How to Choose Indoor Rock Climbing Gear for Women

Climbing is a fun and challenging sport for both genders. Gear is essential for the sport. Indoor rock climbing requires specific kinds of gear and there is no denying that women and men have different physiques. Many indoor rock climbing gyms offer unisex rental equipment. If you are a female and are becoming a consistent indoor rock climber, you may want to invest in your having your own equipment that is specifically built for your form. You have the option to purchase climbing shoes and a harness specifically built with a woman in mind.

Things You'll Need

• Rock climbing shoes
• Harness
• Carabiner
• Chalk bag
• Climbing chalk

Instructions

Instructions

1. 

   Choose rock shoes. Stiff rubber holds up well during indoor climbing. There are various types of women's shoes that you can choose for climbing: slip-on, velcro or lace-up shoes. Shoes should be snug in order to allow you to have precise footwork. Get shoes that are a size or two smaller than you usually buy. Though painful at first, a few visits to the gym will break them in.

2. 

   Choose a harness. Women's harness models take into account that females have different physical structures than males. Women tend to have proportionally smaller waists and larger thighs. The distance between leg loops and the waist belt—the rise—tends to be longer in women's harnesses than men's or unisex harnesses. However, there are exceptions to the rule and some women are not built best for women's harnesses. Try all harnesses before you make your decision. Look for a good fit in the waist and leg loops. When trying on a harness, wear your climbing clothes and make sure that the fit is snug and comfortable. Padded leg loops are essential if you are wearing thin clothing or have direct contact with your skin. You also have the option of the seat-belt material with little or no padding, but this may only be comfortable if you are wearing thick clothing.

3. 

   Choose a carabiner, a lightweight metal snap-link used for a variety of tasks. They are tools that connect things together and are known to be strong because they have to withstand extreme force and weight. When climbing indoors, a carabiner is an essential tool for the role of belaying and attach to your harness' belay loop. Large carabiners are easiest to deal with. Carabiners that lock are an essential safety measure for belaying. If you are starting out, ask an experienced salesperson or instructor for advice on which style to begin with.

4. 

   Choose a chalk bag. There are various sizes to choose from when selecting a chalk bag. Smaller size bags are appropriate for gym climbing, bouldering and people who have small hands. Size and shape are a personal preference.

5. 

   Choose chalk. Chalk keeps hands dry and helps with your grip. You can choose from block chalk, loose chalk or chalk balls. Chalk balls are the most appropriate for an indoor climber. However, in the end you should choose based on personal preference.

6. Choose climbing clothing. Choose clothing that is loose and comfortable.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek expert advice. When in doubt, always ask an expert opinion. Safety first

• Check for damages. When purchasing equipment, be sure to inspect your gear

Resources

• REI: Climbing Advice
• Harnesses for Climbing