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Climbing Gear

Climbing can be a very expensive hobby simply because of all the gear it requires. But aside from rope, athletic shoes, and harness what do you need to go climbing. One very popular item of climbing gear is a chalk bag. This little pouch or bag typically attaches around the waist and allows the climber to chalk their hands as they ascend the route. The chalk keeps the hands dry and gives a little extra friction to help hold onto the rock.

A surprising piece of climbing gear that typically counters the effects of the chalk bag is a common toothbrush. The toothbrush can be used or brand new, it really doesn’t matter. Its function is to clean out holds. You see, if a route is used frequently enough, chalk will begin to cake into the hand holds rendering them less useful and it is also unsightly. It is sometimes necessary to clean these out to maximize the grip on a given hold.

An obvious piece of climbing gear is the helmet of course.  The helmet is not only to help protect you should you fall but to protect you from falling rock. It’s not uncommon for rocks to fall for a variety of reasons and if you find rocks falling while you’re half-way up a route you’ll be very happy to protect your head. Believe me, it’s a scary experience.

 

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