Stay Cool: How to Pick Out Climbing Clothes for the Summer

Rock climbing is sweeping the nation. It has continued to grow in popularity all across the world. So much so that it will be introduced in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

With the rise of rock climbing, there has been an increase in options for what clothing you should wear. Of course, as smart shoppers, you want to look at all the options. Not only for comfort but for safety too.

Below we will review the best summer climbing clothes you can choose for your next adventure.

Loose-Fitting Climbing Clothes

When you’re out rock climbing, you’ll want to wear long, loose-fitting, shorts. If you choose shorter shorts, you may find that they will get stuck above your harness leg loops. This, in turn, will lead to chafing on your legs from the nylon loops.

You want to find shorts that extend past your knees and are about 4 inches below your leg loops. If you shop for climbing-specific shorts, you won’t have any issue finding what you need.

On the upper half of your body, you will want to wear either a loose shirt, such as a t-shirt or tank top. If you are a woman a sports bra works just as well.

Make sure your clothes aren’t too baggy or too tight, as they will hinder your movement. Moreover, if they are too baggy they could get caught up in the ropes.

Types of Climbing Clothes You Should Wear

When you head out to climb it’s important to choose the right clothing for your adventure. You want to ensure you’re comfortable, but at the same time, wearing clothing that will keep you safe and cool.

Synthetic Clothes

Synthetic clothing (such as nylon and polyester) protects your skin from the sun. On top of that, the fabric can easily breath allowing you to stay cool. It is loose enough that you won’t have to worry about it restricting you while you’re climbing.

Synthetic fabrics dry quickly, keeping moisture away from your skin. You won’t have to worry about your sweat building up. Moreover, if you find yourself caught out in the rain, you won’t have to worry about your clothes staying damp.

Finally, this type of fabric adds a level of comfort and stretchability. This prevents chafing from happening.

Make sure to pick synthetic clothing that has some level of durability. You will be dealing with a lot of abrasive rocks which can destroy your clothing.

Light-Colored Clothes

When you’re out climbing, make sure to choose more light-colored clothing options. This type of clothing will reflect both heat and light, keeping you cooler during your climb.

Avoid Cotton

Cotton will absorb moisture, but won’t dry quickly. If you’re planning on climbing at higher altitudes, the temperature will begin to drop. This will occur even during the summer months. This means you have the potential of catching hypothermia.

If you aren’t climbing that high, you can choose to wear cotton, but you still need to be careful. The other forms of clothing listed are much more preferable. Cotton may add a layer of comfort when you first put it on, but it doesn’t breath as well.

The cotton will leave you feeling damp by the time your climbing adventure is over. Make sure to remove any cotton clothing as soon as possible once your climb is over.

Climbing Shoes

You will want rock climbing-specific shoes. Based on what type of climbing you intend to do, will determine the right type of shoes for you.

Let’s Get Climbing

That wraps up our journey on the types of climbing clothes best suited for summer. Now, it’s time to look at what gear you will need. No matter the length of your rock climb, you want to ensure you’re protected.