Climbing: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Basic Rappel Equipment
Here is a list of all the essential equipment that you need to rappel off your newest climb, including ropes, rappel device, anchors, slings, harness, gloves, and daisy chain.
Here is a list of all the essential equipment that you need to rappel off your newest climb, including ropes, rappel device, anchors, slings, harness, gloves, and daisy chain.
K2 Fast Facts
Facts about K2, the second highest mountain in the world.
Facts about K2, the second highest mountain in the world.
10 Rock Shoe Buying Tips
10 Rock Climbing Shoe Buying Tips -- Buying a New Pair of Rock Climbing Shoes
10 Rock Climbing Shoe Buying Tips -- Buying a New Pair of Rock Climbing Shoes
4 Rappel Knots
If you're out climbing and need to rappel off the cliff, here are the four best knots to tie your climbing ropes together.
If you're out climbing and need to rappel off the cliff, here are the four best knots to tie your climbing ropes together.
Mount Everest
Facts about Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
Facts about Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
Kilimanjaro
Learn here about Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and one of the most popular high mountains in the world for climbers.
Learn here about Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and one of the most popular high mountains in the world for climbers.
6 Important Climbing Knots
You need to know these 6 knots to go rock climbing safely--Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, Clove Hitch, Figure-8-on-a-Bight, Double Fisherman's Knot, Prusik Knot, and Münter Hitch.
You need to know these 6 knots to go rock climbing safely--Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, Clove Hitch, Figure-8-on-a-Bight, Double Fisherman's Knot, Prusik Knot, and Münter Hitch.
The Best Tie-In Knot
How to tie a Figure-8 Follow-Through knot, the best knot for tying into a climbing rope.
How to tie a Figure-8 Follow-Through knot, the best knot for tying into a climbing rope.
Matterhorn
Learn all about about the Matterhorn and climbing the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous mountain.
Learn all about about the Matterhorn and climbing the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous mountain.
LearntoBelay
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
8,000-Meter Peaks List
The world’s 14 highest mountains are an exclusive club of peaks whose summits tower more than 8,000 meters (26,247 feet) above sea level.The Eight Thousanders all lie in the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges in central Asia.
The world’s 14 highest mountains are an exclusive club of peaks whose summits tower more than 8,000 meters (26,247 feet) above sea level.The Eight Thousanders all lie in the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges in central Asia.
Top-Rope Climbing
Top-rope climbing is the best way for beginners to get out on the rocks. Check here for the skills you need to know and what equipment you need to buy.
Top-rope climbing is the best way for beginners to get out on the rocks. Check here for the skills you need to know and what equipment you need to buy.
4 Friction Knots
Every climber needs to know these 4 friction knots--Prusik knot, Klemheist knot, Bachmann knot, and Autoblock knot--to climb a rope in an emergency or to escape a belay during a self-rescue.
Every climber needs to know these 4 friction knots--Prusik knot, Klemheist knot, Bachmann knot, and Autoblock knot--to climb a rope in an emergency or to escape a belay during a self-rescue.
Belay & Rappel Devices
Belay and rappel devices are one of the most important pieces of climbing equipment that you will need to purchase and learn to use so you can safely belay and rappel at the cliff.
Belay and rappel devices are one of the most important pieces of climbing equipment that you will need to purchase and learn to use so you can safely belay and rappel at the cliff.
All About Rappelling
Rappelling is a climbing technique that allows you to do a controlled descent down a rope from a cliff or mountain. Learn here all about rappelling and the essential climbing skills you need to learn to safely rappel.
Rappelling is a climbing technique that allows you to do a controlled descent down a rope from a cliff or mountain. Learn here all about rappelling and the essential climbing skills you need to learn to safely rappel.
Climbing Knots
Learn all about knots for climbing, including the best knots for climbing; knots to tie rappel ropes together; friction knots; knot strength; and how to tie and untie knots.
Learn all about knots for climbing, including the best knots for climbing; knots to tie rappel ropes together; friction knots; knot strength; and how to tie and untie knots.
3 Skills for a TR Anchor
The 3 basic skills you need to know to build a safe anchor system for top-rope rock climbing.
The 3 basic skills you need to know to build a safe anchor system for top-rope rock climbing.
