The Complete Guide to Buying Climbing and Rock Climbing Equipment: Safe Choices for Every Experience Level

Climbing and rock climbing tools, such as climbing shoes, climbing backpacks, climbing sticks, climbing harnesses, climbing hammers, and carabiners, are essential for these sports, which somehow provide the safety and comfort of climbers. So it is necessary to investigate and study about these tools and equipment. Uninformed selection and purchase of climbing and rock climbing equipment can cause many risks and irreparable injuries in addition to unpleasant experience. The list of tools and equipment, key features, best brands and models, key buying tips, how to use and maintain are the things you should consider for an ideal purchase.

Learn more about climbing and rock climbing tools:

Climbing tools: essential equipment for climbing

Climbing tools include the following:

• Climbing shoes
• Climbing clothes
• Waterproof clothing or cover
• Hat and gloves
• backpack
• Types of batons or climbing canes (clips, screws, folding)
• gaiter
• Climbing ropes (dynamic and static)
• carabiner
• stray carabiner
• Runes and slings
• nail and rock holder (anchor)
• Holder for snow or ice climbing (snow and ice anchor)
• Ice pick
• crampon
• First aid kit and essential supplies
• Flashlight and headlamp with extra battery
• Compass, GPS device and physical map
• sleeping bag
• Travel tent
• underlay
• Sufficient food and water
• Plate, spoon and fork
• Cooking utensils and torches
• Sanitary and personal items
• Rescue equipment
• Electronic equipment and navigation
• headlamp
• mobile phone
• power bank
• Identification documents
• rescue whistle

_{Photo source: mag.berimkouh.com website. Photographer: Unknown}

Key features of climbing gear for travel

Climbing tools and camping equipment for travel, each has its own special features that you need to weigh before buying to make the best choice; But in general, the things that are common to all equipment include quality and durability, comfort and performance, sustainability and environmental protection, satisfaction and enjoyment of mountain climbing by the user, and safety and preparation for emergencies. In the following, the features of some climbing equipment and tools are mentioned.

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Key features of hiking shoes

Shoes are one of the most important equipment needed for mountaineering, which should be chosen based on features such as the type of use (rock climbing, ice climbing, climbing in summer and winter), the strength and durability of the upper and sole of the shoe, the sole with high adhesion, the level of support for the sole, the ankle. and the ankle, the type of protective design, light weight, adaptability, waterproofness and breathability of the upper of the shoe, brand validity, warranty validity, etc.

Key features of mountaineering clothing

The key features of mountaineering clothing include many items, among which one can refer to the brand, the level of resistance to wind, cold and water, breathability, the type of design and attention to detail, weight, comfort, durability and useful life, and the quality of raw materials. did

Key features of a hiking backpack

A backpack is one of the most important tools in mountaineering that helps you carry the supplies and equipment you need during your adventure in nature. To buy this device, it is enough to pay attention to features such as ease of carrying, capacity and size, design, weight, durability and useful life, quality of raw materials, resistance to water and humidity, number of compartments, brand, top material and inner lining. did

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Key features of a baton or climbing stick

A baton or climbing cane is an excellent tool for maintaining stability and helping to take the weight off the knees while hiking and climbing long and difficult routes. Among the features of this practical device, we can mention weight, handle material, mechanism and type of body alloy.

Key features of the sleeping bag

There are different types of sleeping bags, each of which has its own characteristics and capabilities; But in general, we can point to things such as light weight and volume, durability and long life, compatibility with the environment, having breathability and waterproof properties, and the ability to retain heat and resist cold, as the best features of a sleeping bag.

Key features of the travel tent

A travel tent is considered one of the most important equipments when spending the night in nature, and it is better to buy it based on its features such as capacity, height, multi-season tent, ventilation, material, double-layer or single-layer, ease of installation, waterproof and windproof coating, and its dimensions. He was careful.

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The best brands and models of climbing tools

In the selection of climbing equipment and tools, there are various brands and models whose performance and high quality attract those interested in this activity. Below are some of the best brands and models of climbing gear:

The best brands and models of climbing shoes

Among the best brands of climbing shoes are Salomon, Lowa, Keen, Oboz, La Sportiva, Scarpa, “The North Face”, “Columbia”, “Cater Pilar”, “Karimor”, “Merrell”, “Snow Hawk” and “Humtto” pointed out. “Pama” and “Lavan” brands are also among the best Iranian brands. Each of the mentioned brands have several models for mountaineering that you can choose based on the type of trip, price, general conditions and personal taste.

