Six pieces of equipment you need for climbing

Keen to start indoor climbing but don’t know where to start? These are the six essential pieces you need to stay safe and protected.

Climbing rope

Ropes are your single most important piece of equipment. Look for dynamic ropes that stretch slightly and reduce the impact if you fall.

Climbing harness

Your harness should fit comfortably around your waist and legs, giving you a full range of motion. Look for padding, ventilation, moisture control and extra-wide webbing.

Belay device

Belaying is an essential climbing skill, and a good belay device could save your life. Basically, this is a mechanical friction brake that can lower you safely after a fall. It’s a good idea to try out your belay device in a controlled environment like //www.270climbing.com first.

Carabiner

A locking carabiner is another essential piece of kit. They have multiple uses in climbing, but the locking type is a good choice for attaching you to your belay device so it can’t accidentally open, causing an accident

Climbing shoes

You can’t set foot on a climbing wall without them, and you wouldn’t want to. These specialised lightweight shoes are designed to fit your foot tightly, and have thin soles for friction and grip. It’s essential to get the right fit because you’ll rely on them to stand on the tiniest footholds.

Chalk bag

If you’re going indoor bouldering Cheltenham, you’ll need a chalk bag to keep your hands sweat-free and give you a better grip.

If you plan on climbing outdoors, always wear a safety helmet.