From developing new calluses to breaking into new grades, learning to climb is an exciting journey. Like starting any new sport, however, it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right gear. For someone getting into the sport, the right women’s rock climbing clothes aren’t just about comfort—they can directly impact climbing ability, safety, and confidence. Between all the different options, climbing disciplines, and environments, it can be hard to know what’s most important when you’re just getting started.

For decades, Arc’teryx has designed gear for every climbing style that’s built to support freedom of movement and tested by real athletes. Here, we’ll break down the essential gear for new climbers to help you understand what to prioritize and why. Whether you’re bouldering outside or top roping in the gym, we can all benefit from going back to the basics, and we want to provide a strong, durable foundation you can build on.

Movement, protection, and breathability are important for all outdoor gear, but especially for climbing. From high steps to reachy moves, good climbing clothing must adjust with you, never restricting your fullest range of motion. If clothing is too tight, it might prevent you from making your next advance on the wall. If it’s too loose or too baggy, it can get snagged on the rock and hold you back, tear, or worse, impact your climbing safety.

The best rock climbing clothes also offer durable protection from the sun, wind, and other weather, as well as protection from abrasions or intense wear. And while durability is critically important, so is breathability. Sure, you can chalk up, but the best climbers know the importance of body temperature regulation.

Since our inception in 1989, Arc’teryx has designed gear for alpine environments. With climb-specific articulation, adjustable fits, and thoughtful harness-compatible designs, Arc’teryx climbing clothes allow you to move freely on and off the rock. We know the best climbing clothing is made for climbers by climbers.

As a novice climber, you’ve probably already been told to “trust your feet”. But what does that mean? When you’re newly climbing outside, how can you trust your feet not to slip off steep, rocky terrain? That’s where approach shoes and climbing shoes come in.

Why approach shoes are a must-have for new climbers

A good pair of approach shoes can make all the difference in your comfort and stability during your first outdoor climbing adventure. Approach shoes are hybrid footwear built to bridge the gap between hiking boots and climbing shoes. Designed with supportive soles and sticky rubber, they’re ideal for hiking to the crag, scrambling over rocky terrain, and offering grip on technical approaches where traditional sneakers might slip.

Even if you're just starting, a quality pair of approach shoes is a smart investment—you'll appreciate the security and confidence they provide well before you ever rope up. Key features to look for include sticky rubber soles for maximum traction on rock, reinforced toe protection, and durable uppers that can withstand abrasion. A supportive, snug fit is also crucial to keep your footing steady across uneven ground, talus fields, and exposed ridgelines. Unlike hiking shoes, approach shoes prioritize precision and climbing performance alongside hiking comfort, so you want a tighter fit than your hiking boots or trail runners.

Designed for technical approaches from trail to rock and back again, the Konseal Shoe is our favourite approach shoe that wants to break into new grades with you. A sturdy and supportive approach shoe, the Konseal delivers sticky traction and durable protection all in one, making it the perfect shoe for new climbers looking to move confidently over unfamiliar, rocky terrain. For quick approaches where you still need that extra grip, try the slip-on Kragg Shoe for ease, comfort, and security.

When to consider climbing shoes

How do you know when it’s time to lace up your climbing shoes instead of your approach shoes? With a snug fit, a climbing shoe is your best bet for any sort of technical climbing on tiny edges or sticky slabs. Whether you’re climbing indoors or outdoors, climbing shoes are built for vertical, technical terrain. While approach shoes can get you through some third-class and even fourth-class scrambles, climbing shoes provide the precision needed to trust your feet.

However, aggressive, angled climbing shoes are often uncomfortable for long periods or walking on flat ground. Advanced sport climbers and boulderers often seek out especially aggressive shoes with a downturned toe for the best stability on overhanging terrain. Approach shoes, on the other hand, have the same sticky climbing rubber in a more neutral shape, making them more comfortable for approaches on shifting terrain.

Beyond the right layers and footwear, here are a few other features to consider and some of our climbing must-haves.

Why pockets, belts & harness compatibility matter

When choosing climbing apparel, pockets, belts, and harness compatibility are crucial details that impact comfort and functionality. Zippered pockets are key for security, but they also need to stay accessible while wearing a harness. Low-profile belts or integrated waistbands are key for avoiding pressure points and uncomfortable bulk under a climbing harness, too.

This is why clothing with climbing-specific cuts is important. Features like articulated knees, gusseted crotches, and slightly longer jacket hems ensure both a full range of motion and proper overlap with harness loops. This freedom of movement is not only important for comfort, but also for safety.

Arc’teryx designs our women’s climbing clothing with a focus on durability, mobility, and multi-sport functionality. What’s more, every piece is developed through real-use testing with professional athletes and alpine climbing guides, ensuring it performs under the toughest real-world conditions. The result? Gear that feels intuitive, reliable, and ready for any outdoor adventure.

Collections like the Kragg offer rugged versatility for rock and alpine pursuits, while the Konseal line blends lightweight comfort with technical precision. Whether you're cragging with your friends or scrambling in the alpine, Arc’teryx delivers performance-driven design built specifically for women who love the mountains. Check out our women’s rock climbing collection and climb on.