Top-Rope Climbing Gear
Here's eveything that you need to get out top-rope climbing on your local cliff, including a climbing rope, carabiners, slings, and personal gear.
Here's eveything that you need to get out top-rope climbing on your local cliff, including a climbing rope, carabiners, slings, and personal gear.
Figure-8 Fisherman's Knot
Definition of Double Figure-8 Fisherman’s Knot, climbing words for the best knot to tie 2 ropes together.
Definition of Double Figure-8 Fisherman’s Knot, climbing words for the best knot to tie 2 ropes together.
Mont Blanc
Learn all about Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in western Europe and the Alps, and a popular mountain for climbers.
Learn all about Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in western Europe and the Alps, and a popular mountain for climbers.
How to Tie an Autoblock Knot
Learn how to tie and use an autoblock knot, an essential safety knot used in climbing and rappelling.
Learn how to tie and use an autoblock knot, an essential safety knot used in climbing and rappelling.
Black Diamond ATC-XP
Review of Black Diamond ATC-XP Climbing Belay Device
Review of Black Diamond ATC-XP Climbing Belay Device
What Shoes to Wear
You're just learning how to climb and want to buy a new pair of rock climbing shoes. Learn the essentials here about what kind of shoes to buy and how they should fit your foot.
You're just learning how to climb and want to buy a new pair of rock climbing shoes. Learn the essentials here about what kind of shoes to buy and how they should fit your foot.
Mountain Climbing
Learn here about mountaineering or the sport of climbing mountains, one of the finest outdoor opportunities for the lover of high places. Mountain climbing is about challenge and perseverance, about putting hands and feet onto rocks and ice and snow and finally reaching a summit.
Learn here about mountaineering or the sport of climbing mountains, one of the finest outdoor opportunities for the lover of high places. Mountain climbing is about challenge and perseverance, about putting hands and feet onto rocks and ice and snow and finally reaching a summit.
10 Climbing Safety Tips
Climbing is dangerous. Learn the basic rules of climbing safety to stay safe on the rocks and avoid accidents. Follow these ten tips for climbing safety for a safe climbing adventure.
Climbing is dangerous. Learn the basic rules of climbing safety to stay safe on the rocks and avoid accidents. Follow these ten tips for climbing safety for a safe climbing adventure.
Types of Harnesses
Harnesses are specifically made for different types of climbing, including sport, gym, and competition climbing, general all-around climbing, big wall climbing, alpine and ice climbing, caving, and kids climbing. Specific harnesses are made for women and children.
Harnesses are specifically made for different types of climbing, including sport, gym, and competition climbing, general all-around climbing, big wall climbing, alpine and ice climbing, caving, and kids climbing. Specific harnesses are made for women and children.
Sport Climbing Gear
Here's all the basic equipment you need to go sport climbing, including rope, quickdraws, locking carabiners, and personal gear.
Here's all the basic equipment you need to go sport climbing, including rope, quickdraws, locking carabiners, and personal gear.
Using a Daisy Chain
A daisy chain, used in rock climbing, is a length of webbing with variable-length sewn links which can be clipped into anchors with a carabiner. Learn here about daisy chains and how to properly use them.
A daisy chain, used in rock climbing, is a length of webbing with variable-length sewn links which can be clipped into anchors with a carabiner. Learn here about daisy chains and how to properly use them.
Climbing Glove System
When you're ice climbing or climbing high mountains, your hands are going to get cold. What's the best glove system to use to keep your hands and fingers toasty warm and free from the risk of frostbite? Learn from mountaineer Susan Paul how to create a glove system for winter climbing.
When you're ice climbing or climbing high mountains, your hands are going to get cold. What's the best glove system to use to keep your hands and fingers toasty warm and free from the risk of frostbite? Learn from mountaineer Susan Paul how to create a glove system for winter climbing.
Mount Elbert
Facts About Mount Elbert, the Highest Mountain in Colorado
Facts About Mount Elbert, the Highest Mountain in Colorado
Petzl GriGri
A review of the Petzl GriGri, a self-braking belay device for rock climbing.
A review of the Petzl GriGri, a self-braking belay device for rock climbing.
