Verticality: climbing and mountaineering
Indoor climbing wall, cliff or ridge route in high mountains: what do you need to climb? This page brings together everything you need for climbing, from shoes and crampons to climbing gear, as well as ropes and clothing for climbing or mountaineering.
Climbing or mountaineering, two ways to gain altitude
Climbing is done indoors, on boulders or cliffs, using climbing shoes, a harness and a rope. Mountaineering combines walking, snow, ice and rock in high mountains, with stiff shoes, crampons and warm clothing. Many climbers switch between the two, and some gear is used for both.
Climbing gear classified by use
Your feet are fitted in shoes, which include climbing shoes and crampons. Harnesses, carabiners, helmets, chalk and crash pads are in climbing gear, while ropes, slings and tapes are found in ropes. For clothing, check out clothing.
Start indoors before heading to the cliffs
The gym is the best place to learn: the routes are equipped, the rope is often provided, and an instructor can get you started. Begin with a pair of climbing shoes and a chalk bag, then add a harness. To move to outdoor climbing, you’ll need a rope, carabiners and a helmet, and most importantly, know how to belay.
Brands of verticality
La Sportiva outfits climbers, from climbing shoes to down jackets. Ocun offers shoes, harnesses and climbing clothes. Rab and Patagonia dress the mountaineer, Dynafit provides jackets and trousers for the mountains, and Rafiki offers t-shirts and trousers for climbing.
Climb without breaking the bank
Discounts on climbing gear and clothing are gathered on climbing sales. For mountain hiking clothes, check out hiking clearance, and new arrivals for the latest stock.
Safety and training above all
Equipment doesn’t replace learning. Before climbing lead or heading into the mountains, learn to tie your knot, to belay your partner and to check their setup, then ask them to check yours. Clubs and climbing schools offer supervised introductory sessions. In mountaineering, a trip should be planned with attention to the weather, snow conditions, and a return schedule. Keep an eye on the wear of your ropes, slings and harness, and replace any gear that has had a heavy fall or is fraying. Finally, store textiles away from sunlight and chemicals, which can weaken the fibres.
Frequently asked questions
What gear should I buy to start climbing indoors?
Climbing shoes and a chalk bag, then a harness. Climbing shoes can be found in shoes.
Which rope to choose for outdoor climbing?
A single rope, long enough for the routes at your chosen site. The models are listed in ropes.
Do I need a helmet for outdoor climbing?
Yes, it protects against falling rocks and impacts against the wall. It is part of climbing gear.
How should I dress for mountaineering?
In layers: a breathable top, a warm layer and a waterproof jacket, with durable trousers. Everything is in clothing.
Where can I find cheap climbing gear?
Shoes, harnesses and discounted clothing are gathered on climbing sales.
