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Rock On: Your guide to climbing in NC |
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Written by Zach Jacobson
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Wednesday, 14 June 2006 |
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Page 4 of 7
GEAR TO GO
what you need to get climbing
Novice rock climbers will need to invest in a few essentials to get up the mountain. If you choose to go bouldering, the equipment list is shorter, since ropes and harnesses aren’t necessary. However, a few crash pads would be a wise investment:
 1. Shoes. $70-$150
Fit is the most important consideration, and the only way to find that perfect fit is to try on different models. Buy the smallest shoe you can comfortably wear for long periods of time.
 2. Rope. $120-$200+
Various rope systems are available, but for the majority of climbing needs, a single rope, 10 or 11 mm in diameter and 50 to 60 meters long, will do. Make sure you buy a true climbing rope, not a static rope intended only for rappelling.
 3. Harness. $40-$95
An inexpensive harness is fine for most climbing. More money will add neat features but does not increase safety. Spend more for a harness that is easy to get into. It should be comfortable but able to be tightened until it is snug.
 4. Belay device. $15-$80
A belay device acts as a brake on the climbing rope by applying friction to it. The device, plus the belayer’s “braking hand” stop the climber’s fall. There are many different models available, depending on your preferences.
 5. Carabiners. $8-$20 each
These metal links attach ropes to harnesses and webbing. They come in two major styles —
locking and nonlocking. Both are strong enough for general use, so don’t worry about strength ratings unless you really enjoy engineering trivia or are doing some specialized climbing.
An introductory climbing set should include four locking ($15 to $20 each) and four nonlocking ($8 to $12 each) carabiners.
 6. Crash pad. $120-$285
The landing gear for bouldering freaks, the crash pad is essential cushioning for climbing on smaller rocks without ropes or other gear. Look for good thickness and material that resists rips.
 7. Helmet. $44-$160
No matter how much you climb, the rocks will still be harder than your head when you crack into them. A helmet may save you a few concussions or a decent frontal lobe injury. Wouldn’t that pay for itself? Look for ventilation and a comfortable fit.
photos courtesy of www.rei.comgear compiled by Zach Jacobson, with detailed information from ehow.com
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