BOULDERING
Bouldering, also known as Free Climbing, is obviously the least expensive form of rock climbing because you only need the most basic gear to participate. With no ropes or form of protection, Bouldering is the easiest on your checkbook, but possibly the hardest on your health if you don't have the right gear.
Bouldering, also known as Free Climbing, is obviously the least expensive form of rock climbing because you only need the most basic gear to participate. With no ropes or form of protection, Bouldering is the easiest on your checkbook, but possibly the hardest on your health if you don't have the right gear.
The List:
To successfully Boulder, you need only a few things
1. Climbing Shoes
When bouldering, you need to wear rock climbing shoes that are fitted correctly because your feet are two of your only four contact points to the rock. This is the most important item for this climbing gear list.
2. Chalk
Your hands will get sweaty when you are climbing, even if they never have before, so you need to dry out that natural slipping agent with Chalk. You only need a little on your fingertips and palms.
3. Chalk Bag
If you plan to keep your chalk on your back while climbing so that you can restock in mid-climb, or if you simply just want to keep your chalk, a chalk bag is a must.
4. Helmet
Knowing that your head is probably the most important part of your body, I suggest keeping it protected. Most people who are hard core Boulderers usually do not where a helmet, but I think it is still a good idea.
5. Crash Pad
When you are bouldering, whether you are amateur or pro, you could fall. Falling is not the most pleasing thing you could do to your body, but a strategically placed Crash Pad will help to minimize those aches and pains.
6. Clothing
While of course being optional, the clothing that you wear should help, not hinder your climb. I prefer a performance wear base layer, then a pair of regular old hiking shorts that you don't care to beat up.
7. Gear Pack
In order to keep all of your Free Climbing/Bouldering Gear together, it is a good idea to have a simple Gear Bag/Gear Pack to store everything in. That way, you can just grab you pack and go!
To successfully Boulder, you need only a few things
1. Climbing Shoes
When bouldering, you need to wear rock climbing shoes that are fitted correctly because your feet are two of your only four contact points to the rock. This is the most important item for this climbing gear list.
2. Chalk
Your hands will get sweaty when you are climbing, even if they never have before, so you need to dry out that natural slipping agent with Chalk. You only need a little on your fingertips and palms.
3. Chalk Bag
If you plan to keep your chalk on your back while climbing so that you can restock in mid-climb, or if you simply just want to keep your chalk, a chalk bag is a must.
4. Helmet
Knowing that your head is probably the most important part of your body, I suggest keeping it protected. Most people who are hard core Boulderers usually do not where a helmet, but I think it is still a good idea.
5. Crash Pad
When you are bouldering, whether you are amateur or pro, you could fall. Falling is not the most pleasing thing you could do to your body, but a strategically placed Crash Pad will help to minimize those aches and pains.
6. Clothing
While of course being optional, the clothing that you wear should help, not hinder your climb. I prefer a performance wear base layer, then a pair of regular old hiking shorts that you don't care to beat up.
7. Gear Pack
In order to keep all of your Free Climbing/Bouldering Gear together, it is a good idea to have a simple Gear Bag/Gear Pack to store everything in. That way, you can just grab you pack and go!
GREAT SITES FOR BOULDERING GEAR: