Ok, so there are actually 2 things rockclimbers need… whether or not you boulder, top rope, or lead climb, rock climbers all need these 2 items at a minimum…
The 2 Rockclimbing Essentials
1. Rock climbing shoes
2. Chalk bag with rock climbing chalk
I have found that many of my hiking friends also enjoy rockclimbing (as well as many other outdoors sports). Seems like we just don’t want to stay inside. I’ll keep this short so I can get off my computer and spend some time in nature…
Item #1: Rock climbing shoes are the obvious one. I personally use the 5.10 Women’s Gambit. I love them and they are comfortable (as comfortable as rock climbing shoes can be!).
Item #2: The second item is a chalk bag. When I first started climbing, I bought my shoes, but no chalk bag. I just mooched off my friends. Then I realized that my sweaty palms would stand to benefit from having climbing chalk of my own, and a convenient well designed back to store it in.
Check out my review of my new prAna chalk bag, and learn why I like it so much!
For the Hiking Lady readers that also like to climb, what is your favorite chalk bag?
Hi Mary,
That’s great you’re getting into rock climbing! There are definitely lots of ways to get involved.
I know that my local Sierra Club chapter has very low cost clinics, and once you know the basics there are outings to go on. Here’s more about the Sierra Club.
There are meetup groups all over North America (and the world!), and you can definitely meet other climbers that way.
Have fun climbing!
I am just getting into rock climbing and would like to know more about it and find groups of people to do it with, can you be any assistance on helping me get started?
Much thanks,
Mary Hurt