Exploration
Basic rock climbing gear for beginners: 12 key items
Wedge yourself between a rock and a hard place in style (if not comfort) with our pick of the best rock climbing gear going.
Whether you’re heading to your local indoor wall to escape the British weather, or are lucky enough to decamp to sunnier climes (and climbs), you’ll likely need some new gear.
If you’re a seasoned pro, or a flat-out beginner, the right equipment can help you take your climbing to new heights.
So, if you want to stand a chance of catching up with Alex Honnold, or simply taking your game to the next level, this is the equipment we recommend.
1. Tension Climbing Block
Tension Climbing Block
© Tension Block
Portable hangboards are great for warm ups and training. Not only is this offering from Tension particularly versatile with nine different hold positions, it’s perfect for use on the crags and in the gym. Made from cherry wood it’s durable enough for both, with a variety of edges, pinches, crimps, and one and two finger pockets, meaning there’s enough to keep even the most seasoned climber fresh.
2. Scarpa Arpia Women's Climbing Shoe
Scarpa Shoe
© Scarpa
This woman’s climbing shoe means business. It has a downturned toe to help you get into those tight crags, and Vibram® XS-Grip 2 across the sole to improve grip and stickiness. Alongside that, it has a single strap for quick and easy adjustment, alongside snug heel cups and padded mesh tongues for a comfortable and cosy fit. At 300g, wearing them isn’t a workout for your feet, either.
3. Black Diamond Men’s Momentum Harness
Black Diamond Harness
© Black Diamond
Your harness is perhaps the most crucial meshing of comfort and reliability in your entire climbing rig. Black Diamond are masters at marrying the two, which is why this men’s harness is such a success. At 350g, it’s light enough, while the time-saving Speed Adjust waist belt buckle will save time and eliminate error when tying in. Meanwhile, the Dual Core Construction emphasises comfort even when you’re posted up at a hanging belay, or just taking in the view.
4. Mammut Alnasca Men’s Climbing Pants
Mammut men's climbing pants
© Mammut
Those clever bods at Mammut have created some of the best climbing trousers out there. Designed to let you move freely, one feature they’re particularly proud of is the gusset crotch which provides additional freedom of movement, while an elasticated insert on the inside of the waistband ensures a perfect fit around the waist, even when you're wearing a climbing harness. With two front pockets and a zippered seat pocket, they’re handy as well as flexible, too.
5. Petzl Kliff Backpack
Petzl's Kliff backpack
© Petzl
With 36 liters of storage, Petzl’s Kliff bag has plenty of room for rope, shoes, snack bars, and water. And, crucially, the large opening lets you get to what you need in a rush. Another great feature is the detachable waterproof cover, which doubles as a 140 x 140cm dry space for laying out your rope. With an empty weight of 750g, it won’t weigh you down, either.
6. Kinetic Newton 4.0 Crashpad
Kinetik Crashpad
© Kinetik
No matter how keen you are to get into bouldering, a good crashpad is absolutely vital. What’s even more vital here is the pad’s omni-flap system which protects the straps from snow, mud, and raid, and means the straps don’t get caught on rocks while you’re manoeuvring it around, either. All of which makes for a more pleasant, straightforward experience before you’ve even started your climb. With a 48” x 36” landing zone and 4” of foam, it’s got your back.
7. Mammut Wall Rider MIPS Climbing Helmet
Mammut's Wall Rider helmet
© Mammut
This unisex, polycarbonate climbing helmet is not only lightweight so as not to impede your upwards momentum, it’s also designed with your head in mind. Mammut knows that rotational motion can cause brain injuries, so the helmet contains 10-15mm low-friction slides to reduce rotational motion during impact, alongside lightweight and durable EPP foam absorbers. All of which is not only nice to have, but could save your life, too.
8. Columbia Women’s Evolution Valley II Jacket
Columbia's Women’s Evolution Valley II Jacket
© Columbia
A reliable jacket is key when it comes to climbing outdoors in the UK. This is one of Columbia’s bestsellers, and with good reason. Both waterproof and breathable, it comes with Omni-Tech technology and underarm venting to keep your temperature regulated on even the toughest crags. With adjustable cuffs and zippered hand pockets, you can quickly and easily grab anything you need, too.
9. Five Ten Aleon Bouldering Shoes
Aleon's Five Ten Aleon Bouldering Shoes
© Adidas
In need of new bouldering shoes? Then look no further. This smart Adidas offering was designed by bouldering guru Fred Nicole, and the expertise shows. They’re semi-stiff to enable movement and reliability with an emphasis on both comfort and performance. Meanwhile, the patent rubber outsole offers unparalleled grip and edging power. The colourways aren’t half bad, either.
