OK You finally made it. You have overcome the initial anxiety of becoming a climber and can now climb basic boulder problems and easy routes 10-15 ft in height. What’s next?? It’s time to tag along with a more advanced practitioner. Here is a picture of my mentor. He preferred climbing with no headgear and minimal rope use but I highly recommend the use of both.
If you are ready to take the leap be prepared to take a fall.
In addition to the “Basic” gear the following would be recommended for “Intermediate Climbers”.
Helmet – Protect that melon of yours. It should be lightweight and breathable.
Harness – this is what you will be tied into from the rope. It need to be comfortable and should contain additional loops to attach the gear to that is removed as you progress up a climb.
2 Locking-D carabineers – these are used to assist in belay and rappelling
Belay Ring – This is used in conjunction with the locking-D carabineers to help control the rate of decent when rappelling or to control the risk on the climber on the other end of the rope (your partner) in case they fall.
Extra tube webbing – 1 inch wide x 3-6 feet in length. This is used to help adjust the fit of the harness and to enable tie in at belay stations.
A Gear puller – this is used to help in the removal of gear. Most likely you will follow the lead climber. this will help you study the placement of gear as you go up. It is also your responsibility to remove the gear and bring it up with you. Placements can be deep in thin cracks so this devise is used to help maneuver the equipment so it can be removed.
Learn to tie a few critical knots – My favorite is the figure 8 knot. It can be tied at the end of a rope or in the middle and can be untied even after breaking a fall. solid support in many circumstances.
See our resources section for gear retailers.