Climbing walls are a fantastic way to enjoy indoor rock climbing, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber. To ensure comfort, safety, and maximum performance, it’s important to wear the right gear. The right clothing allows you to move freely, stay comfortable, and avoid unnecessary distractions while climbing. In this guide, we’ll go over what to wear for climbing on a wall, covering everything from shoes to layers and accessories.
1. Climbing Shoes
The Importance of Proper Fit
Climbing shoes are arguably the most important piece of equipment for any climber. They provide the necessary grip and support to help you ascend the wall with confidence. A well-fitting pair of climbing shoes will help you perform better and prevent discomfort or injury.
When choosing climbing shoes, look for shoes that fit snugly but are not painful. The fit should be tight enough that your toes are pressed up against the front of the shoe, but not so tight that they cause sharp pain. If you’re just starting, you might want to opt for a slightly more comfortable fit. As you progress, you may prefer a more aggressive fit to maximize performance.
Types of Climbing Shoes
Neutral Shoes: Best for beginners or those who do not climb often. These shoes are comfortable and provide a relaxed fit.
Moderate Shoes: These shoes offer a balance of comfort and performance, with a slight curvature in the shoe’s design for more advanced movements.
Aggressive Shoes: Designed for experienced climbers, these shoes have a more pronounced curve and provide excellent precision for steep walls or overhangs.
Material and Features
Climbing shoes are usually made from leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. Leather shoes mold to your foot shape over time, but they can stretch. Synthetic shoes tend to maintain their shape and are typically more durable. When choosing your climbing shoes, look for features like a rubber sole (which offers grip), a velcro strap (for easy on and off), or laces (which allow for a customizable fit).
2. Climbing Clothes
Comfort is Key
While you don’t need to invest in expensive climbing clothes, wearing the right type of clothing can make a huge difference in your climbing experience. The ideal climbing clothes should be stretchy, breathable, and lightweight. This allows for free movement and helps to regulate body temperature during intense activity.
Tops for Climbing
When selecting a top for climbing, choose something that won’t restrict your movement. Many climbers opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts or tank tops. These fabrics are designed to pull sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable. Some materials to consider include:
Merino Wool: Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, it keeps you cool in warm weather and warm in cold weather.
Polyester or Nylon: These synthetic fabrics are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.
Cotton: While comfortable, cotton can absorb sweat and stay wet, making it less ideal for long climbing sessions.
Avoid shirts with loose sleeves, as they can get caught on holds. If you’re wearing a long-sleeve top, make sure it’s made from a stretchy material that won’t restrict your movement.
Bottoms for Climbing
When it comes to pants or shorts, the key is flexibility. You’ll be twisting, bending, and stretching, so your climbing pants should allow for a full range of motion. Many climbers prefer stretchy leggings, yoga pants, or athletic shorts for these reasons. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:
Climbing Pants: Opt for pants made from stretchable material, such as spandex or elastane, that will allow you to perform dynamic movements without feeling restricted.
Athletic Shorts: These are ideal for warmer weather or indoor climbing where you want to stay cool. Choose shorts that aren’t too tight or too loose.
Tights/Leggings: Great for flexibility and comfort, especially for women, tights or leggings are a popular choice. They’re usually made from stretchy materials and provide freedom of movement.
Joggers or Track Pants: These provide comfort and flexibility and are a good option if you want to wear pants that don’t constrict movement.
Considerations for Layering
While it’s important to wear breathable and comfortable clothing, you may also want to bring extra layers in colder weather. A lightweight jacket or hoodie is a good option for keeping warm before or after climbing. Look for options that are easy to remove when you start getting warm from climbing.
3. Climbing Chalk and Chalk Bag
Why Chalk is Important
Climbing chalk is essential for keeping your hands dry while climbing. Sweaty hands can make it difficult to grip holds securely, which can be frustrating and unsafe. Chalk helps absorb moisture and provides better friction between your skin and the wall.
Choosing the Right Chalk
There are different types of climbing chalk available, including loose powder, block chalk, and liquid chalk. Loose powder is the most common, but liquid chalk is great for reducing mess and is long-lasting.
Chalk Bag
To hold your chalk, you’ll need a chalk bag. These small pouches are worn around your waist and are designed for quick access. When choosing a chalk bag, look for one with an adjustable waist strap and a drawstring closure to keep chalk from spilling out. Some chalk bags also come with pockets for small items like keys or a phone.
4. Climbing Gloves
Are Gloves Necessary for Indoor Climbing?
While gloves aren’t essential for most indoor wall climbing, they can be useful for certain situations. Some climbers use gloves to protect their hands from rope burns or rough holds, especially if they have sensitive skin.
If you choose to wear gloves, make sure they are lightweight and have good grip. Avoid bulky gloves that can hinder your movement or dexterity.
5. Hair and Accessories
Tie Your Hair Back
If you have long hair, make sure to tie it back securely. Loose hair can get in the way while climbing and may even get caught on holds. A simple ponytail, bun, or braid can keep your hair out of your face and help you focus on your climb.
Wear Sunglasses
If you’re climbing outdoors, don’t forget sunglasses. The sun can be intense, and wearing sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while allowing you to see clearly.
6. Footwear for Resting Between Climbs
Sandals or Comfortable Shoes
While climbing shoes are essential for the wall, when you’re not climbing, it’s important to give your feet a break. You can either wear sandals or other comfortable shoes to change into between your climbs. This will help keep your feet cool and relaxed while you’re resting.
7. Optional: Knee Pads and Elbow Pads
When Are Knee and Elbow Pads Necessary?
Some climbers prefer wearing knee pads or elbow pads for additional protection. This is particularly useful when climbing on bouldering walls or tackling problems that require a lot of body contact with the wall. For most indoor climbing, these aren’t necessary, but they can be helpful for certain types of climbing or when practicing falls.
8. Other Accessories to Consider
Climbing Harness (for Roped Climbing)
For roped climbing, you’ll need a climbing harness. This piece of equipment helps keep you secure while climbing and ensures safety when you’re belayed. Make sure your harness fits snugly around your waist and legs and is comfortable for long periods of wear.
Water Bottle and Snacks
Climbing can be an intense workout, and staying hydrated is important. Bring a water bottle and some light snacks (like fruit or energy bars) to keep your energy levels up while climbing.
Climbing Tape
Some climbers use climbing tape to protect their fingers or wrists, especially if they have calluses, blisters, or previous injuries. This can provide extra grip and prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gear for climbing walls is essential for comfort, performance, and safety. The clothing you wear should allow for free movement, while your climbing shoes and accessories should support your technique and keep you safe. Remember to dress in layers when necessary, keep your hands dry with chalk, and give your feet a break between climbs. Whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned climber, the right clothing and accessories will ensure that your climbing experience is enjoyable and safe.
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