10. Maxim Platinum 9.8 Rope
Maxim Platinum 9.8 Rope
© Maxim
This 70 metre, 9.8mm rope can absorb an impact of 8.3 kilonewtons, which means it’s a very reliable option. At 4kg, it won’t add too much weight to your kit, either. Other features include a permanent connection between core and cover which boosts durability and prevents sheath slippage, and red tracer fibres woven in to the rope at the midpoint to let you know you’re reaching the end of the line, which is pretty cool. It may also seem a bit pricy for beginners, but trust us, it's a sound investment.
11. Black Diamond C4 Camalots
Black Diamon Camalots
© Black Diamond
Black Diamond’s latest cams are 10% lighter than the previous iteration with wider triggers for easier pull. Meanwhile, the cam lobes and slings are now brightly coloured for easier identification. What’s more, cams four, five, and six have Trigger Keeper wires that let you keep the lobe down when the cam isn’t in use, allowing you to easily retract the trigger to open the cam before use, meaning they won’t be banging off every rock you come into contact with while you wait to use them. A reliable set ideal for any entry level climber.
12. Rhino Skin Solutions Repair Cream
Rhino repair cream
© Rhino
Climbing with dry, cracked hands is painful. Hanging out post-climb with messed up hands isn’t much better. Rhino are experts in helping you skin recover after a hard day on rock or indoor walls, tackling callouses and cuts with a natural mixture of menthol, magnesium, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil. It doesn't fix broken legs though, so take it easy and if you're ever unsure go with a guide.
What gear do you need to start climbing?
To start climbing, you’ll need some essential gear, including:
- Climbing shoes – Provide grip and support.
- Harness – Keeps you safely secured.
- Chalk and chalk bag – Reduces sweat for better grip.
- Climbing rope – Dynamic rope for lead climbing; static for rappelling.
- Belay device – Assists in managing the rope for safety.
- Carabiners – Used for securing ropes and protection.
- Helmet – Protects from falling debris and impacts.
- Crash pad (for bouldering) – Cushions falls.
What kit do you need for climbing?
The climbing kit depends on the type of climbing:
- Indoor climbing: Shoes, chalk, harness (for lead climbing).
- Sport climbing: Shoes, harness, rope, belay device, quickdraws, helmet.
- Trad climbing: All of the above, plus cams, nuts, and slings for protection.
- Bouldering: Shoes, chalk, crash pad.
How should a beginner start climbing?
- Try indoor climbing first – Gyms provide a controlled, safe environment.
- Learn basic techniques – Practice footwork, balance, and body positioning.
- Use beginner-friendly routes – Climbing gyms grade walls for different skill levels.
- Take a belay course – If rope climbing, learn safety and belay techniques.
- Train grip strength – Climbing relies heavily on finger and forearm endurance.
- Get the right gear – Invest in comfortable shoes and a harness if climbing regularly.
- Climb with experienced partners – Learning from others speeds up progress.
What are the 3 golden rules for climbing technique?
- Use your legs, not just your arms – Your legs are stronger than your arms; push up with them rather than pulling yourself up with your arms.
- Maintain three points of contact – Always have two feet and one hand (or two hands and one foot) on the rock or wall.
- Keep your hips close to the wall – This improves balance and reduces strain on your arms.
What level is a beginner climber?
- Indoor climbing: V0-V2 for bouldering, 5.5-5.9 for top rope and lead climbing.
- Outdoor climbing: Generally 5.5-5.8 on the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS).
- Progression: Beginners should focus on improving technique and endurance before moving to harder grades.
Are belay glasses worth it?
Yes, belay glasses can be worth it, especially for frequent climbers. They help:
- Reduce neck strain from looking up for long periods.
- Improve focus on the climber.
- Enhance safety by reducing fatigue during belaying.
What is the most important climbing gear?
- For all climbing: Shoes, harness, helmet, belay device.
- For sport climbing: Rope, quickdraws, belay device.
- For trad climbing: Cams, nuts, slings.
- For bouldering: Crash pad, chalk.
How do you train for climbing at home?
- Grip strength – Hangboard training, pull-ups, and fingerboard workouts.
- Core strength – Planks, leg raises, and yoga improve balance.
- Leg power – Squats, lunges, and step-ups mimic climbing movements.
- Endurance – High-rep bodyweight exercises and cardio (running, cycling).
- Mobility – Stretching and dynamic movements help with flexibility.