The best brands and models of climbing clothing

Almost all brands that produce travel equipment have special clothing for this activity among their products. Some of these brands are “Quechua”, “Millet”, “Kailas”, “Snow Hawk”, “Under Armor” and “The North Face”. are

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The best brands and models of mountaineering backpacks

Several brands operate in the industry of mountaineering backpacks, among which the most prominent ones are “REI”, “EMS”, “Deuter”, “Low Alpine” and “Milt”. Millet) pointed out.

The best brands and models of batons or climbing sticks

Most of the world’s brands have batons or climbing sticks among their products; But “Snow Hawk”, “Black Diamond”, “LEKI”, “Komperdell”, “Pomoca”, “Petzel”, “Anti-Shock” Antishock, Pekynew, and Exponent are among the most popular climbing batons.

The best sleeping bag brands and models

There are many types of sleeping bags, some of which are more popular due to their features and high quality. The best of these brands are Marmot, Snow Hawk, Deuter, Nemo, and The North Face.

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The best brands and models of travel tents

Many brands are active in the field of tent production, the best of which include “Husky”, “Easy Camp”, “Naturehike”, “Coleman”, “Humtto”. , “Snow Hawk”, “Nemo”, “Marmot”, “Kovea”, “Salewa” and “FIT” they become

Tips for using and maintaining climbing tools

Proper use and maintenance of climbing tools has a great impact on their efficiency and longevity. It may also affect safety. In the following, important points are mentioned in this regard:

Tips for using and maintaining climbing shoes

Tips for proper use of hiking shoes include choosing the right one, fitting the foot shape, tying the straps correctly and using the right socks while wearing them. Also, for the maintenance of climbing shoes, it is better to clean and dry them in proper conditions after each climbing program. Remember that using wax and protectors periodically can help extend the life of your shoes. If you do not use the hiking shoes for a long time, store them in a dry and cool place.

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Tips for using and maintaining climbing clothing

For the proper use of climbing clothes, consider choosing them in layers so that you can control your body temperature in different weather conditions. Most professional climbers first wear a layer to absorb body sweat and then a layer of polyester as insulation. Finally, depending on the weather conditions, they use a windbreaker or a jacket that has features such as windproof, waterproof and breathable to keep themselves safe.

Tips for maintaining mountaineering clothing include proper washing, drying in an open space away from direct sunlight, using special and mild detergents, using protective sprays, and storing them in dry and cool places.

Tips for using and maintaining a climbing backpack

For optimal use, try not to make the final weight of the backpack more than 7 to 10 kg. First loosen the straps of the backpack and then put it on the shoulders. After making sure that it fits correctly on the body, adjust the straps. Pay attention that the backpack belt is fastened on the hip bone. Fastening the chest strap will also help you bear the weight of the backpack.

Maintaining a backpack also has a significant impact on its useful life; Therefore, try to get a cover for it so that if it gets dirty, just wash the cover. If you had to wash the backpack, warm water and soap and hand washing is the best option. When transporting petroleum and flammable materials, pack them well so that backpacks and other items are not contaminated. Also, make sure to empty it completely after every trip; Because food, dishes and wet and dirty clothes can cause damage and shorten the useful life of the backpack.

Tips for using and maintaining a baton or climbing cane

For practical use of a baton or climbing cane, you can adjust its height before starting climbing and remember that the length of the baton increases on downhill routes and decreases on uphill routes. Tie the baton strap around your wrist properly so that it doesn’t get thrown or hit if you let go. Using this device on different levels, such as stony paths, requires more balance, and it is suggested to use both canes on such paths, and on snowy and icy paths, use special tips and protective caps.

To properly maintain a baton or a climbing cane, it is better to clean them with a soft cloth and water after each use in nature. Dry the parts such as their straps that are cloth in suitable conditions. Periodically check the parts of this device so that if they need to be repaired or replaced, do them. Using protective caps during storage has a significant effect on protecting the metal tips of the baton.

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Tips for using and maintaining a sleeping bag

To use the sleeping bag properly, always sleep with clean and dirt-free clothes inside it. Open and close the zippers slowly. If the campsite is fixed, expose it to the open air and mild sun every day. Always use an underlay for sleeping bags; This will help its health and longevity.

To maintain the sleeping bag, always keep it dry and clean. Avoid compressing it for a long time. Washing the sleeping bag should be done manually with the help of a mild detergent and always be placed in the open air and in the mild sun to dry. For long-term storage, put them in large bags so as not to damage their feathers or inner fibers.

Tips for using and maintaining a travel tent

To use a travel tent, it is better to follow the tips such as choosing the right place to set up, using the underlay, correct installation and creating proper ventilation under all conditions in order to have a more enjoyable camping experience. Also, the tips for maintaining this practical device in nature tourism include cleaning before collection, using a suitable and protective cover, periodic inspection and repairs if necessary. Also, if you plan not to use your tent for a while, store it in a cool and dry environment, semi-compressed or open.