Tying into the Rope
How to tie into a climbing rope and why the Figure-8 Follow-Through is the best knot for tying in.
How to tie into a climbing rope and why the Figure-8 Follow-Through is the best knot for tying in.
Chris Sharma Gear Gifts
What are you going to ask Santa for this year? He can't make you climb like Chris Sharma, but he can give you the gear that Chris uses. Here's some gift ideas that will keep you climbing like Chris Sharma.
What are you going to ask Santa for this year? He can't make you climb like Chris Sharma, but he can give you the gear that Chris uses. Here's some gift ideas that will keep you climbing like Chris Sharma.
Prusik Knot Definition
Definition of Prusik Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend a fixed rope.
Definition of Prusik Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend a fixed rope.
Your Climbing Harness
A climbing harness is a key piece of your personal climbing equipment. Your harness, with a waist belt and leg loops constructed of sewn webbing, connects you to your climbing rope with a knot. Learn here about the evolution and types of harnesses.
A climbing harness is a key piece of your personal climbing equipment. Your harness, with a waist belt and leg loops constructed of sewn webbing, connects you to your climbing rope with a knot. Learn here about the evolution and types of harnesses.
Mount Kosciuszko
Fast facts about Mount Kosciuszko, the highest mountain in Australia and one of the Seven Summits.
Fast facts about Mount Kosciuszko, the highest mountain in Australia and one of the Seven Summits.
Nanga Parbat Facts
Facts About Nanga Parbat, the Ninth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Nanga Parbat, the Ninth Highest Mountain in the World
Figure-8-on-a-Bight Knot
Definition of Figure-8-on-a-Bight Knot, climbing words for the a secure knot used to tie a climber to an anchor.
Definition of Figure-8-on-a-Bight Knot, climbing words for the a secure knot used to tie a climber to an anchor.
Rope Care Tips
Your climbing rope won't last forever. Follow these tips to increase its life--don't step on your rope, use a rope bag, run your rope freely, switch ends after falling on your rope, and regularly wash it.
Your climbing rope won't last forever. Follow these tips to increase its life--don't step on your rope, use a rope bag, run your rope freely, switch ends after falling on your rope, and regularly wash it.
The Seven Summits
The Seven Summits, a well-known mountaineering objective, are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Learn here about these seven mountains and climbing them.
The Seven Summits, a well-known mountaineering objective, are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Learn here about these seven mountains and climbing them.
Kangchenjunga Facts
Facts about Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Facts about Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Climbing is Dangerous
Climbing safely is your responsibility. Stay safe climbing by exercising good judgment and by knowing the limitations of your skills, ability, and experience.
Climbing safely is your responsibility. Stay safe climbing by exercising good judgment and by knowing the limitations of your skills, ability, and experience.
Colorado's Fourteeners
Colorado offers 55 Fourteeners or 14,000-foot mountains for climbers to ascend. Learn all about Colorado's Fourteeners and how to climb them.
Colorado offers 55 Fourteeners or 14,000-foot mountains for climbers to ascend. Learn all about Colorado's Fourteeners and how to climb them.
Annapurna Facts
Facts About Annapurna, the Tenth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Annapurna, the Tenth Highest Mountain in the World
Sport Climbing Safety
What you need to know to have a safe sport climbing experience, including belaying, lowering, setting up anchors, and rope management.
What you need to know to have a safe sport climbing experience, including belaying, lowering, setting up anchors, and rope management.
Devils Tower Facts
Devils Tower, a spectacular natural landmark in Wyoming, is one of the premier climbing destinations in the United States. Find out here all about Devils Tower.
Devils Tower, a spectacular natural landmark in Wyoming, is one of the premier climbing destinations in the United States. Find out here all about Devils Tower.
Climbing Up
Learn how to climb an indoor wall in a climbing gym and how to use your hands and feet.
Learn how to climb an indoor wall in a climbing gym and how to use your hands and feet.
Double Overhand Knot
Definition of Double Overhand Knot, climbing words for a knot used to tie 2 ropes together for rappelling.
Definition of Double Overhand Knot, climbing words for a knot used to tie 2 ropes together for rappelling.
Clove Hitch
Definition of Clove Hitch, climbing words for a knot to tie a rope to a carabiner, anchor, or tree.
