Nov. 10th – 13th NEOM Masters – Boulder and Speed
  • Nov. 18th – 24th IFSC Pan American Championships Santago – All disciplines
  • Nov. 20 South American Cup Mar del Plata – Boulder
  • Nov. 14th – 20th South American Cup Curitiba – All

IFSC events and coverage are the best way to follow climbing competitions, but there are many other avenues to stay up-to-date with rock climbing news and athletes.

Social Media

Social media is one of the best ways to stay connected with the climbing community. Many professional climbers rely on sponsorships and social media to supplement their income and regularly post updates on their training and climbing endeavors. It’s a great way to stay entertained and connect to your favorite athletes.

Instagram

Athletes regularly post training footage and updates on indoor and outdoor climbing endeavors. Follow your favorite athletes’ social media to stay up to date with their climbing and competition results.

YouTube Channels

A handful of climbers and groups of climbers have invested in YouTube channels offering content ranging from entertainment, collaborations, instructional, and cinematic.

Keep up with Mellow YouTube, started by world-class boulderers Daniel Woods, Shawn Rabotou, Jimmy Webb, and Giuliano Cameroni, for cinematic videos focused on elite outdoor climbing.

Check out Magnus Mitbo’s YouTube (if you have yet to stumble across a video) for entertaining climbing content. A former elite climber turned content creator, he dives into all aspects of climbing. He’s collaborated with the current generation of elite climbers and athletes from various other sports, trading athletic experiences. Some content is pure entertainment featuring inventive climbing-related challenges.

Emil Abrahamsson is another high-level climber offering climbing-related content similar to Magnus Mitbo. Many videos feature collaborations between the two.

Adam Ondra, a two-time Olympian and elite climber, has a YouTube channel that’s a must for climbing enthusiasts. As one of the strongest climbers, his videos dive into more technical aspects, like training tips, or go behind the scenes of some of his most significant ascents. It’s a great resource for those looking to improve their climbing skills.

Hannah Morris Bouldering is the YouTube channel to follow if the Olympics have left you wanting to dive into climbing or improve. Hannah isn’t a professional climber, making her content relatable to many recreational climbers. She has access to training with the pros and seasoned climbing coach Be Baldwin-Fuller. The result is informative yet entertaining videos that will give you training tips for your climbing.

EpicTV offers mini-documentaries on various aspects of climbing. Some tell stories of difficult outdoor ascents and climbers’ journeys to success. Their most recent series documented an Icelandic climber’s quest to qualify for Paris.

EpicTV Climbing Daily, EpicTV’s partner channel, offers climbing news stories in video format. While videos aren’t uploaded daily, check out their videos for competition recaps and climbing gear reviews.

There’s no need to go through climbing footage withdrawal and post-Olympic blues when there are many ways to keep up with climbing. Not only can you keep up with the professional competition circuit via the IFSC, but there are options for following outdoor climbing news and learning more about the sport and how to improve if you’re interested in participating, too. If we missed any platforms worthy of note, share them down below to help others out! We’d love to hear from you and build a stronger climbing community.

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Can Toddlers Rock Climb Blog Header
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Can Toddlers Rock Climb?

Have you ever witnessed a toddler who didn’t attempt to scale their crib rails or surprise their parents by climbing the living room furniture? Climbing is an inherent trait in a toddler’s DNA, so the real question isn’t whether they can climb but rather if they have the opportunity to explore this natural ability.

Multiple factors outside parental control can impact a toddler’s ability to rock climb.

The most common limitation is commercial gym insurance policies and corresponding gym rules. Most facilities have a minimum age and weight requirement. While it will vary by facility, the minimum age is generally 4 or 5 years. The weight requirement applies if a facility has auto-belay systems requiring a minimum weight for user safety.

There are exceptions. ABC Kids Climbing in Boulder, CO, offers climbing programs for kids as young as 2.5. While they were one of the first gyms to offer programs for toddlers, the sport’s growth has led to other climbing gym companies offering similar programs. Like most toddler sports programs, they often require adult participation or supervision. Offerings of unstructured climbing for toddlers are generally limited.

