The Skillup voucher for your loved ones
18. April 2023
verpasse keine Termine mehr
Erfahre als erstes von neuen Terminen und Angeboten
Summer is here and you want to use it to get into climbing? In addition to a good introduction to the right safety techniques, you will of course also need the right equipment. But what do you need as a beginner? What equipment is necessary and what should you pay attention to? We’ll give you an overview.
One thing first – we’re referring here to rock climbing and indoor climbing. Not bouldering. Less or different equipment is usually required here than for sport climbing.
Climbing shoes and the tiresome topic of the right size… There are numerous preconceptions that climbing finches have to be as uncomfortable as possible. This is definitely not the case! Nevertheless, it is important that they fit snugly and that there are as few gaps as possible. This applies to the toe box as well as the heels. This is important for correct power transmission on small steps. If the shoe is too big, for example, there is a risk of your foot slipping quickly. If the shoe is too tight, you will be in so much pain after the second route that you won’t enjoy climbing any further.
In addition to the size, the fit is also very important. To avoid cavities in the shoe, it must fit the shape of your foot. All the major brands offer different models with different fits.
When it comes to comfort, climbing shoes for beginners are clearly ahead of those for advanced climbers: shoes with little pretension (=curvature) are recommended for beginners, as well as shoes with a harder sole. This is recommended because the foot muscles of beginners are not yet as well developed. A hard sole has a supportive effect and therefore your muscles will not tire so quickly.
Which lacing and material you choose is up to you. However, bear in mind that, depending on the material, your shoes may widen considerably with repeated use (leather). You should take this into account when making your purchase. It’s best to go to your local sports store and try out different models, materials and lacings to see what you like best.
If necessary, it is advisable to use rental equipment for the first 1-2 days of climbing so that you can test different models in use.
One thing first – we are referring here to rock climbing and indoor climbing. Not bouldering. This usually requires less or different equipment than sport climbing.
With a climbing harness, the most important thing is where it will be used. If you want to climb alpine or multi-pitch routes in the long term, it makes sense to invest in an appropriate harness right from the start. After all, harnesses are much more durable than climbing shoes, for example. A harness that will accompany you for several years should be well padded, have adjustable leg loops and good gear loops. Although such models are somewhat heavier than simple sports climbing harnesses (approx. 500g vs. approx. 300g), they are suitable for all areas of use (top rope and lead climbing as well as alpine climbing or multi-pitch climbing).
A basic distinction is made between semi-automatic and dynamic belay devices. Semi-automatic devices have blocking support and can therefore prevent a fall to the ground if mistakes are made when belaying. This makes them very suitable for beginners. Of course, this does not mean that you can be careless when securing!
Every belay device is operated differently. Before using it for the first time, you should make sure that you know how to use it. In our beginners’ courses, we explain how to use all common belay devices.
The carabiner serves as a connection between the belay device and the harness. Here too, there are various designs. Manufacturers of belay devices often recommend a special type of carabiner or supply them with the device. At best, you are on the safe side with carabiners with a “Safe-Lock” closure.
The right rope for beginners depends on whether you mainly want to climb indoors or on rock. Ropes for indoor climbing are somewhat heavier, but more durable. If you prefer rock climbing and therefore have to carry your rope further, you should choose a lighter rope. As you won’t be climbing in the Alps to begin with, you can do without impregnation. However, it does make sense to use a slightly thicker rope (approx. 10 mm), which can slow down the fall somewhat.
You only need to buy quickdraws if you want to climb on rock. They are already attached in the hall. They are there to connect the rope and the bolt to each other.
to connect. Basically, all types of quickdraws are suitable for beginners
. It is better to play it safe with the number of quickdraws. Depending on the
route, you will need around 8-15, but it’s better to take 1-2 too many than too few!
You only need a helmet on the rock, but it is very important here. Especially if you are not sure whether rocks could come loose and fall on you. In addition,
you will also be better protected from hitting the
rock in the event of a fall. When choosing your helmet, make sure it fits well.
It should stay where it is, especially when looking up.
With this equipment you are well prepared! For your own safety, however,
you should be sure to be able to handle all the equipment, as well as the belay and everything that goes with it
correctly. You will learn all this in our rookie
sessions and will then be well prepared for your further trips to
the wall!
Erfahre als erstes von neuen Terminen und Angeboten