When you are preparing for climbing—whether rock climbing, mountaineering, or indoor climbing—having the right equipment is essential for safety and success. Below is a comprehensive list of climbing gear categorized by type:
01:Essential Climbing Gear
Climbing Harness: A waist and leg harness is used to attach the climber to the rope.
Climbing Rope: Dynamic ropes for lead climbing or static ropes for rappelling.
Carabiners: metal loops with spring-loaded gates used to connect gear.
Locking carabiners (screwgate or auto-locking) for critical connections.
Non-locking carabiners for quickdraws and general use.
Quickdraws: Pre-assembled pairs of carabiners connected by a sewn sling, used to clip the rope to bolts or protection.
Belay Device: A mechanical tool used to control the rope during belaying (e.g., ATC, GriGri).
Helmet: Protects against falling rocks, debris, and impacts.
Climbing Shoes: Specialized footwear designed for grip and precision on rock surfaces.
Chalk and Chalk Bag: Keeps hands dry for better grip.
02:Protection Gear (Trad and Sport Climbing)
Cams (Spring-Loaded Camming Devices): adjustable devices placed into cracks for protection.
Nuts (stoppers): passive protection devices wedged into cracks.
Hexes: hexagonal-shaped passive protection.
Bolts and Hangers: Pre-placed or removable for sport climbing routes.
Slings and Runners: Nylon or Dyneema loops for extending protection or anchoring.
03:Anchoring and Rappelling Gear
Anchor Material: Cordelettes, slings, or webbing for building anchors.
Rappel Device: ATC or figure-8 device for controlled descent.
Autoblock/Klemheist Knot: A friction knot used as a backup during rappelling.
Prusik Cord: A loop of cord used for ascending or backing up rappels.
04: Mountaineering-Specific Gear
Ice Axe: Used for climbing steep snow or ice and for self-arrest.
Crampons: metal spikes attached to boots for traction on ice and snow.
Mountaineering Boots: Insulated, stiff-soled boots for snow and ice climbing.
Snow Pickets: Long, aluminum stakes for snow anchors.
Avalanche Safety Gear:
Avalanche transceiver (beacon).
Probe pole.
Shovel.
05:Indoor Climbing Gear
Climbing Shoes: Comfortable and precise for indoor walls.
Chalk Bag: For better grip on holds.
Belay Device: ATC or GriGri for indoor belaying.
Harness: lightweight harness for gym use.
06:Accessories and Miscellaneous
Tape: athletic tape or climbing-specific tape for protecting fingers and hands.
Nut Tool: For removing stuck gear from cracks.
Backpack: lightweight pack for carrying gear to the crag or mountain.
Headlamp: Essential for early starts or late finishes.
First Aid Kit: For treating minor injuries.
Guidebook or Route Topo: Maps and descriptions of climbing routes.
Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and energized.
07: Advanced or Specialized Gear
Ascenders: mechanical devices for ascending a rope.
Portaledge: A hanging tent for big wall climbing.
Haul Bag: Durable bag for carrying gear on multi-pitch climbs.
Big Wall Gear: Aid climbing gear like hooks, daisy chains, and entries.
08: Safety and Communication
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): For emergencies in remote areas.
Two-Way Radios: For communication between climbers.
Whistle: For signaling in emergencies.
Always check that your gear is in good condition and verify your setup before climbing. If you are new to climbing, consider taking a course or climbing with experienced partners to learn the proper techniques and safety protocols.