Rock Climbing/Equipment

Basic gear Shoes Climbing shoes should be tight, but not cause pain. Entry level shoes will have flatter soles, while those that arch are meant for more skilled climbers. Chalk Just as in certain types of gymnastics, rock-climbers typically use chalk (in fact usually magnesium carbonate) for drying their hands to prevent slipping. Chalk comes in three general forms; blocks, powder inside balls of cloth, and liquid. Blocks of chalk tend to crumble and make a mess, so some gyms don't allow their use. Liquid chalk is a mixture of powdered chalk with a volatile liquid which evaporates in a matter of seconds, leaving a relatively long lasting coating of chalk. Chalk balls are probably the most common of the three. Helmet Some climbers use a helmet to protect themselves in high falls, or from falling rocks and other objects. Top-roping Harness Unless when bouldering, climbers are usually secured with a rope which is attached to the climber's harnesses, a webbed belt that fits around one's waist and thighs. The belayer will typically also wear a harness to which the belay device is attached, using the belayer's weight as an anchor. Rope Carabiners and webbing You will need a few for the anchors. Lead-climbing Quickdraws These are pairs of carabiners connected with webbing. These are clipped into anchors bolted into the face of the rock. Removable protection On traditional lead climbs where there are no bolts, protection devices are secured in places such as cracks by the lead, and cleared by the second. These include: Aluminum or steel nuts Hexagonal-shaped chocks Slings Spring loaded camming device Tricams