High quality rock climbing gear is essential to being able to enjoy all climbing activities with security and comfort being the key aspects of rock climbing gear. Rock climbing is considered a high risk sport due to the fact that there are numerous hazards and obstacles that are in the way of those who are attempting to run a course and for those attempting to reach higher heights. There are several different types of rock climbing gear that are designed to be able to help provide a safer experience for those who are enjoying the sport – especially for those who are putting themselves at risk by attempting harder obstacle courses.
Rock climbing can be done in different terrain and depending on the rock type, the environmental and weather conditions of day before, and other factors, the activity can pose to be quite a hazard. The different rock climbing gear will be able to ensure the safety of enthusiasts even if accidents like slippages occur. They will keep the athlete safely in place, and will even support their weight. In addition to being a safety mechanism, the rock climbing gears are able to help experts reach new heights that would otherwise be extremely hard to obtain.
There are several different types of rock climbing gear available on the market. Each type has its own purpose in a rock climbing course. They come in a variety of different styles and designs, and each rock climbing gear will come in different lengths and with different customizations in order to provide better comfort for the rock climber. The necessities will include shoes, chalk bags, harnesses, belay devices, locking carabiners, and helmets.
Shoes
Shoes are an important necessity due to the fact that they are able to provide the necessary grip and support needed for the activity. Rock climbing shoes are one of the first pieces of gear that should be purchased, and while there are several different types of rock climbing shoes, the most recommended type are the ones with the stiff soles. The reason being is that those with stiff soles will be able to provide the necessary support to stand on small rock outcroppings. Since numerous courses that are considered difficult will only have small ledges for the rock climbers.
Chalk Bags
Depending on weather and environmental conditions, the outer surface being climbed can be quite slippery or difficult to grip. Chalk bags are another important type of gear in this respect. They will be able to provide some type of grip to the hands of the rock climbers in order to ensure that they will be able to better support themselves. Chalk bags are usually cylinder or pouch shaped, and will have an easy to reach opening for rock climbers to get to the chalk. Depending on the height of the rock being climbed, the environmental conditions, the weather conditions prior, and the texture of the rock, different amounts of chalk will be needed. Only professionals will be able to gauge a precise amount needed as different individuals will require different amounts. It is generally in the rock climber’s best interest to have more chalk than needed.
Harnesses
Harnesses are part of the system used to hold rock climbers in place, and are worn around the pelvis and hip areas. They provide the necessary support needed. There are different types of harnesses that are around, and will be able to provide different types of features to rock climbers. Big Wall climbers will generally prefer harnesses with padding, and sport climbers will normally prefer minimalistic harnesses. Belay devices are mechanical devices used to create friction and will help the rock climber brake on the ropes when they are belaying, or otherwise known as descending. They are available in both active and passive designs. Passive belay devices will rely on the rock climber’s braking hand whereas active belay devices will have a built-in mechanism that will be able to lock the rope in place. The active device is independent from any other piece of equipment. Locking carabiners are the equipment that holds everything in place. There are different types of carabiners that are available on the market, and each design has its own specialty. There are non-locking carabiners and locking carabiners, but locking carabiners tend to be more popular. The locking carabiners will be able to connect different gears in place such as the belay devices. They are used as a preventive method in keeping the gate closed, and there are several different types of locking carabiners as well. Together, all of the equipment will be able to create and provide a support system for rock climbers.
Helmets
Last but not least, a helmet can protect rock climbers from a fatal blow in case of any fall. Accidents do occur, and some are inevitable. The head is one of the most important body parts as one blow can be lethal. Due to this reason, a helmet is used for protection purposes. In case the head was to suffer from a blow, he helmet will be able to protect the head, cushion it from the fall, and ensure that it will suffer smaller consequences as a return. Due to this reason, it is important to be able to find a helmet that will be able to provide a proper fit to the head with the necessary type of cushion that will be able to absorb the majority of the impact.
Rock climbers will want to spend an extensive amount of time seeking the perfect gear that will be able to provide them with the safety and security that they are seeking. There are numerous different types of brands, designs, styles, sizes, and other features that are available in the market, and different individuals will want to focus on different specifications in order to ensure that they are able to find a product that will be able to cater to their needs, and provide them with not only the security, but also the comfort that they need. While security is the main goal of the equipment, rock climbers will also want to find high quality gear that is comfortable as well in order to have the best outdoors experience possible. High quality gear will be able to ensure safety and security which can be critical for those who are attempting harder obstacles.