Rock Climbing Tools: Preparing for Rock Challenges

Rock climbing tools include the following:

• Climbing harness
• Rock climbing helmet
• Rock climbing shoes
• Rock climbing clothes
• rock climbing hammer
• Piton
• Types of carabiners (simple, screw, pear-shaped and HMS)
• ATC
• Powder and powder bag
• Eight landings
• Daisy Chain
• Yumar
• Roll and roll drill
• Kroll
• Grigri
• Prusik rope
• shunt
• Fifihook
• pulley
• Reverso
• Belt (sling) and quickdraw
• stair step
• Self Support (Connect Adjust)
• Intermediate support tools
• mobile phone
• Identification documents

_{Photo source: website setareh.camp. Photographer: Unknown}

Features of rock climbing tools suitable for travel

Climbing tools for travel, each has its own special features that you need to weigh before buying in order to make the best choice. The features of some climbing equipment and tools are mentioned below:

Key features of a climbing harness

Harness is considered one of the important tools for rock climbing, and its key features that you should pay attention to when buying are the same type of leg loop, the narrowness of the waist in women’s models, the quality of the raw materials, the fit with the body shape, the appropriate width of the straps, ease of use. Noted in wear and comfort.

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Key features of a rock climbing helmet

A helmet actually protects the rock climber’s head like a shield and can be called the most important equipment of this sport. When buying a helmet, you should consider the type of sport (climbing, skiing, cycling, etc.), weight, material and quality of the inner foam and outer shell, having safety standards for maximum head protection and comfort on the head, durability and longevity. It was careful. Also, the ability to adapt the headlamp, protection from sunlight, ventilation and adjustment are the most key features of the mountaineering helmet.

Key features of rock climbing shoes

For each activity and sport, a special shoe is designed, each of which has its own characteristics. Rock climbing shoes are no exception to this and have key features such as comfort, lightness, strength and durability, hard toe, adaptability and sole with high adhesion. Also, when buying climbing shoes, you should consider the correct design, type of climbing program, brand and warranty, resistance of the upper and sole material, and features such as breathability and waterproofing.

Key features of rock climbing clothing

One of the important topics in rock climbing, rock climbing, mountaineering and activities of this kind is related to clothes. When buying rock climbing clothes, one should keep in mind several features, among them, they can be suitable for the season, material, waterproof and breathability, insulation of the middle material of the clothes, comfort, durability and longevity, practicality and protection of the body from the sun. pointed out

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Key features of rock climbing hammer

There are different types of rock climbing hammers, each of which has its own characteristics and capabilities; But in general, it is possible to point out things such as its design and raw materials, having a curved head to pull out the nail, a hole for connecting the nailing tool and the holding rope, resistance and long life, and easy use as the best features of this device.

Key features of rock climbing nails

Rock climbing nails or pins are considered one of the most important climbing equipment, which have different types such as leaf, knife, arrow, corner, bang, universal and micro nails. To buy different types of rock climbing nails, it is better to pay attention to features such as acceptable thickness, resistance to hammer blows and high pressure, reliability of their moving rings, standard neck and hole width of the nail, having fixed holes and holes perpendicular to its blade.

Key features of carabiner types

Carabiners are one of the important rock climbing tools that have different types. Among their key features are the strength and material of the handle, strength in special conditions, longevity and durability, ease of use, shape, size, strength and type of opening.

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The best brands and models of rock climbing tools

Various brands operate in the field of rock climbing equipment and tools, each of which has its own fans based on the type of brand, price, and performance. Below are some of the best brands and models of rock climbing tools:

The best brands and models of climbing harnesses

There are different brands of harnesses in the rock climbing world, among the best and most popular of them are “Petzel”, “Singing Rock”, “Ocun”, “Kratos Safety” and Adela pointed.

The best brands and models of rock climbing helmets

There are many types of rock climbing helmets, some of which are known as the best depending on the manufacturer, outer shell material and unique design. Among the most famous rock climbing helmets are “Marmot”, “Petzel”, “Singing Rock”, “Edelride”, “Black Diamond”, “Camp US”. A” (Camp USA) and “Grivel” (Grivel) pointed out.

The best brands and models of rock climbing shoes

The best brands of rock climbing shoes include famous and important companies such as “La Sportiva”, “Scarpa”, “Five Ten”, “Evolv”, “Black Diamond”. ) and “Millet” (Millet).

