Beginners Climbing clothing

The clothing you choose must be suitable to the type of climbing you intend to do.

Indoor Climbing Clothing: Indoor centers are generally warm, sometimes very warm! although some are very cold in winter .It is always best to take a couple of layers on your first visit just incase. on the whole most people wear shorts or 3/4 trousers and T-shirts/vest

Outdoor Climbing Clothing: The weather can change significantly, sometimes with little or no warning, a sunny day can turn into a thunder storm within minutes. It usually happens when you have walked for over an hour to get to a climb and have your shorts and vest on!!! It is advisable to to take a range of layers even on a sunny day and always check the weather forecast, this way you can always make sure you have everything you may need.

1. Shorts/vest

2. 3/4 Trousers/T-shirt

3. Jumper/fleece

4. warm coat

5. Water proof clothing

What Fabrics Should You Choose?

Some fabrics are more hardwearing than others such as man made fibers like nylon and polyester, they are also quite quick drying unlike cotton which absorbs moisture and dry's slowly. Some people prefer tight fitting clothing such as lycra, lycra is generally a more delicate material and as a result is far less durable

. Many lycra products are now mixed with other materials to make them more durable. Some man made fabrics wick moisture away from the skin, these are particularly good for outdoor climbing, fleece is a good example and comes in many styles and of various thickness.

The most important things to consider are...... Will I be comfortable climbing in these? Is it suitable for the weather conditions I may encounter? Will it restrict my movement or gear handling? Will I over heat? (this can zap vital energy supplies)

Shop around and and make sure you choose something you feel comfortable climbing in and that you have everything you may need for the various weather conditions you will encounter. Like any clothing you can pay as much or as little as you like with new designs being brought out every season. If you intend to climb in extreme temperatures or altitudes then it is important to seek professional advice, climbing in such conditions without the correct clothing can result in fatal consequences so ask an expert.