| Compared with many other sports, mountaineering | | | | bits of gear can safely be bought second hand. |
| does not require huge spending on gear and | | | | Clothing and jackets can often be found at a |
| equipment. When it comes to scuba diving, for | | | | reasonable price when bought used. Also look for |
| instance, you are no-where without an aqualung, | | | | army surplus gear. It may not be the coolest-looking |
| weight belt, buoyancy compensator, air tank and | | | | or the latest fashion but it will often be perfectly |
| mask. Yet for basic hill walking you can get away | | | | good and functional. |
| with little more than a good pair of shoes or boots | | | | There are, however, some items of gear that you |
| and a decent outer layer to protect you from the | | | | do not want to buy second hand unless you are |
| weather. | | | | really expert or know exactly what their history is |
| Obviously as you start to undertake more demanding | | | | and you are buying them from someone you trust. |
| expeditions or climbs you have to start spending a bit | | | | By this I mean things such as climbing ropes and |
| more. But because this is a sport in which you carry | | | | harnesses. It is difficult when examining them to |
| everything you use, less if often better than more. | | | | know what damage they may have incurred. A big |
| Now it is quite easy to end up spending a small | | | | fall on a rope or harness can weaken it internally |
| fortune on gear, especially since the stores are so full | | | | while leaving few visible signs on the surface. Yet it |
| of enticing offerings. But if you have a modest | | | | may fail at a crucial moment. Just remember that |
| budget you can still get out quite easily. The | | | | these are the items that you are trusting with your |
| important thing is to focus on the quality of your | | | | life. Consider buying an investment in your own |
| gear, not the quantity, and get equipment that can | | | | safety and in the many years of enjoyment you |
| serve many purposes. The first thing to think about | | | | hope to have. |
| is whether to buy new or second hand. Quite a few | | | | |