| There are several types of rock climbing, trad, sport, | | | | area although there are other types available. |
| aid, and bouldering. There are some commonalities | | | | · Ascenders: This is a mechanical device used |
| but each are unique. Each type requires certain | | | | to ascend a rope. They require less effort, are |
| equipment, or rock climbing gear. | | | | strong and fast. |
| Rock climbing gear encompasses a large list of | | | | · Descenders: Also called Rappel Devices. |
| equipment. From rope, draws, carabiners, harnesses, | | | | These are basically friction brakes which are used for |
| to ascenders, descenders and protection devices. | | | | descending ropes. |
| Below you will find descriptions and uses for some of | | | | · Protection Devices include nuts, hexcentrics, |
| the rock climbing gear that every climber should | | | | spring loaded camming devices and tricams. |
| know about! | | | | More commonly known rock climbing gear includes |
| · Rope, cord and webbing: There are two | | | | shoes, gloves, helmets, resin and chalk. Climbing shoes |
| classes of rope used in climbing, static and dynamic. | | | | are specifically designed foot wear for climbing. They |
| Dynamic rope is used to absorb the energy of falling | | | | increase your grip and are usually thin with a snug fit. |
| climbers, the rope stretches reducing the force. While | | | | There are other types of shoes used for edging and |
| static rope stretch much less and are used as fixed | | | | smearing. |
| rope and anchoring systems. Webbing is often used | | | | There are mixed feelings about gloves, specifically |
| to extend the distance between protection and a | | | | belay gloves as some climbers say that they reduce |
| tie-in point. It can also be used to create a harness | | | | your grip. Other climbers say they are great for |
| to carry equipment. | | | | lowering a climber without getting rope burn. |
| · Draws (or Quickdraws): They are used to | | | | Helmets obviously are to reduce the impact on the |
| attach ropes to bolt anchors or other protection. | | | | skull when falling or from falling debris. There are |
| They allow rope to run through without creating | | | | mixed feelings on helmets as well. Depending upon |
| friction. | | | | the type of climb you are attempting, vanity and |
| · Carabiners: These are metal loops with | | | | reduction in agility, will all affect your choice to wear |
| spring-loaded openings used as connectors. They are | | | | one or not. |
| also known as biners. | | | | Chalk improves your grip and absorbs sweat. Resin is |
| · Harnesses: This is used to attach rope to a | | | | usually used to increase friction between your shoes |
| person. Most harnesses are worn around the pelvic | | | | and the rock as it provides a stickier surface. |