Definition of Clove Hitch, climbing words for a knot to tie a rope to a carabiner, anchor, or tree.
Belay Device
Definition of Belay Device, a climbing equipment word for hardware used for belaying and rappelling.
Definition of Belay Device, a climbing equipment word for hardware used for belaying and rappelling.
Rock Shoe Repairs
You've been climbing all summer and your rock shoes need new soles. What do you need done to the shoes and who's going to do the job? Read this guide to rock shoe resoles, repairs, and cobblers to make the right choices.
You've been climbing all summer and your rock shoes need new soles. What do you need done to the shoes and who's going to do the job? Read this guide to rock shoe resoles, repairs, and cobblers to make the right choices.
Rappel Device
Definition of Rappel Device, a climbing equipment word for a metal device used for belaying and rappelling.
Definition of Rappel Device, a climbing equipment word for a metal device used for belaying and rappelling.
Mount Whitney
Check out lots of interesting facts and statistics about Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in California and the highest in the lower 48 states.
Check out lots of interesting facts and statistics about Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in California and the highest in the lower 48 states.
How to Tie a Prusik Knot
Learn how to tie a Prusik knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Learn how to tie a Prusik knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Sport Climbing
Sport climbing, the pursuit of bolt-protected gymnastic climbing, offers the rewards of rock climbing without a lot of the risks. Learn here what sport climbing is and what skills you need to get out on the rocks.
Sport climbing, the pursuit of bolt-protected gymnastic climbing, offers the rewards of rock climbing without a lot of the risks. Learn here what sport climbing is and what skills you need to get out on the rocks.
Orizaba Fast Facts
Learn here about Pico de Orizaba, the highest mountain in Mexico and the highest volcano in North America.
Learn here about Pico de Orizaba, the highest mountain in Mexico and the highest volcano in North America.
Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot
Definition of Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, climbing words for the best and most used knot for tying a rope into a harness.
Definition of Figure-8 Follow-Through Knot, climbing words for the best and most used knot for tying a rope into a harness.
Locking Carabiner
Definition of Locking Carabiner, a climbing equipment word for a metal link that locks shut.
Definition of Locking Carabiner, a climbing equipment word for a metal link that locks shut.
Anchor & Belayer
The most important parts of the top-rope climbing safety chain are the anchors and the belayer.
The most important parts of the top-rope climbing safety chain are the anchors and the belayer.
What is Climbing?
Want to know what climbing is all about? This article describes climbing as a recreational sport that uses hands and feet to ascend steep obstacles like mountains, cliffs, and artificial walls.
Want to know what climbing is all about? This article describes climbing as a recreational sport that uses hands and feet to ascend steep obstacles like mountains, cliffs, and artificial walls.
Autoblock Knot Definition
The autoblock knot is an important climbing knot used as a safety back-up on a rappel rope.
The autoblock knot is an important climbing knot used as a safety back-up on a rappel rope.
Bolt
Definition of Bolt, a climbing equipment word for an artificial anchor.
Definition of Bolt, a climbing equipment word for an artificial anchor.
Harness
Definition of Harness, a climbing equipment word for safety waist belt with leg loops.
Definition of Harness, a climbing equipment word for safety waist belt with leg loops.
Anchor
Definition of Anchor, a climbing word for a piece of gear or natural object that ties or anchors a climber to a face.
Definition of Anchor, a climbing word for a piece of gear or natural object that ties or anchors a climber to a face.
Klemheist Knot
Definition of Klemheist Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend and descend a fixed rope.
Definition of Klemheist Knot, climbing words for a friction knot used to ascend and descend a fixed rope.
Care of Rock Shoes
To ensure that your rock shoes last, follow these three tips every time you go climbing and your shoes will have a long and happy life on the rocks.
To ensure that your rock shoes last, follow these three tips every time you go climbing and your shoes will have a long and happy life on the rocks.
Gangkhar Puensum
Learn all about Gangkhar Puensum in Bhutan, the world's highest unclimbed mountain.
Learn all about Gangkhar Puensum in Bhutan, the world's highest unclimbed mountain.
Rappel
Definition of Rappel, a climbing word for descending fixed ropes.
Definition of Rappel, a climbing word for descending fixed ropes.