If you find a facility that allows your toddler to climb with your supervision or are an avid climber willing to venture outdoors with little ones, there are a few essential things to focus on. These can also apply to 4-and 5-year-old rock climbers once they are old enough to participate.

toddler girl climbing wall with dad

What to Know When You Take a Toddler Rock Climbing

Prioritize safety.

They’re kids. You can tell them the rules 100 times, and they’ll still forget them in seconds. To keep them and other climbers safe, always keep your eye on them, enforce the no running rule, and take the time to explain other safety rules (i.e., remind them to look and make sure no one is climbing above when walking under a climbing wall).

Additionally, always have them wear a helmet when climbing outdoors. Even if they sit near the rock while another person is climbing, have them keep their helmets on. There’s no need to risk a brain injury from falling rock pieces. This is just one example of the many safety measures that should be in place when climbing outdoors.

They are good at knowing their limits.

Respect their limits. Toddlers are incredibly intuitive and adept at expressing their needs. If a toddler indicates that they don’t want to climb further or higher, it’s crucial not to push them. Similarly, if they desire to climb more or higher, encourage their exploration (within reason). As long as you’re vigilant and can assist them in descending safely, it’s perfectly safe for them to climb to the top of the wall.

Keep it fun.

Toddlers have their whole lives ahead of them. If they want to pursue climbing at a competitive level as they grow up, that’s fine. When they are young and just starting, make sure they have fun. Don’t pressure them to stick to one color climb or a specific path if climbing outside. The odds are that they can’t reach all the holds anyway. Focusing on helping them use the holds they can reach and climbing only as high as they wish.

Don’t bother investing in climbing shoes.

While climbing shoes are an option, toddlers often find their sneakers more comfortable. Additionally, their feet grow rapidly. Climbing shoes can be expensive, so waiting until they’re older is advisable. If you believe climbing shoes would benefit them, consider purchasing a used pair or investing in regular shoes with grippy soles to save some money.

Use a kid’s full-body harness.

Toddlers are tiny humans. When climbing ropes, opt for a kid’s full-body harness. Most gyms have a few available to rent, or you can invest in your own. This harness type will fit their small frame and ensure their safety.

Cute little kid girl in sport equipment climbing

Toddlers are capable rock climbers. It’s just a matter of finding a facility that allows them to participate and ensuring you always supervise them. Rock climbing is a low-risk sport everyone can enjoy when you take appropriate safety measures, but it can be dangerous without adherence to safety protocols. When it’s time to take your toddler climbing, remember to trust that they know their limits and focus on keeping it fun. If you know of any climbing programs for toddlers near you, please share below to help others find opportunities for their toddler(s) to unleash their inner rock climber!

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Why You Should Get Your Belay Certification

Why You Should Get Your Belay Certification

Take the next step in your climbing journey and earn your belay certification! Venture beyond the bouldering mats and autobelays and master a new skill that will elevate your climbing sessions and fill you with pride and accomplishment.

Learning to belay may seem daunting, but remember, you’re not alone in this journey. The climbing community is here to support you, just as they’ve supported countless others. If those camp kids can learn how to belay, so can you. You’ve got this!

This article aims to help you receive your top-rope belay certification. Lead climbing will have a similar structure, but you must first learn to top-rope belay!

 

How to Learn How to Belay

Although the internet is an excellent tool for learning new things, belaying is a hands-on skill requiring much practice. Use online videos for references, but don’t take your belay test if all you’ve done is watch others online do it.

Find somebody to teach you how to belay! Having a climbing partner who knows how to belay and is willing to teach you is the most accessible way to learn. Just make sure to buy them some chalk for their efforts!

Many gyms don’t allow non-staff to teach others how to belay, so know the rules beforehand. If your friend will teach you, you may have to learn outside of the gym!

Take a class at the climbing gym! Sign up for a “Learning How to Belay” class and receive expert instruction from a teacher. Even though your friend may know how to belay, instructors get paid to teach people how to do so correctly, so they likely know an extra thing.

 

What Gear is Required to Belay?

Belaying requires a host of new knowledge that is not used on the bouldering mats. You’ll need to learn how to tie a figure eight knot, properly load a belay device, and safely take in slack. Besides new knowledge, what gear will you need?

First things first, you’ll need a climbing harness! There are many harnesses to choose from, which can be overwhelming. Check out their retail shop and see their options if you want something to use at the gym.