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The best brands and models of rock climbing clothing

Most of the travel equipment brands have rock climbing clothing among their products. Some of these brands are “Himalaya”, “Quechua”, “Millet”, “Kailas”, “Snow Hawk”, “Under Armor” and “North”. Face” (The North Face).

The best brands and models of rock climbing hammers

Most of today’s brands in the world have rock climbing hammers among their products; But “Naturehike”, “Salewa”, “Petzel”, “Kailas”, “Black Diamond”, “ICT” and “Symond” Simond) are among the most popular of these tools.

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The best brands and models of carabiners

Many brands are active in the field of climbing carabiners, the best of which include “Petzel”, “Kailas”, “Singing Rock”, “Black Diamond”, “Adelride”. Edelride), “Edelweiss” and “Beal”.

Important points in choosing and using rock climbing tools

Correct and appropriate selection and use of rock climbing tools has a significant impact on their safety, efficiency and longevity. The following are important points in this regard:

Important points in choosing and using a climbing harness

To choose the right harness for rock climbing, it is important to pay attention to things such as the type of climbing and rock climbing, the duration of use, history of activity, weight and height, the size of the belt and leg rings, the presence of chest rings, price, high useful life, quality and design.

Adhering to the tips of using the climbing harness such as precise adjustment during activity, inspection before each use, periodic tension test and repair and replacement in case of any damage, correct installation and use of rings, testing on safe surfaces, basic maintenance and no contact with detergents. Strong and acidic, it will bring you the comfort and safety you need to climb.

Important points in choosing and using a rock climbing helmet

Important points in choosing a rock climbing helmet including fit with different heads, safety, model (hard shell, foam and hybrid), material, adjustability, impact resistance, ventilation, weight, long useful life, price, quality, aerodynamic design, ability Installation of lights, stability on the head and non-slip and purchase are based on the purpose or type of activity.

Following the tips of using a rock climbing helmet, such as personal use, periodic inspection, replacement in case of breakage and damage, correct adjustment on the head, carrying and using it in all activities, especially rock climbing, and studying how to use it optimally and properly, can protect you against Protect possible risks and bring a comfortable and safe activity.

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Important points in choosing and using rock climbing shoes

When choosing rock climbing shoes, factors such as the athlete’s skill level, type of rock climbing, comfort, quality, price, service life, type of material, flexibility, type of sole and shoe (aggressive and semi-aggressive) and design and fit with the user’s feet should be taken into consideration. . Consider paying attention to the tips of using rock climbing shoes such as testing and checking before doing the activity, changing the pads inside the shoes (shoe soles), periodically checking and repairing it if needed, washing with cold water and soap and basic maintenance can provide a safer experience in May your ascensions be with you.

Important points in choosing and using rock climbing clothing

In order to choose rock climbing clothing, one should consider things such as waterproof and windproof, breathability, protection of the body from sunlight, insulation, the ability to repel moisture or absorb sweat from the user’s body, resistance to wear and high service life, suitability for the season, preservation It considered temperature, comfort, quality, fit with the user’s body, price, weight, material and model. It is also necessary to follow the rule of layering to be able to adjust body temperature in case of weather changes. Also, using waterproof and windproof clothes in different weather conditions will protect you to a great extent.

Important points in choosing and using a rock climbing hammer

If you intend to buy a quality and durable rock climbing hammer, you should first consider points such as a handle with an anti-slip coating, material (hammers with steel or titanium heads work best), having features such as a place to store screws, the ability to use it as a walking stick and The hole for connecting the rope, resistance, quality, price, ease of use, safety, long life, type and season of activity, weight and balance were considered; Because these factors can have a great impact on your safety and comfort during your favorite activity.

The tips that can be used for rock climbing hammer effectively and safely include adequate training before climbing, using them in the right and appropriate conditions, not hitting hard objects and surfaces with high resistance, periodic inspection and timely replacement and repair. , using it in safe conditions and placing it in a convenient and accessible place when climbing.

Important points in choosing and using different types of carabiners

The correct choice of carabiner depends on several factors, such as the type of carabiner (locked and unlocked), shape (D or D, oval and suitable for supporting and complex knots), weight, resistance and load bearing capacity, locking mechanism (screw or automatic), alloy material and quality. And durability depends. It also requires prior training to use the carabiner correctly when necessary. Also, before each use, properly evaluate it for any cracks, wear, breaks, or malfunctions. Be sure to dry them completely after each wash; Because otherwise, it affects the useful life, proper and correct operation of the locks. When using locking models, ensure full closure and locking and do not exceed the permitted loading capacity.

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This article examines mountaineering and rock climbing tools. If you also have experience in this field that is not mentioned in this article, please share it with us and other companions in the comments section of this article.

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