3 Types of Rock Faces
There are 3 types of rock faces you'll encounter when you're rock climbing — slabs, vertical faces, and overhanging faces. Find out about these faces, how to climb them, and America's best areas for each type.
There are 3 types of rock faces you'll encounter when you're rock climbing — slabs, vertical faces, and overhanging faces. Find out about these faces, how to climb them, and America's best areas for each type.
Reinhold Messner Quote
Here's a great climbing quote from Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner, one of the greatest alpinists of the 20th century and the first to climb all the 8,000-meter peaks.
Here's a great climbing quote from Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner, one of the greatest alpinists of the 20th century and the first to climb all the 8,000-meter peaks.
Ready, Set, Climb!
You're ready to go rock climbing. Here's what you need to know to start climbing at your local indoor climbing gym.
You're ready to go rock climbing. Here's what you need to know to start climbing at your local indoor climbing gym.
Broken Bolt Accident
A rock climber falls while rappelling at the Garden of the Gods when an old anchor bolt breaks. Read an analysis of the accident and the lessons to learn from it.
A rock climber falls while rappelling at the Garden of the Gods when an old anchor bolt breaks. Read an analysis of the accident and the lessons to learn from it.
Hueco Tanks
Hueco Tanks State Historical Park in west Texas offers some of America’s finest bouldering and climbing on its towering walls and boulders. The 860-acre park, with a warm dry climate, is one of America’s premier winter climbing areas.
Hueco Tanks State Historical Park in west Texas offers some of America’s finest bouldering and climbing on its towering walls and boulders. The 860-acre park, with a warm dry climate, is one of America’s premier winter climbing areas.
Climbing Harness Parts
Your climbing harness, which basically connects your body to your rope, is a complicated piece of equipment. It has lots of parts—straps, buckles, and loops. Read this breakdown of all the parts of a climbing harness so you know what you’re looking at when you go out to buy a new harness.
Your climbing harness, which basically connects your body to your rope, is a complicated piece of equipment. It has lots of parts—straps, buckles, and loops. Read this breakdown of all the parts of a climbing harness so you know what you’re looking at when you go out to buy a new harness.
6 Rappelling Skills
Rappelling is skill-based. Learn here what the six essential climbing skills you need to know to rappel safely and efficiently.
Rappelling is skill-based. Learn here what the six essential climbing skills you need to know to rappel safely and efficiently.
Climbing Types
Climbing is divided into different types and styles, including rock climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, and mountaineering.
Climbing is divided into different types and styles, including rock climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, and mountaineering.
Colorado Fourteeners List
Colorado, the roof of the Rockies, offers 55 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Here is a complete listing of all the Fourteeners, their elevations, and their mountain ranges.
Colorado, the roof of the Rockies, offers 55 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Here is a complete listing of all the Fourteeners, their elevations, and their mountain ranges.
Trango B52 Review
A complete Guide Review of a Trango B52 belay and rappel device used for rock, ice, and sport climbing.
A complete Guide Review of a Trango B52 belay and rappel device used for rock, ice, and sport climbing.
Jon Krakauer Quote
Here's a quote from writer and climber Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air, about his attempt to solo climb a fearsome wall on Devil Thumb in Alaska.
Here's a quote from writer and climber Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air, about his attempt to solo climb a fearsome wall on Devil Thumb in Alaska.
Bachmann Knot
The Bachmann Knot is a friction knot with a carabiner handle that is used in climbing to ascend fixed ropes.
The Bachmann Knot is a friction knot with a carabiner handle that is used in climbing to ascend fixed ropes.
Tying & Untying Knots
How to tie and untie knots used in rock climbing and mountaineering.
How to tie and untie knots used in rock climbing and mountaineering.
Crack Climbing
Definition of Crack Climbing, climbing words for ascending fissures or cracks in rock faces by jamming or wedging body parts into them.
Definition of Crack Climbing, climbing words for ascending fissures or cracks in rock faces by jamming or wedging body parts into them.
Learn to Climb
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
Belaying is one of the most important climbing skills. Here you learn the basics about belaying and using belay devices.
