Getting your first set of climbing gear together is one of the more satisfying purchases you’ll make as a new climber. For around $125, you can cover what you actually need to get on the wall safely. The trick is knowing what counts and what can wait.
Here’s a breakdown of what a solid beginner kit looks like, plus the gear worth picking up as you get more comfortable.
What your $125 starter kit should cover
3 things. That’s really all you need for your first sessions:
- A harness
- Climbing shoes
- A belay device and locking carabiner
On the harness: buy new if you can. Used harnesses work fine, but check the manufacture date stamped on the label inside. Most harnesses have a 7-year lifespan from the date of manufacture, not the date of purchase. Sun exposure can shorten that further. When you put it on, thread the tail strap back through the keeper loop so it stays snug. And take a second to make sure your leg loops aren’t twisted before you clip in.
On shoes: used is totally fine for a beginner. You’re learning footwork and foot placement, not trying to send hard sport routes. Look for a snug fit with no dead space at the toe. If they’re used, check that the rubber hasn’t worn through to the rand.
On the belay device: learning on a manual ATC is worth it. It keeps you active and engaged while belaying, and that habit stays with you. Many experienced climbers will tell you that ATC-trained belayers are generally more attentive than those who went straight to a GriGri.
What to add next
Once you’re getting comfortable and want to climb more seriously, a few additions make a real difference.
An assisted braking device (ABD)
This is the upgrade most experienced climbers recommend first. An ABD holds the rope automatically if something unexpected happens on the belayer’s end, such as a sudden distraction, shock, or loss of grip.
The Petzl GriGri runs around $90 new and is the most widely known option. Many gyms are familiar with it, which matters when you’re learning. If the price is a barrier right now, the Edelrid Mega Jul is a solid choice at around $30 to $40 and works with a wide range of rope diameters.
One thing worth knowing if you’re on the lighter side: weight differences between belayer and climber can matter with a manual device. A heavier climber can pull the rope through your hands on a top rope setup faster than you’d expect. An ABD removes that variable.
A chalk bag
Most gyms allow chalk. A chalk bag clips to the back of your harness and gives you quick access on sweaty holds. You can find decent options at Geartrade for well under $20. Check the chalk bags section for used ones.
Belay glasses
These look ridiculous. You’ll get looks. After one session on tall gym walls, you won’t care.
Belay glasses have prisms built in that let you see straight up while your head stays level. If your gym has walls over 40 feet, your neck will be grateful by the end of a session. Clip-on versions are available for people who wear prescription glasses. One tip: take your cap off before putting them on.
Gear for when you start climbing outside
The gym is a great place to build skills, but if outdoor climbing is on your radar, you’ll want to add a few things before heading to the crag:
- A climbing helmet: Get one made specifically for climbing. Popular options include the Black Diamond Vision and the Petzl Meteor. Foam helmets are lighter and more comfortable than old-school hard shell models, but they need more careful handling since foam dents and cracks more easily than hard plastic. Check used helmets for any visible dents or cracks before buying.
- A PAS or sling with locking carabiner: You’ll need this for cleaning routes and going in direct at the anchor. Not relevant for gym climbing, but it matters outdoors.
- A rope: You don’t need one for the gym. When you eventually start leading outside, a climbing rope becomes necessary. If you have a regular partner, split the cost since you only need one between 2 people. Browse single ropes on Geartrade for used options at good prices.
Tips for keeping costs down
- REI membership coupons (usually 20% off one item) are worth waiting for on bigger purchases.
- Geartrade and Sierra Trading Post regularly have belay devices and helmets at a significant discount.
- Ask climbers at your gym if they have extra gear you can try before committing to a purchase.
- If you’re buying a used harness, look for any webbing that’s faded, stiff, or frayed. Any of those are reasons to skip it.
FAQ
How do I know if a used harness is still safe to use?
Check the manufacture date on the label sewn into the harness (usually inside the waistbelt). Any harness over 7 years old should be retired. Look at the webbing for fading, stiffness, or fraying. Harnesses stored in sunlight or heat age faster than their date suggests.
Do I need a GriGri specifically, or will any ABD work?
Any reliable assisted braking device works. The GriGri gets recommended most often because it’s been around since 1991 and most gym staff and belayers already know how to use it. The Edelrid Mega Jul, Mammut Smart, and CT Click Up are all solid options at a lower price point.
What rope diameter and length should I buy for a first rope?
For gym or single-pitch outdoor climbing, a 9.8mm to 10.2mm rope in 60 to 70 meters covers most situations. Thinner ropes are lighter but wear faster with heavy use. A 9.9mm or 10mm option in 60m is a practical starting point.
What size climbing shoes should I get as a beginner?
A flat or mildly asymmetric shoe in close to your street shoe size is the right call. Aggressive downturned shoes are made for hard bouldering, and they’re painful to learn in. You want snug, not painful.
Is it better to learn to belay on an ATC or start with a GriGri?
Most experienced climbers recommend learning on an ATC first. It builds active, attentive belaying habits. Once you understand what good belaying feels like, picking up a GriGri takes very little adjustment.
Are belay glasses worth it for a beginner?
If your gym has tall walls, yes. They reduce neck strain significantly. You don’t need them on your first day, but they’re worth considering once you’re belaying regularly.
What’s a triple-action carabiner (safebiner) and do I need one?
A triple-action carabiner requires 3 distinct actions to open instead of the standard 2. Some gyms and climbing partners prefer them at the belay point because accidental opening is less likely. They’re worth having at least 1 in your kit.