by Nan C Avery

Created on: July 15, 2010

Rock climbing is becoming a popular pastime.  Schools are discovering the benefits of rock climbing as a process of building confidence and trust.  Adults are discovering the thrill of mountain climbing.  Most mountain climbing begins on a rock wall and progresses to the next stage of climbing outdoors.  The basic equipment needed for climbing helps the climber safely reach their mountaintop goal.  As you learn and practice, you will need and want more sophisticated equipment.  The following is a guide to the ten most basic equipment needed.

1.  Helmet – You will see climbers who do not wear helmets.  They are either foolish or vain.  A helmet, when fitted properly, can save you from losing your mind!  The helmet should fit well and not be loose.

2.  Shoes – Shoes are expensive and well worth the price.  Pick shoes that have a stiff, smooth sole.  The sole should be made of rubber.  The shoe should fit so snugly that it is like a second skin.  It takes getting used to since you cannot move your foot inside the shoe.  The purpose of the tightness is to provide you with control as you climb.

3.  Rope –  Dynamic:  It should be kernmantle construction.  Kernmantle construction means that the core (kern) is braided nylon fibers covered with a braided nylon sheath (mantle).  This type of construction is stronger than the three broad strands twisted together (traditional laid rope).  Kernmantle rope stretches under tension.  This is important because the rope is to hold falling climbers.  If it did not stretch, the climber would  abruptly and painfully be jerked upward.  The rope is usually ten millimeters in diameter (four to four and a half inches) and fifty meters long (165 feet). Static:  This rope has less stretch and is used for anchoring.  It is also used for rappelling and ascender.

4.  Carabiners – These are necessary for linking rope together, harnesses and anchors.  There are several different kinds of carabiner designs.  All are spring-loaded which makes them remain closed until you push them open. The place, where the carabiner closes, is the gate. They are extremely strong and can hold up to two tons.  The most basic design is the “D”.  It is uneven in shape so that the rope will push against the solid surface away from the side gate.  The older “oval”

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