| We've all seen rock climbers on television or in the | | | | equipment you own. Make sure you try on your |
| movies. Climbing rocks and cliffs take skill and | | | | helmet prior to purchasing and that it fits |
| endurance. In case you were thinking about taking up | | | | comfortably. |
| rock climbing, a listing of the necessary equipment is | | | | Chalk: Rubbed on your hands, chalk will help you grip |
| outlined below. | | | | rocks. Comes in powdered or ball form. |
| Shoes: You can't wear your everyday hiking boots to | | | | Chalk Bag: Holds chalk and attaches to your harness. |
| climb a rock. Your shoe should be stiff and fit like a | | | | Rope: Rope should be 10 or 11 millimeters in diameter |
| glove. Snug but not too tight. Because comfort is a | | | | and 50 to 60 meters long and should be able to |
| concern, it's best not to mail order shoes for rock | | | | stretch a bit under tension to protect a climber in the |
| climbing, you'll definitely want to try them on first. | | | | event of a fall. |
| Harness: A harness is worn for safety and attaches | | | | Belay Device: This is used to hold a climber's rope. It |
| to a rope so you won't fall off the rock. Your sales | | | | helps the belayer protect the climber. |
| associate will help you find a harness that fits | | | | If you're interested in rock climbing but don't know |
| properly, but you'll want to be sure the harness fits | | | | where to start, be sure to do your research. Not |
| comfortably around your thighs and waist. | | | | only are there plenty of books available, but there |
| Carbiners: These are actually hooks. You'll use these | | | | are articles all over the internet. It's strongly urged |
| to attach different items to your harness. | | | | that you take lessons with an experienced instructor. |
| Helmet: This very important piece of rock climbing | | | | If you're unsure of the proper equipment, your |
| equipment will protect your head from falling debris. It | | | | instructor or experienced sales person can help you |
| will also guard you against bumps and bruises if you | | | | with this. It's better to pay extra money to ensure |
| should happen to bang against a wall. This may in | | | | safety than get seriously injured or worse because |
| fact, be the most important piece of rock climbing | | | | you don't know what you're doing. |