by Rena Sandou

Created on: July 27, 2010

Rock climbing is one of the most popular and addictive sports nowadays. Climbing either indoors or outdoors demands skill, concentration, balance, good body shape and of course, the proper climbing equipment. The appropriate gear will keep you safe allowing you to fully enjoy the thrill or reaching the summit of the rock formation.

In particular:

1. Ropes

There are generally four different types of climbing ropes; statics, dynamic singles, dynamic doubles and dynamic twins. All four types have different uses and abilities. Specifically:

- Statics

Statics ropes are exclusively used in rappelling and rigging due to their unique ability not to stretch. Especially in abseiling, statics ropes are the only appropriate type. On the other hand, statics are harshly forbidden for guide climbing.

- Dynamic Singles

As the name implies, dynamic singles are an excellent choice for either natural rock formations or artificial ones. Their ability to stretch under any load and absorb the impact force of a possible fall makes them your number one friend. Thin dynamic singles are highly suggested mostly due to their light weight and longer lifetime.

- Dynamic Doubles

Professional climbers recommend the dynamic doubles for double rock climbing or difficult courses. Dynamic ropes are in fact double ropes making it easier for you to cover longer distances. Additionally, they maximize protection mostly because they are significantly stronger comparing to single ropes.

- Dynamic Twins

Dynamic twins are generally used in ice climbing. Being extremely solid, the dynamic twins ropes promise prolonged lifetime as it is rather hard to get cut by sharp rocks.

- Dry Ropes

All climbing ropes come into two major types; customary and dry ones. When climbing indoors, it is best to purchase the customary ropes but for ice or difficult outdoor courses, it is highly suggested to choose the dry ones. Dry ropes are waterproof preventing water to turn into ice in low temperature.

2. Climbing Harnesses

Choosing the right harness may be a daunting task but it is essential as it provides protection to the climber. There are three major types of climbing harnesses; sit strings, chest harnesses and full-body harnesses. Professional climbers suggest the sit strings as they offer full body motion and flexibility. Nevertheless, if your backpack is full, then you should choose the chest harness transferring all loads to it. Full body harnesses are ideal for climbing with children. Rescuers also prefer the

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>