Royal Robbins Quote
Royal Robbins, one of America's pioneering big wall climbers in the late 1950s and 1960s, offers a great quote about his first ascent of the West Face of El Capitan in Yosemite.
Royal Robbins, one of America's pioneering big wall climbers in the late 1950s and 1960s, offers a great quote about his first ascent of the West Face of El Capitan in Yosemite.
John Otto Climbs Indy
Colorado National Monument was preserved through the efforts of John Otto, a trailblazer, patriot, and outdoorsman.
Colorado National Monument was preserved through the efforts of John Otto, a trailblazer, patriot, and outdoorsman.
Rock Shoes Wear Out
Rock shoes, like the rest of your climbing equipment, eventually wear out. The more you climb, the faster your shoes get trashed. Follow these shoe-care tips to keep climbing in your rock shoes.
Rock shoes, like the rest of your climbing equipment, eventually wear out. The more you climb, the faster your shoes get trashed. Follow these shoe-care tips to keep climbing in your rock shoes.
Altitude Affects the Brain
A 2006 study shows that climbing mountains is hazardous to your brain, with the lack of oxygen causing brain damage and loss of brain cells.
A 2006 study shows that climbing mountains is hazardous to your brain, with the lack of oxygen causing brain damage and loss of brain cells.
Belay
Definition of Belay, a climbing word for the process of securing and safeguarding a rope for a climber.
Definition of Belay, a climbing word for the process of securing and safeguarding a rope for a climber.
Climbing Voice Commands
Climbing voice commands are basic verbal commands that rock climbers use to communicate with each other when they're climbing. Learn here why climbers use voice commands and what the basic voice commands are.
Climbing voice commands are basic verbal commands that rock climbers use to communicate with each other when they're climbing. Learn here why climbers use voice commands and what the basic voice commands are.
Dhaulagiri Facts
Facts About Dhaulagiri, the Seventh Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Dhaulagiri, the Seventh Highest Mountain in the World
7 Summit Climbing Costs
How much does it cost to climb The Seven Summits, the seven highest mountains on the seven continents? You know it will cost a lot of money, find out here how much it costs to climb all seven mountains.
How much does it cost to climb The Seven Summits, the seven highest mountains on the seven continents? You know it will cost a lot of money, find out here how much it costs to climb all seven mountains.
Slings
Definition of Slings, a climbing equipment word for either sewn or tied pieces of tubular webbing.
Definition of Slings, a climbing equipment word for either sewn or tied pieces of tubular webbing.
Bouldering Equipment
The beauty of bouldering is not just doing hard moves but also its minimalism. You don’t need to spend lots of money on equipment to have fun on the boulders. Here are the 3 essential pieces of climbing equipment that you need to go bouldering.
The beauty of bouldering is not just doing hard moves but also its minimalism. You don’t need to spend lots of money on equipment to have fun on the boulders. Here are the 3 essential pieces of climbing equipment that you need to go bouldering.
Finger Crack
Definition of Finger Crack, climbing words for a finger-sized crack that is ascend by jamming or wedging a climber's fingers into.
Definition of Finger Crack, climbing words for a finger-sized crack that is ascend by jamming or wedging a climber's fingers into.
Static Rope
Definition of Static Rope, a climbing equipment word for a rope that doesn't stretch.
Definition of Static Rope, a climbing equipment word for a rope that doesn't stretch.
Rope
Definition of Rope, a climbing equipment word for a length of long cord used for climbing protection.
Definition of Rope, a climbing equipment word for a length of long cord used for climbing protection.
Your Rope is Your Lifeline
Ropes are a critical piece of climbing equipment. A climbing rope is our lifeline. The rope secures us to each other in partnership and attaches us to the cliffs.
Ropes are a critical piece of climbing equipment. A climbing rope is our lifeline. The rope secures us to each other in partnership and attaches us to the cliffs.
Your Rope's Life
How long will your climbing rope last? Find out here about the life of your climbing rope and what wears your rope out.
How long will your climbing rope last? Find out here about the life of your climbing rope and what wears your rope out.
Gasherbrum I Facts
Facts About Gasherbrum I, the Eleventh Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Gasherbrum I, the Eleventh Highest Mountain in the World
Chain of Top-Rope Safety
Learn here about your top-rope chain of safety; the parts of the chain of safety; and the serious business of top-rope anchors.
