Top-rope climbing doesn’t require as much gear as other types of climbing. This makes it a good way to start out climbing, since you don’t have to invest a lot of money to get out on the rocks.
Basic top-rope anchor gear:
- Rope: One 165-foot (50-meter) or 200-foot (60-meter) 10.5mm or 11mm rope.
- 9/16-inch sewn slings: 6-10 24-inch slings; 2-4
48-inch slings. Used to
create anchor system.
- 1-inch tubular webbing:
1 tied in a 10-foot loop;
1 tied in a 20-foot loop. Use to create anchor system; ideal for tying off trees.
- Oval carabiners: 6-10. Always double them up with gates opposed for safety.
- Locking carabiners: 2-6. I prefer to always use locking carabiners on my entire top-rope anchor system rather than regular ovals.
- Locking steel carabiners: 2. Steel carabiners are the strongest gear to thread the rope through. Aluminum wears much faster, leading to grooves in the carabiner.
Personal top-rope gear:
- Rock shoes: 1 pair per climber. Snug sneakers can also work for beginners.
- Harness: 1 per climber. Ideally each climber wears their own harness. If not, make sure you have harnesses for the belayer and the climber.
- Belay and rappel device: At least 1 with a locking carabiner to attach it to your harness.
- Helmet: 1 per climber. Essential cranial protection when climbing, belaying, or standing at the cliff-base.
- Chalk bag and chalk: Optional for sweaty hands. Dip your hand in the chalk in your chalk bag and problem solved.
