What to Wear for Indoor Climbing Wall Sessions

Many first-timers turn up to their indoor climbing session wearing the wrong gear for the activity. By wearing the right clothes you will be a lot more comfortable on the wall.

Footwear and Socks

Climbing shoes are usually hired out at the climbing wall for a small charge. This is best as climbing shoes are specifically designed for climbing and will make a huge difference to your performance. It is also important to wear thin, clean socks as thick hiking socks in climbing shoes can make the shoes feel very sloppy and affect your feel on the holds.

Trousers and Leggings

For your lower half the most important thing is to wear stretchy materials. So, for example, you should wear leggings or joggers rather than rigid jeans. Also, bear in mind that some climbing wall holds have very thin aspects to them and that certain features such as belt loops could potentially snag when you are climbing get snagged and pull you off balance whilst climbing.

Tops and Fit

For your upper body, a close-fitting T-shirt or base layer is best. Baggy T-shirts tend to come up over your head when you’re reaching up high on the wall, and the material can also get caught in the holds as you climb. This can be very annoying and occasionally even unsafe. See also Climbing Wall Oxford.

Layering for Temperature

As you get moving on the wall you’ll soon warm up but be sure to bring a zip up fleece or light hooded top for warming up on arrival and for cooling down after your session. Once on the wall however, change back to a single layer as this will keep you cool and allow for greater mobility.

Hands and Chalk

Most walls will have a big bowl of chalk on the floor that everyone can use to rub on their hands before climbing. Once you start climbing regularly it is worth investing in a small chalk bag for your hands but for your first few sessions it is not necessary.

Jewellery and Accessories

Ring, bracelets and long necklaces are best left at home. They can get caught on holds and rope during climbing and fall off during a sudden slip causing injury to your fingers.

By choosing to wear practical gear, you will be able to concentrate on your climbing rather than your clothing.