Rock Climbing Equipment | Sport Climbing Equipment

Sport Climbing Equipment

Sport climbing involves rock climbing on walls with bolts drilled into the rock along the route. There are two bolts at the top, generally with chains for rappelling when you are done. You will need to lead climb up the route, using the bolts as protection for falling along the way. A quickdraw is two carabiners connected with a short sling. You clip one carabiner of the quickdraw into the bolt and then clip the rope through the other carabiner. Lead climbing can be dangerous if you climb something too difficult so start easy and learn from an expert.

Sport climbing at Red Rocks, Nevada, USA

If you are starting to lead sport climbs, here’s what you’ll need:

Climbing Harness - Your climbing harness connects you to the rope and is also where you clip your quickdraws and other gear. Look for harnesses with adjustable leg loops, 4 gear loops and comfy padding.
Belay Device with Locking Carabiner - You will need to have a belay device to belay your climbing partner as well as for rappelling. GriGri’s can be great auto-locking belay devices if you use them well, but you will also need a basic ATC for rappelling.
Rock Climbing Shoes - Get some good shoes that fit well. If you need some pointers, check out my guide to rock climbing shoes.
Climbing Rope - You will need either a 60-meter or 70-meter dynamic climbing rope. Being able to find the middle of the rope easily is important for safety as well as useful when coiling your rope, so I recommend bi-pattern ropes, which simplify that greatly. Before you get on a climb, check the guidebook to make sure your rope is long enough and always tie a knot in the end in case it is too short.
15-20 Quickdraws - Before you get on a climb, make sure that you have enough quickdraws, including two for the top of the climb. It’s also a good idea to carry a few extra with you in case you drop one. I recommend quickdraws with wire gates. They are the lightest and easiest to clip, without sacrificing strength.
Helmet - protect your head while climbing. Helmets are also good to wear while you are belaying in case the climber dislodges loose rock.
Chalk Bag with Carabiner - keep your hands dry so your hands don’t slip. Many bags come with a waist belt, which is great for bouldering, but I prefer clipping my chalk bag to my harness for sport climbing.