Climbing footwear and other gear
Perhaps inspired by watching the movie “Cliffhanger” starring Sylvester Stallone, or perhaps after conquering a new career peak, you’ve decided to head to the climbing gym.
And the first question arises: “What should I wear?”
We’ll agree that for your first visit to the climbing gym, it’s enough to pick a comfortable cotton T-shirt and stretchy cycling shorts from your wardrobe.
But if you want to look stylish and feel comfortable, opt for clothing specifically designed for extreme sports, and particularly for climbing .
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Climber's T-shirt
Among climbers, T-shirts made of bamboo fiber with elastic inserts on the sides and underarms have earned a great reputation.
These T-shirts provide freedom of movement for your arms, and the material absorbs moisture well.
It’s great that there are both men’s and women’s variants of such T-shirts.
Prices start at $10.
If you want to be simply stylish, consider a climbing T-shirt from the Polish brand MILO.
And if you’re looking to truly indulge, you can climb in a T-shirt from the American brand Prana, which is considered one of the best manufacturers of this apparel.
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Climber's shorts
What is the main criterion when choosing pants or shorts for climbing?
Your legs’ freedom of movement!
Modern sporting apparel manufacturers use super-elastic materials.
For example:
extendoCL (this fabric was specifically designed for climbing pants);
cotton/elasthan (dense and soft);
cotton stretch (ultra-durable).
However, it’s not just the material but also the tailoring of these pants that matters. There are several nuances to consider:
- zippered pockets;
- a loop for attaching a chalk bag;
- a specially designed knee section;
- an elastic waistband.
These small details will contribute to your comfort on the rock.
The affordable brand MILO offers climbing pants starting at $20, both men’s and women’s. They meet all climbing requirements but, of course, better options exist.
These include super-elastic climbing pants, shorts, or breeches from the Swiss brand Mammut, the Czech brands AlpinePro and Warmpeace, or the American Prana. Their prices start at $40.
Shoes
Climbing shoes for beginners
To be fully prepared for climbing, there’s one final and very important step—getting the right shoes.
For your first time, even sneakers from your own wardrobe might suffice.
You can, of course, rent climbing shoes (some climbing gyms provide this service!).
However, be prepared for certain drawbacks of rental shoes: they may be worn out, have an unpleasant odor, or cause discomfort since they’ve been broken in by different foot shapes.
Our advice: buy your own climbing shoes and enjoy the true pleasure of your feet gripping the holds on the rock!
How to Choose Climbing Shoes
So, head to a professional store for your first pair of climbing shoes.
If you’re a beginner, buying climbing shoes online is not for you. You need to try them on in person and get advice from an experienced salesperson.
- Laces, elastic bands, or Velcro? The choice is yours.
Lace-up climbing shoes
Laces allow for tight adjustments, and Velcro makes the process of putting on and taking off shoes simpler.
Elastic climbing shoes
Go with whatever feels most comfortable. Comfort should always guide your choice.
Velcro climbing shoes
- Soft or stiff? Ideally, you’d have both… But for your first climbing gym visit, go for soft ones.
Climbing shoes are available in two types of lasts:
- anatomical;
Anatomical climbing shoes
- aggressive.
Aggressive Climbing Shoes by La Sportiva
The first conforms to the shape of the foot, while the second forces the foot to take a certain shape. The first type is more suitable for beginners.
- Your first climbing shoes can be inexpensive and simple.
Shoes from the Russian manufacturer Ushba are quite suitable — starting at 950 rubles.
Looking for something better? Then pay attention to climbing shoes from the Czech manufacturers Triop and RockPillars. Prices for a pair of climbing shoes start at $30.
For advanced climbers ready to conquer rocks in excellent footwear, the Italian manufacturer La Sportiva is a great choice, with pairs priced from $50.
La Sportiva uses a special sole called “Vibram” for their climbing shoes.
With regular use, a quality pair will wear out within a year. But you can buy new soles and have them re-glued. This will cost less than buying a new pair, though the challenge lies in finding a craftsman skilled enough to perform the repair well.
There are specialized companies for repairing climbing shoes and similar gear. Experienced climbers will point you to reliable repair services near you.
- Climbing shoes come in women’s, men’s, and children’s variants.
Children’s feet grow quickly, so it’s especially important to monitor the size of climbing shoes for kids to prevent foot disorders later on.
Women’s climbing shoes are generally narrower and lighter. There aren’t many other significant differences.
Sometimes men with narrow feet buy these shoes for themselves.
In any case, you should try the shoes on before purchasing and choose the ones that feel comfortable to you. Experienced climbers say that even they don’t buy this type of footwear without trying it first.
Helmet
Climbing Helmet
Now your outfit is complete, and you’re ready to head towards the vertical climb! Just one final touch to complete the look from head to toe — a helmet.
For beginners and those climbing indoors, this piece of gear is mostly necessary for children.
But if you’re preparing to tackle challenging rock routes, this piece of personal equipment will soon become essential.
There are countless helmets available.
Most are made from plastic and fiberglass. Their primary purpose is to protect against vertical impacts, so bicycle helmets are not recommended, as they are designed for different purposes. A helmet can save your life. Experienced climbers can share many life-saving stories from their personal experience.
You should choose certified helmets designed specifically for climbing. The thicker the outer layer, the heavier the helmet, and the more impact it can withstand.
The Swiss company Mammut, mentioned earlier, produces high-quality and reliable helmets of various types. Prices start from $80, but a human life is priceless.
The Italian company Climbing Technology specializes in gear not only for climbing and mountaineering but also for high-altitude and rescue work. All their products are certified, reliable, and guarantee safety. Their pricing strategy is somewhat more affordable than Mammut’s: starting at $50. They also recommend Climb X climbing shoes.
This company offers climbing helmets in various types and models. It’s always possible to find one that suits you personally, ensuring proper head protection without discomfort from an ill-fitting helmet.
What’s included in a climber’s specialized gear ->
Now all that’s left is to bring good spirits and head to the climbing gym for an extraordinary experience!
