When you’re ready to make the leap from gym climbing to outdoor sport climbing, the gear list is surprisingly simple. Sport climbing, especially single-pitch routes, requires less gear compared to other climbing disciplines, making it an accessible next step for climbers. Here’s everything you need to get started, along with some bonus recommendations to enhance your experience.
Victoria sport climbing in Wild Iris. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Essential Gear for Sport Rock Climbing
1. Climbing Shoes
Invest in a pair of climbing shoes. If you’re climbing primarily on outdoor sport routes, look for a slightly downturned shoe that balances performance with edging. Most sport climbing is technical with small holds. Trad shoes work, but are not the best.
A few of our favorites:
2. Harness
A well-fitted harness is critical. Choose one with adjustable leg loops and gear loops to hold your quickdraws and other essentials.
A few of our favorites:
3. Belay Device
A reliable belay device is a must. Assisted-braking devices, such as the Petzl GriGri or Black Diamond ATC Pilot, are popular for sport climbing as they add an extra layer of security.
A few of our favorites:
4. Chalk Bag and Chalk
Sweaty hands can make climbing outdoors tricky. A chalk bag with loose chalk or chalk balls will keep your grip secure. For an added benefit find some chalk with lavender in it to calm yourself down when doing some runout climbing.
A few of our favorites:
5. Rope
A dynamic rope, typically 60 or 70 meters, is perfect for most sport routes. Check the route length before heading out to ensure your rope is long enough for both climbing and rappelling. Some places, like Red River Gorge and Owen’s River Gorge might require longer ropes.
A few of our favorites:
6. Helmet (Optional but Highly Recommended)
Falling rocks and unexpected impacts can happen outdoors. While some climbers skip helmets for sport climbing, it’s a good habit to wear one for added safety. I try to play this off here, but please wear one.
A few of our favorites:
7. Quickdraws
Bring 10–12 quickdraws for clipping into bolts. The number depends on the length of the routes you’ll be climbing. Look for lightweight yet durable options, I prefer the ones with large carabiners. Sure, they are heavier, but they are easier to clip.
A few of our favorites:
8. Locking Carabiners and Cordelette for the Anchor
You’ll need a few locking carabiners to secure yourself at the anchor and set up a safe rappel or belay. A cordelette or long sling helps create a secure and equalized anchor.
A few of our favorites:
Jack clipping the first bolt on a sport climbing project. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Bonus Gear for a Better Experience
1. Belay Weight Equalizer (OhM Device)
If you and your partner have a large weight difference, a device like the Edelrid Ohm with an assisted-braking system can make belaying smoother and safer.
2. Stick Clip
If the first bolt is high off the ground or in a tricky spot, a stick clip can help you pre-clip it to avoid sketchy ground falls.
3. Guidebook or Climbing App
A guidebook for the area you’re climbing provides crucial beta, including route details, difficulty, and safety notes. Alternatively, apps like Mountain Project or Vertical Life can help you navigate sport climbing areas.
4. Ground Sheet
Keeping your rope clean is always preferred and prolongs the life of your rope. A simple fix for that is to use a ground sheet to put your rope. This doesn’t have to be a “climbing specific” ground sheet. A tarp works well. A blanket works, but is heavy. You can get creative!
5. Crag Backpack
I am going to sound like a total hypocrite here, but I have fallen in love with a crag climbing pack from Arc’teryx (skip to 2:00 in the video above). The bag makes life very easy to transport all of the gear required to go climbing. You don’t need a fancy bag, however. I used a backpacking backpack for years before upgrading to this pack I have now.
Adrian on a Pine Creek classic. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why You Don’t Need Much
After bouldering, single-pitch sport climbing is one of the most gear-efficient climbing styles. A simple setup of shoes, harness, belay device, rope, quickdraws, and a few carabiners gets you started. Over time, you can add convenience items like a stick clip or specific gear for unique climbing areas, but the initial investment is straightforward.
Safety First
While the helmet might feel optional, wearing one adds an extra layer of protection from falling debris and unexpected impacts. Always inspect your gear regularly for wear and tear, and learn how to build safe anchors before climbing outside.
With this gear list, you’re ready to start exploring the world of outdoor sport climbing. Keep it simple, stay safe, and enjoy the incredible feeling of clipping your way up the rock!
