Climbing is a sport that is adventurous and exciting but also involves a certain level of risk. These risks can be reduced if the right gear is used. Climbing gear is very unique, right from the kind of shoes and gloves we wear. This equipment makes a lot of difference, and this difference can mean life or death. The level of safety thus depends directly on the equipment we use. Previously, people just used regular tennis shoes, a normal rope and a regular belt for climbing. But these days, there is fashionable gear that makes climbing not only fun, but also safe. Regular climbing gear includes: shoes/mountaineering boots, gloves, harnesses, ropes, racks, belay devices, locking carabiners, helmets, axes, headlamp, sunglasses, first aid kit, camming devices, sewn runners, climbing belays, climbing harnesses, climbing screws, pulleys, pitons, holds, books/maps, special pants, and even underwear for rough weather. Other personal items may comprise: food and water, sun block, extra clothing, camera, tent, cookware, camp stove, sleeping bag/pad, a knife, approach shoes and a chalk bag. Climbing gear has to be carefully carried since it has to stay with you until you reach the top. You can clip some of the things to your harness, thus keeping the upper part of the body relatively lightweight. However, you may not be able to carry too many things like this, and there is also the chance of losing some things on the way. Most climbers use special backpacks that are designed to hold most of the essential things. There are many providers of climbing equipment. Some of the most popular brands are: Black Diamond, Volcom, Nixon, Oakley, Smith, Spy, The North Face, Nikita, Eagle Creek, Dakine, Mountain Hardwear and others. Climbing equipment has to be certified by the International Federation of Mountaineering Associations (UIAA) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Before buying the equipment, test for the right size, as comfort is very important. There are many manufacturers of climbing gear today. Check for their products by testing them. Companies are making very durable, strong, yet lightweight products for climbing. |
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