Click for Climbing Gear Strenghts

Recommended reading:
How to Rock Climb! By John Long

Climbing and Rock and Ice magazines

Mountaineering packs:
A technical pack like the one pictured here is worth the investment. This pack features a crampon pocket, ice tool sleeves, compression straps and a detachable top pocket.

This pack also features an extra long spin drift extension that helps keep snow out of the pack. This feature also allows the pack to be used as an emergency bivouac sack

For winter mountaineering and ice climbing you'll need a pack that will hold at least 3000 cubic inches.

Packs designed for rock climbing:

Some packs are designed specifically for rock climbing. The pack pictured at left can be converted for hauling, a great feature.

Rock packs are at least 2000 cubic inches - barely enough room for your gear and some extra clothes.

Helmets
Protect your melon!

Recent innovations and new materials have made helmets lighter and more comfortable.

Ice climbers wear helmets, without exception. Helmets are becoming increasingly popular among rock climbers recently.

Rock shoes:
Yes, they really do make a big difference - you will climb better and enjoy it more with the right rock shoes.

Several different styles and different brand abound. Prices vary widely. Shop around.

Fit them tight...but not to tight!

Hardware: Carabiners, chocks, belay devices and spring loaded camming devices make a climbers rack. Most climber put the big gear at the back of the gear sling so it help push the smaller, lighter gear toward the front where it is easy to reach.

Visit Black Diamond for more on "getting started"

More on gear later...

Ropes:
Pictured here is a kern/mantle rope - a two piece construction. The outer, colorful part is the mantle. The mantle effects the handling characteristics of the rope. The inner kern is white and gives the rope it's strength and elasticity.
Single lines, double lines, dry line, 50 meter or 60 meter - all decisions to make when selecting a rope. All climbing ropes are pretty much equal when it comes to safety for the beginner climber. Ask your salesman for more info. Check out REI for more info.