You’ll also need a belay device. Many climbing gyms require you to use an assisted braking device, like a Petzl Gri Gri. These devices have a built-in function that automatically stops and

catches if too much rope runs through it too quickly. While assisted braking devices are a great way to help beginners learn how to belay, never assume that the device will always catch a climber, and never remove your brake hand from the rope.

That’s it! You already have the other gear: chalk and shoes! Although you can grab some gear to make the experience more enjoyable, such as belay gloves for your hands and glasses so you don’t need to bend your neck to look up at the wall the entire time, the last thing you need is somebody to belay!

 

How to Get Your Belay Certification at the Gym

Every gym is slightly different, but you must take a belay ‘test’ to receive your belay certification. Once you’ve learned to belay, ask a gym employee to take the test!

Some gyms require you to have a partner to take the test, so be ready with one, just in case! Others will have a rope and pully system to mimic belaying. The pully system belay test takes less time, but it can seem strange if you’re used to belaying.

Be wary of potential climbing partners if a gym doesn’t require you to take a belay test. Try to observe them with others before you allow them to catch you, and ask plenty of questions to confirm that they know what they’re doing!

 

What You Can Expect with Your Belay Certification

With your belay certification, you’ll unlock new climbing areas and routes in the gym that you may not have explored before. The thrill of discovering these new challenges will keep your climbing sessions exciting and adventurous.

Or, if you’ve been getting catches from your friends, you can finally return the favor! Proudly present your belay badge of honor so everyone knows you can also give anyone a catch on top rope!

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3 Ways to Train for Your Outdoor Project in the Gym

It’s almost sending season again, and you know what that means: the perfect conditions to hop back on the proj. When it’s too hot out, you can’t line up enough partners, or you just can’t get back out to the crag, you must figure out ways to train for your outdoor project in the gym.

As an outdoor climber, you know you won’t be able to replicate the exact climb inside. Even as a route setter, you can only come so close to creating the same sequence of moves on a rock. Sometimes, the holds aren’t quite right, or the angle of the wall isn’t replicable.

That shouldn’t stop you from training for your outdoor project in the gym, though. You can do so in a few ways, but you must buckle down and keep at it if you want to send your project this season. Check out these three ways below to train for your outdoor projects in the gym:

1. Analyze and memorize the climb

You must learn every sequence of complicated moves on your project. It would help if you memorized the exact beta for every hold; regardless, you should have the crux beta dialed.

Understanding the hardest sequence of moves will tell you what to focus on in your training. Is the crux crimpy, pinchy, compression-ey? Is the climb-on slab a dead vertical wall, or is it overhung? If it is overhung, how overhung is it? 30°, 35°, 40°? More!?

As far out as it sounds, you must understand the rock. Keep a journal of the moves and write them down after you’re lowered off the wall. Write out how each hold and move feels and include as much description as possible.

Writing out the beta will help solidify the moves in your mind. You may hate exams, but treat your project like an exam you must pass- study for it!

Man rock climbing

2. Replicate as best you can

For those with a home wall, you can recreate any climb sequences to practice. For those without a home wall, which may be most climbers, you’ll need to get a little creative with your training.

There are some incredible boards out there to train on, such as a Moonboard, a Kilterboard, and a systems board, which you may have access to at your gym. A spray wall is also a great tool to help you train for your outdoor project. While you may not get to replicate your project exactly, you can replicate what is needed to perform on it.

First, determine the angle of the wall that your project is on. Since you won’t be able to replicate your project exactly, you should train on a slightly more overhanging wall. This will force your body to get comfortable with an even harder angle than your project.

Next, choose what holds you must train on. If your project’s crux has crimps, train on crimps; if the crux has slopers, so on. Climbing on these holds at a steeper angle than your project will help you build the strength to get after it outside.

Lastly, think about the footholds! Since you’ll be training on a steeper angle, begin with whatever large footholds are available. Once you complete the sequences at a steeper angle, use worse feet. There are always worse feet.

man climbing wall

3. Stay consistent!

Any climber only sends harder by working hard and staying consistent. Schedule your week so you’re training for your project at least 2-3 times a week. On your off days, consider strength training to improve any weakness areas. Your core will thank you for the workouts if you’re climbing on a steep wall.

