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Whether you’re hitting your local indoor wall to escape the weather or are lucky enough to head to the sunnier climes, you need a range of climbing gear to face those challenging routes. No matter if you’re a seasoned pro or are just curious about getting into rock climbing, the importance of having a versatile and dependable kit can’t be overemphasized. Getting your hands on the right type of climbing gear can help you hone your skills and take your climbing passion to new heights.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of cheap products on the market, increasing your chances of ending up with low-quality climbing gear. Buying the wrong equipment can cause injury and potentially put your life at risk, so it’s important to do your homework before assembling your climbing kit. Let's look at the top climbing gear in 2022 to help you prepare for your next adventure.
Climbing ropes are an essential piece of climbing gear. They allow you to have a firm grip and scale vertical walls without falling. This means that you can reach more challenging heights, which improves your overall performance. Available in different lengths, this climbing rope is perfect for beginners and pros alike for both indoor and outdoor use. Made from strong and durable materials, this climbing rope is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. What’s more, this rope is lightweight and flexible, which makes it easy to maneuver. Being super soft and tear-resistant, this product is sure to stay strong even after repeated use. Thanks to its durability and enhanced grip, this climbing gear has earned the top spot on the list.
Made of high-grade polyester and nylon
Can bear up to 4,400 pounds
Made of 13 whole core ropes
Available from 32 to 1,000 feet lengths
This sling runner is a must-have piece of climbing gear for a safe experience. It combines a winning combo of lightweight, comfortable handling, easy deployment, and minimal bulk. With the tubular shape of its webbing, this sling runner easily slides through carabiners. You can conveniently attach your climbing shoes to your harness with this simple yet sturdy climbing gear. The shoe loop attaches directly to the runner, which provides greater flexibility and comfort. This product is CE and UIAA certified, guaranteeing that it meets international safety standards. As nylon is on the cheaper side than most other materials, this climbing gear offers longer service life without digging holes in your pocket.
Sewn-in bar-tack for enhanced durability
Available in different widths and lengths
Carabiners are a vital piece of climbing equipment for any climber to attach to a rope for rappelling. They are durable, rustproof, and capable of withstanding rough use. Featuring a twist-lock design, these carabiners can be operated with one hand. You just need to twist it to the barrel and push lightly against the spring load to open one; it will also automatically lock once you release the spring load. The auto-locking feature keeps the carabiner securely attached to the rope, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally releasing the carabiner with the twist-lock design. The thoughtfully crafted design makes it extremely easy to adjust the carabiner for maximum security and comfort. The best part? These are super lightweight and won’t bulk up the weight of your climbing kit during outdoor adventures.
Made from heavy-duty aluminum alloy
Can hold up to 5,620 pounds
Hand ascenders are small devices that enable you to climb quickly and effectively. They are designed to hold onto your hand while you are ascending. The Newdoar Climbing Hand Ascender is UIAA and CE certified, rustproof, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor climbing. It’s extremely light and compact, making it easy to pack away into your backpack. A non-slip rubber grip tape covers the metal bar to prevent slippage and provide greater friction. The ascender works well for both single and double-handed climbing. Plus, this piece of climbing gear comes in a range of colors and sizes for right or left hands.
The Weanas Thicken Climbing Harness is one of the most important climbing accessories on the market. It’s made from high-quality materials and is built to last. The straps are ergonomic and comfortable, providing superior support. The durable bearing loop and padding make it easy to move around in and help you keep your balance. The shoulder straps and padded waist belt are adjustable and wide enough to accommodate most people. The half-body climbing harness features a dual-locking buckle system that ensures that the buckles stay securely closed. The soft lining ensures that you stay comfortable and secure during your climb.
Fits waist of 20 to 46 inches
Leg loop size of 15 to 27 inches
There are many types of climbing gear available on the market today. Before buying any item, it’s important to understand its basic purpose and the way it will help you achieve your goal. You should consider your personal needs and preferences to choose the right product. This handy buying guide will give you a sneak peek into the important aspects of choosing the right climbing gear.
Most climbing gear is designed to fit people with standard sizes — but some items cater to specific body shapes. For example, women might prefer a wider waist belt and more shoulder padding than men. Similarly, children may require smaller harnesses and shorter ropes. It’s a good idea to try out the gear before purchasing.
You should also decide whether you would like to buy a fashionable piece of gear. Many items look great and can have practical value. Do you want your gear to blend in with your other clothes? Or would you rather have something that helps you stand out from the crowd? If you are going to wear it every day, you should opt for a comfortable and durable style that you won’t get tired of.
You should check the weight of each item to see if it’s suitable for your needs without making your climbing kit bulky. The lighter the item, the easier it is to carry around. But you should not sacrifice durability for weight. A heavier piece of gear may withstand rougher use, making it more reliable.
It’s also good to research the manufacturing company to find out about their reputation. Some companies produce high-quality gear, while others offer cheaper alternatives with a lower level of quality. Don’t compromise your safety for a low price.
Many climbing gear items are made using strong materials such as nylon and polyester. These materials are durable and can withstand rough usage. But it’s still important to pay attention to the safety features of each item.
If you still aren't sure what you need, here are some quick points to help you get started.
Consider your requirements and preferences
Make sure that the product is safe for climbing
Choose a product that is convenient for you to use
Check the weight of the equipment to make sure it’s within your limits
A: This is an important question because you want to ensure that your gear is safe for use. New gear comes with a guarantee, whereas derivative products might not be as well maintained and could compromise your safety. You should always buy new gear unless you are on a tight budget.
A: Some gear is unsafe. It might be missing parts, or the stitching might be frayed. There are other aspects of your equipment that you can check to determine its safety, however. For example, you should examine the fasteners to ensure they are in working order. Also, you should test your gear before using it. This way, you can see if it feels right.
A: It is possible to use gear designed for other sports, but this depends on the type of climbing you intend to do. For instance, you cannot use mountaineering gear while rock climbing. Similarly, you should avoid using ice climbing gear for bouldering. In general, it is best to stick to gear designed specifically for climbing, particularly the type you plan to do.
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