To go rock climbing you will need some basic equipment and you will have to find either a rock climbing school or a rock climbing teacher, as this is not something that you can just go out and start on your own without any lessons. Only the fool hardy would attempt rock climbing with no prior lessons or knowledge.
You will need some foot wear, you don't have to run out and get specialist rock climbing boots, they can be bought later once you are sure this is the sport for you. You can start with walking boots, lightweight hill walking boots are good enough for the easier rock climbs you will be doing. Trainers are also acceptable but you will have to remember they will not be too good on muddy paths. If you decide on rock boots you will have to remember that they are worn very tight, so are not the most comfortable shoes in the world, you are best breaking them in slowly, and taking a spare pair of walking boots or trainers to change into would be advisable.
You will also need some rock climbing clothing. On warm days climbers will wear running vests and climbing tights, but you will be alright wearing a T-shirt and stretchy tracksuit bottoms. On colder days a warm tracksuit with a fleece jacket will be suitable. You do need to take extra clothing which is warm and wind proof, also you will need a set of waterproofs. All these things can be bought quite inexpensively at any outward bound, walking or camping shop. You will also need a pair of gloves to stop rope burns for when you are Belaying, but don't wear them for climbing.
It is also worth taking a proper rucksack, so you can carry spare clothing, drinks you will need on the climb and any food you wish to take with you. You should also have a small first aid kit just in case of any small accidents.
Other equipment you will need but maybe able to either rent or borrow, is a harness which is essential for safety, especially good if you are attempting harder climbs. You will also need a helmet, which is essential to protect your head from falling rocks or blows from the rock face when climbing. Helmets come in two types. You can get a standard helmet or the lightweight helmet the choice is up to you.
You will also need ropes, tape slings, karabiners, descendeurs, delay devices, chocks, wires and all sorts of other tools to help you climb but you will learn all about these at your rock climbing lessons or school.
I hope this insight into what you will need if you decide to take up rock climbing has been helpful and informative. If you would like to try rock climbing I would recommend going along to your local rock climbing school or club and giving it a try.