Staying psyched while training is no easy feat. Remember that if you truly want something to send at your limit, you must work for it if you can. Get out to your project between training sessions to keep your motivation high!

 

Progress isn’t linear, so try not to get down if you’re not performing well during a session or hitting a plateau. Instead, redefine what progress means to you and focus on the subtle differences in your training.

Instead of focusing on not sticking a move you’ve been struggling with, focus on minute details you have improved. Reached the hold with less effort? Hit it with three fingers instead of two? Held on for a millisecond longer than last time? Progress!

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Stories of a Collegiate Climber National Championships

Stories of a Collegiate Climber: National Championships

Pool together the top one hundred male and female collegiate climbers in the United States for a weekend of competition, and you end up with something between a house party, class reunion, and world-cup-style competition. But before I can explain how all three scenarios came under one roof, I must catch you up on how you make it to the USA Climbing Collegiate National Championships.

How To Qualify for National Championships

As a college student, you have four years of eligibility to compete in the USA Collegiate Series. This means you can participate in the series anytime during your four years of college. Although streamlined, the process will seem very similar if you were a former youth competitor. From November to March, eight divisions host collegiate qualification events (QE) in Boulder and Lead. New for the 2023-2024 season, athletes could pick whether they competed in the intermediate or advanced category for their gender. Upon completing one QE, the climber can compete in their division championship competition in April. It’s at this event where climbers receive tickets to Collegiate Nationals. Formerly, the top 13 advanced male and female athletes in boulder and lead would advance. With the addition of an intermediate category, the top five athletes in each category now qualify. However, like my story, where I qualified in the lead round at divisional championships, you can also compete in boulders and speed at nationals.

The Nationals Experience: Party meets Competition

Collegiate Nationals is a breath of fresh air, a departure from the intense competitions of the USA youth circuit. DJs set the mood with music, parents, and climbers mingle, laugh, and share pizzas, and strangers become friends, cheering you on or wishing you luck. It’s not just a competition; it’s a celebration. The atmosphere is more akin to a family barbecue than a cutthroat competition, and it’s wonderfully chaotic.

For competitors, the intensity of the weekend is what you make it. I competed in women’s advanced alongside ~100 other females in boulder and lead. However, only the top 20 for each discipline advanced to finals. With former youth champions and Team USA athletes like Nekaia Sanders among the competition, vying for a spot in the top 20 was an unrealistic goal for my skillset. Many others were in the same bost, as ending up in the top 20% when you only have one attempt per lead route and four minutes per boulder is challenging. For myself and others in the same boat, you can focus on taking down the greatest competition anyone can face: themselves. The party atmosphere and positive vibes from all parties make it a fantastic experience regardless of place. Enjoying the sets created by USA Climbing’s best setters, making new friends, or reuniting with old ones, and putting all of your training to the test culminates in an unforgettable weekend.

The Takeaways

If you have yet to gather it, I was not the strongest or most skilled competitor. In both disciplines, I placed in the bottom 40%. But did I have an exciting and fun two days? 100 percent! The journey to Nationals was long and took a lot of hard training, but at Nationals, I could focus on having fun. The routes and boulders had creative, challenging moves like funky press moves, coordination toe catches, and paddle dynos, leaving me smiling even when I fell. The energy in the gyms was electric, and the competitors, staff, and families cheering on their athletes were so kind and encouraging. One memorable light-hearted interaction occurred after my only flash of the competition. The older gentleman judging the boulder joked that he needed to confirm the number of attempts with me (it was one). I also met friends of friends, connecting over a sweatshirt I wore with the name of my home gym across the back.

If I had the chance, I’d return to Nationals in a heartbeat. I encourage you to do it if you’re considering challenging yourself to compete for a spot. You’ll gain more than just a competition experience. You’ll learn about your strengths, limits, and the power of the climbing community. College is the time to challenge yourself and have fun, so let climbing be a part of that narrative.

