Kiki’s Beginner Guide to Indoor Rock Climbing Equipment

Indoor rock climbing equipment shouldn’t be a barrier to begin a new hobby. Rock climbing is not only a fantastic way to get fit but also an excellent hobby to relax and unwind.

Sometimes it does happen that Kiki starts climbing without being tied into the rope, which makes her climbing friends freak out. Take it from her, being forgetful is scary and making sure you have the right equipment safe should be first and foremost in your mind when starting a route.

You need not worry, though! Kiki is here to help you with everything a new climbing enthusiast needs to get you right into the action!

Indoor Rock Climbing Equipment

As excited as you are, make sure you’re prepared. Enjoy your first couple of sessions with rental equipment. Once you’re hooked, it’s time to prepare your own equipment bag.

Make Your Mark

A trademark of rock wall climbing is the chalk bag and, of course, the chalk.

When you see this powdery white goodness dancing about, it’s not just for the show. The use of chalk helps to dry your hands and improve your grip when finding holds.

There are a few forms of chalk, and it’s a mix of preference and gym rules for which type you use. For example, some gyms require eco chalk as it’s colorless, preventing holds and rock surfaces from being marked over time.

The bag, however, isn’t regulated so go wild!

Walk a Mile

Shoes say a lot about the man, or woman, and are especially important when it comes to your indoor rock climbing equipment.

They’ll have a little padding, a tight fit, and a sticky rubber sole.

This doesn’t mean they should be uncomfortable.

Discomfort can be a sign that you have the wrong size and the fit can differ between women’s and men’s shoes.

You’ll need some trial and error here, so take your time, but don’t spend too much money on your first pair. As a newbie, you’ll likely run through them fast so don’t invest just yet.

Hold Me Close

A good, comfortable, harness is your best friend on a climb.

Safety is number one when it comes to your harness, and there are two certifying agencies to look out for; UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation) and CE (European Community).

These two organizations run a battery of tests on their certified equipment to make sure they’re ready to save your life.

Your harness can be adjusted for size and used to hook on various pieces of equipment.

Strong Connection

Your belay device is your essential link to the ground.

The belay device connects to the harness of your partner (or in some cases an auto-belay) and is used to raise or lower you as you climb. With the use of a carabiner the belay device is connected to your own harness and applies friction to the rope.

This piece of equipment is required for all outdoor climbs, so if you think you’ll want to get out of the gym, it’s even more critical for you.

Find Your Rock Climbing Gym

You have a lot of work ahead of you gathering your indoor rock climbing equipment, but you’ll find rock climbing to be one of the most rewarding sports out there. Today you may be studying indoor rock climbing for beginners, tomorrow you’ll be racing to the top of your gym’s wall.

While you’re getting pumped up for your new hobby, don’t forget safety. As impressive as rock climbing is (and it’s pretty remarkable) you still want to practice due diligence before you leave the ‘beginner’ stage.

Be safe, have fun, and find not only a great gym but a store that caters to the unique rock climber you strive to be!