The Beginner's Guide to Essential Climbing Gear
So you've fallen in love with climbing (welcome to the club!) and you're ready to start collecting your own gear — but where do you begin?
Whether you're bouldering indoors or dreaming of outdoor rope climbs, here's a simple breakdown of the gear you'll need as a beginner. We're keeping it real, practical, and budget-friendly — with a few personal tips from us too.
👟 1. Climbing Shoes
Good shoes = better footwork = easier climbs. Beginner shoes should prioritize comfort over performance (Different for everyone, but this is the general assumption).
Look for:
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Neutral or moderate shape (not too aggressive)
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Snug but not painful fit
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Sturdy rubber soles
We recommend trying them on if you can — fit really matters!
🦄 2. Chalk & Chalk Bag
Sweaty hands? You're not alone. Chalk helps reduce moisture so you can grip the holds with confidence.
Pro tip: Clip your chalk bag to your harness or a belt loop.
🔗 3. Harness
Your harness is your lifeline — quite literally. It's what keeps you tied into the rope, safely supporting you in case of a fall. When you're just starting out, look for an all-round harness:
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Comfortable padding
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Adjustable leg loops
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Easy to wear and take off
These features will suit you for both indoor climbing and outdoor sessions as you grow.
🪖 4. Helmet (for Outdoor Climbing)
Outdoors? You’ll want to protect your head. Helmets shield you from falling rocks and accidental bumps.
Look for:
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Lightweight and well-ventilated designs
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Adjustable straps for a secure fit
I always recommend using a helmet — sometimes it can be the one thing that saves your life in a really bad situation. I went through multiple helmets in my early days before finding one that truly fit — I now swear by the Penta helmet for its comfort and lightweight feel.
And remember: don't choose a helmet just because of how it looks. Safety and fit are way more important.
🧵 5. Climbing Rope
If you’re heading outdoors or into lead climbing, you’ll need a dynamic rope. These are designed to absorb the energy of a fall. Make sure to get:
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A UIAA or CE certified rope
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Diameter around 9.5–10.2mm for versatility
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A dry-treated rope if you'll climb outside often
For now, you may not need to buy one right away — many climbing gyms or partners will have one.
⚖️ 6. Belay Device + Locking Carabiner
If you’re rope climbing, you’ll need a belay device and a locking carabiner to control the rope. These help you belay a partner and lower them safely.
Great beginner choices are simple-to-use devices like a tube-style or assisted-braking belay device. Don’t forget a personal safety or anchor if you're heading outdoors — it'll help with cleaning routes and setting up anchors.
💬 A Note from Sophie
"I always recommend doing thorough research if you choose to go outdoor climbing without a knowledgeable person with you. Climbing can be a really dangerous sport if it's not taken seriously. I also went through multiple harnesses I never enjoyed wearing until I found one that fit me right — don’t be afraid to ask questions before you buy."
🧗♀️ 6. Indoor Climbing Basics
Most people start with indoor climbing — it’s a great intro with lower risk and lower costs. For bouldering indoors, you only need:
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Good shoes
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Chalk (optional but helpful)
As you progress to rope climbing, you’ll add a harness, belay device, and carabiners to your kit.
✅ Bonus Tip: Don’t Buy Everything At Once
Starting out? You don’t need to own the whole gear shop. Rent or borrow when you can and gradually build your kit. We suggest starting with shoes, a harness, and chalk — then add more as your climbing progresses.
🛍️ Need Help Picking Your First Setup?
We’ve got your back (and your belay). The Happy Biner team is made up of real climbers, and we’re always happy to help you figure out what you need.
Come visit us in-store or browse our beginner gear collection here.
Feel free to reach out to Mitch and Sophie directly — we’re always happy to chat via email or phone!
See you on the wall!
- Mitch & Sophie
Co-founders of Happy Biner