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Summer Training Tips
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Summer Training Tips: Beat the Heat

In most of the U.S., summer is synonymous with heat. Hot and humid days become more frequent. The sweat dial gets turned to ‘max.’ It can become challenging to avoid slogging through your workouts. Even the advent of air-conditioned indoor climbing facilities can’t always quell summer’s oppressive temperatures and dankness. Yet, as a sport without a proper off-season, climbing doesn’t stop for the heat. Whether grinding out fitness sessions in the gym or heading outdoors, climbers can battle the heat and walk away with gains and sends under their belts. To help shore up your armor against the scorching temperatures and stifling humidity, here are five summer training tips to beat the heat!

Spruce Up Your Water with Electrolytes

You hear it every summer season (likely in your mom’s voice): “Drink your water!” As obnoxious as it may seem to have every other person, news page, and social media post telling you to hydrate, it is essential. However, as an athlete undergoing hard training sessions and sweating buckets, you’ll want to spruce up your water with electrolytes. Thankfully, they are all the craze in 2024, with many brands offering electrolyte products. These products are not just a trend, they are a convenient way to enhance your hydration, recovery, and energy. Choose from various flavors, forms (powder, tablet, sparkling), and ingredients. Even if you aren’t the person dripping with sweat as they leave the gym, incorporating an electrolyte drink, at the minimum on your most challenging training days, will enhance your hydration, recovery, and energy. Not to mention, they taste delicious! See the list of popular brands.

  • Skratch Labs – Choice of The TraingBeta Podcast Host, Neely Quinn
  • Nuun – Known for their electrolyte tablets that add fizz
  • LMNT – Electrolyte Choice of American Neuroscientist and Huberman Lab podcast host Andrew Huberman
  • Other brands popular among consumers: DripDrop, LiquidIV, Gnarly Nutrition

 

Wear loose, lightweight clothing.

Choosing to enhance your hydration is helpful to sustain and recover from intense activity, but another way to beat the heat is by opting for lightweight and loose clothing. Moisture-wicking features like Nike’s Dri-Fit technology are fantastic, but high-quality cotton and linen work well too. It’s likely self-explanatory, but it is worth mentioning that tank tops and shorts will be your best friends. These loose, lightweight clothes will keep you comfortable and ready for your training. If you need to wear longer pants to protect your knees or harness them comfortably, look for linen or other lightweight materials. Many outdoor and climbing clothing companies have designed products with heat in mind, leaving you with plenty of stylish options.

Opt to Climb Early Morning or Later Evening

Generally, the coolest parts of summer days are the early morning or later evening. Avoid mid-day climbing sessions, especially if venturing outside. Humidity will be highest in the early morning, so if you’re climbing in an area with high heat and humidity, you may want to pencil in training for those later evening hours.

 

Consider antiperspirant for Hands and Feet.

Sweaty summer sessions mean extra sweaty hands and feet, which is not ideal for climbers. No one wants to chalk up only to touch the first hold, and it’s all gone, nor do they want to add to the funk of their climbing shoes. If you haven’t tried an antiperspirant product before, summer is the time to try. Rhino is the best-known brand in the climbing community, offering three sweat-stopping products: Performance, Dry, and Tip-Juice. They’ve bundled all three at a discounted price in the Rhino Sweat Block Bundle. However, it’s important to note that some climbers may have skin sensitivities or concerns about the impact on their climbing equipment, so it’s always best to test these products in a controlled environment before using them during a climb.

Another effective solution for sweaty hands is liquid chalk. This alternative tends to dry out hands faster than powdered chalk, providing a reliable grip. For even faster drying, consider liquid chalk with alcohol, a potent drying agent.

 

Hydrate All Day, Every Day

The final summer training tip to beat the heat loops back to our first tip under the hydration umbrella. Remembering to consume fluids when actively working out or thirsty is easy. But to prevent dehydration, heat stroke, lethargy, and poor performance, you should hydrate daily. Start your morning with water and make sure you’ve sufficiently hydrated before climbing sessions. Continue to hydrate after training, and don’t slack off on rest days! Although you may not need the electrolyte or sugary beverages on rest days, hydrating with water or seltzer will ensure you’re ready to go on climbing days.

Don’t let the heat win this summer. You have a toolkit of tips to give you a leg up. You can easily stay healthy and safe by incorporating electrolytes, wearing appropriate clothing, strategically timing your workouts, using antiperspirants or drying agents, and consistently hydrating. If there are any other summer training tips that you love, comment them below to help out fellow climbers.

