Wool High-Waist Women’s Pant by Kari Traa

One of the first things you should do in selecting a new climbing area is determine your preferred style of climbing. The local climbing culture of a given area also has a significant influence on the styles of climbing available. For example, some areas have a longstanding history of trad climbing and discourage the establishment of bolted sport routes.

Climbing Guidebooks continue to be a primary source of information on established climbing areas; most areas have at least one published booklet. Climbing magazines often highlight popular climbing areas and provide abbreviated information drawn from the primary guidebooks. The purchase of a climbing guidebook is well worth the price when considering the wealth of information at your disposal, including driving directions, access information, and maps of the rocks.

Some nonessential but helpful rock-climbing gear includes chalk and a chalk bag, a bag to transport all your gear, and a rope bag to store your climbing rope and protect it from ground debris while climbing. If you will be traditional climbing, you should bring a device (often referred to as a nut tool) for dislodging stuck protection gear from the rock.

Some people prefer to wear leather gloves while belaying and rappelling; if you choose to wear gloves, make sure they don’t interfere with your ability to grip and handle the rope.

1. Navigation. Climbers should be able to reach their destination and return safely. Mistakes in route finding are often a climber’s first steps toward putting themselves in dangerous situations. You should carry and know how to read topographical maps. Knowing how to use a compass and GPS unit is also helpful.

2. Sun protection. Sunburn and sunstroke are common ailments for rock climbers who do not use sun protection. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen (minimum of SPF 15) are small items that should always be included in your climbing pack. When possible, you should coordinate your climbing to take advantage of the shade provided by rock walls.

3. Insulation. Besides the clothing you would use for a normal rock-climbing outing, you should have insulating layers that would enable you to survive an unplanned night out. This is especially important for remote climbs.

---

BMX Bikes