Wherever you climb, the right gear keeps the focus on unrestricted movement. Arc’teryx climbing equipment includes harnesses for comfort and security on the wall, climbing packs to organise layers and essentials for the approach, and chalk bags and buckets to support increased grip for precise sequences.

Finding the right climbing gear

The right climbing gear depends on how and where you climb. A well-fitting climbing harness provides comfort, support and freedom of movement on the wall; experienced climbers may prioritise a minimal, lightweight design, while beginners can benefit from a padded, adjustable style to help build confidence. Approach shoes provide grip and protection on rocky walk-ins. A duffle keeps your rack, layers and essentials organised at the crag, and a streamlined climbing pack suits longer approaches or routes where your kit comes with you on the climb.

Both men’s and women’s climbing equipment is built for repeated use on indoor and outdoor climbs, with light, streamlined designs that keep weight down without sacrificing durability. Weather-resistant materials and water-repellent finishes help protect contents from damp conditions, while rugged construction withstands abrasion ascent after ascent.

Climbing clothing should work with the rest of your kit. Look for stretchy, lightweight, abrasion-resistant fabrics that move easily when reaching, stemming and high stepping. A breathable tee and a pair of softshell trousers or shorts is a versatile starting point, with a technical fleece and shell jacket adding protection as temperatures drop or conditions change.

Frequently asked questions about climbing equipment

What equipment is used for rock climbing?

Essential climbing gear includes a harness, chalk bag, helmet, climbing shoes for the crag, and ideally approach shoes for the walk-in if there’s some tricky terrain involved. Shared tools include a dynamic rope, belay device, carabiners and quickdraws.

How do I choose the right climbing pack?

Choose a climbing bag by matching capacity and features to the objective. For crag wear, look for a streamlined, minimalist exterior that won’t catch on the rock, and attachment options that keep gear stable. If you need to store your entire rack in one place, our gear duffles feature backpack straps and a wide U-shaped opening for easy access. A water-repellent finish is helpful to protect your climbing equipment when the weather shifts or the ground is damp.

Do I need a chalk bag for climbing?

Yes, a chalk bag keeps chalk close at hand for extra grip during moves. It should be easy to access, sit securely while you move and help protect chalk from damp conditions between attempts or during changing weather. Some indoor climbing centres specify the use of liquid chalk or a chalk ball to avoid getting dust everywhere.