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What to Wear for Your First Time Climbing

What do you wear for your first time climbing?

Climbing gyms have taken the world by storm, and what was once a not-so-popular activity is now competed for in the Olympics. Although climbing has changed, what climbers wear hasn’t.

You’ll see less lycra nowadays, but the core of climbing clothing choices has remained the same.

What NOT to wear is just as important as what to wear for your first time climbing. Check out that section to avoid wearing the wrong things and ensure you’re fully prepared for your climbing experience!

So, what DO you wear for your first time climbing?

Simply, anything that is comfortable and allows you to move your body freely. Climbing requires a lot of bending, reaching, twisting, and contorting, so you’ll want to wear clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement.

For footwear, a pair of snug-fitting climbing shoes is recommended. These shoes are designed to provide maximum grip and support for your feet during climbs. Avoid wearing regular sneakers or bulky shoes as they can hinder your performance and increase the risk of injury. Pants are the go-to option when you start, so you have a little barrier when you bump your knee on the wall. Climbers commonly wear T-shirts because you’ll warm up from pulling your body up the wall.

But if the gym is super warm, or since you’ll exert a lot of energy, it’s nice to have more airflow to the legs with a pair of shorts.

The fabric you choose is up to you. You can wear something sportier, like ‘workout clothes’ that help wick moisture away from your body, or you can proudly display your efforts with a cotton option. However, keep in mind that moisture-wicking fabrics can keep you dry and comfortable during your climbs, making them a popular choice among climbers.

What NOT to wear for your first time climbing

Deciding on the correct outfit to climb in may seem daunting, but choose something comfortable, and you’ll be just fine. More importantly, you should avoid wearing the following clothing when climbing.

Wear Layers!

Sometimes, climbing gyms can feel like stepping into a grocery store’s freezer. Keeping cool is helpful to gym-goers because you’re sure to heat up when exerting yourself climbing the funky-colored walls.

If keeping warm in a cool environment is challenging, consider wearing layers to the climbing gym. You can always remove a sweatshirt or switch to shorts when you get too warm!

Everybody has a different internal body temperature; what works for someone else may not work for you.

Restrictive clothing

Tight-fitting clothing that doesn’t stretch. Pants like skinny jeans may try to come back in style, but they should be left at home. You can also just bring other clothes to change into at the climbing gym.

Climbing requires plenty of hip mobility, and you don’t want to rip your favorite pair of jeans when trying to raise your foot high on the wall.

Tight-fitting clothing is okay to wear when climbing, but you must make sure it is stretchy!

Too loose of clothing

Yes, even super loose clothing can hinder your climbing. This doesn’t mean when your pants fall down your hips; that’s a separate issue that a belt can fix. However, they’re too loose when your pant leg is wide enough to step on.

Imagine stepping on a foothold only to be caught in the fabric. You won’t go anywhere with the other foot because you’ve anchored yourself to the wall!

While an oversized, flowy T-shirt may feel comfortable, the loose fabric could restrict your vision, blocking your view of the footholds below you. Although this isn’t a huge issue, it’s something to consider when picking your outfit.

Certain jewelry

Most jewelry should be removed when climbing. This includes rings, long necklaces, large dangly earrings—anything that could get caught on a rope or climbing hold if you fall.

Bring a bag to the climbing gym and keep your jewelry safe when you hop on the wall. If you’re adamant about wearing a ring when climbing, look for a silicon one that won’t cause any injuries if it gets caught!

Dress for Success

If you couldn’t tell, there is no standard to what to wear for your first time climbing. While you should include a few golden standards (like not wearing jewelry), the rest of your clothing options are personal preference. You have the option to choose what makes you feel comfortable and confident on the wall.

Skinny jeans may be your look, and you’ll climb in them regardless of what anybody says, and that’s fine! However, you may not be as flexible as you need to be for specific climbs.

Long pant legs might be your fashion, and that’s okay, too. But you might change after you get stuck because you stepped on your clothes.

Ultimately, the goal is to wear what feels comfortable for you. Try out a few different options, like bringing layers, and feel out what works. You can switch it up the second time you climb! Remember, comfort is key in climbing attire.

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