Learn here about your top-rope chain of safety; the parts of the chain of safety; and the serious business of top-rope anchors.
Why Climb?
Why go climbing? It's a lot of fun, gets you outside, and challenges you to push the boundaries of the possible. Learn here about some of the risks and rewards that climbing offers.
Why go climbing? It's a lot of fun, gets you outside, and challenges you to push the boundaries of the possible. Learn here about some of the risks and rewards that climbing offers.
Ian Spencer-Green Picks Pockets Up Color of Emotion
Photograph of Ian Spencer-Green climbing Finger Pockets on Color of Emotion at Penitente Canyon, Colorado.
Photograph of Ian Spencer-Green climbing Finger Pockets on Color of Emotion at Penitente Canyon, Colorado.
Makalu Fast Facts
Facts About Makalu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World.
Facts About Makalu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World.
Leave No Trace Climbing
Climbing has become very popular. There are lots of climbers at the crags these days. We need to practice a Leave No Trace climbing ethic to reduce our impact on fragile climbing areas. Follow these guidelines from The Access Fund to protect climbing areas.
Climbing has become very popular. There are lots of climbers at the crags these days. We need to practice a Leave No Trace climbing ethic to reduce our impact on fragile climbing areas. Follow these guidelines from The Access Fund to protect climbing areas.
Speed Climbing Tip 5
Speed Climbing Tip #5 — Use pre-rigged slings to clip into anchors for a faster turn-around at belays.
Speed Climbing Tip #5 — Use pre-rigged slings to clip into anchors for a faster turn-around at belays.
Cho Oyu Facts
Facts About Cho Oyu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Cho Oyu, the Fifth Highest Mountain in the World
All About Bouldering
Bouldering, the discipline of rock climbing on small cliffs and boulders, celebrates the joy of movement over stone. Bouldering is all about movement, of climbing with purity and simplicity and without a rope and protective gear. Bouldering is simply you and the rock. Learn all about bouldering here.
Bouldering, the discipline of rock climbing on small cliffs and boulders, celebrates the joy of movement over stone. Bouldering is all about movement, of climbing with purity and simplicity and without a rope and protective gear. Bouldering is simply you and the rock. Learn all about bouldering here.
Climbing with Layton Kor
A story about the first ascent of a desert tower that I climbed with the legendary rock climber Layton Kor, Everest climbing hero Ed Webster, and British climber Dennis Jump in the Arizona desert.
A story about the first ascent of a desert tower that I climbed with the legendary rock climber Layton Kor, Everest climbing hero Ed Webster, and British climber Dennis Jump in the Arizona desert.
Keep Your Hands Warm
If you're ice climbing or mountaineering in the winter, it's easy to get cold hands and even frostbite. It's important to keep your hands warm. Find out more about how to keep your hands toasty and protect your digits from frostbite.
If you're ice climbing or mountaineering in the winter, it's easy to get cold hands and even frostbite. It's important to keep your hands warm. Find out more about how to keep your hands toasty and protect your digits from frostbite.
The Artistry of Wounded Knee and Sitting Bull
Photograph of rock climbing route names painted on the rock at Secteur Biographie at Ceuse, France.
Photograph of rock climbing route names painted on the rock at Secteur Biographie at Ceuse, France.
Quickdraw
Definition of Quickdraw, a climbing equipment word for 2 carabiners attached by a sewn sling.
Definition of Quickdraw, a climbing equipment word for 2 carabiners attached by a sewn sling.
Equalizing Figure-8 Knot
The Equalizing Figure-8 Knot is an ideal knot to know for tying a climbing rope into anchors.
The Equalizing Figure-8 Knot is an ideal knot to know for tying a climbing rope into anchors.
The Last Gentleman
Photo of ice climbers high on Mount Pisgah's cliff above Lake Willoughby, Vermont.
Photo of ice climbers high on Mount Pisgah's cliff above Lake Willoughby, Vermont.
Speed Tip #8
Speed Climbing Tip #8 -- To climb faster use cams instead of nuts when you place climbing protection since they're easier to place and remove.
Speed Climbing Tip #8 -- To climb faster use cams instead of nuts when you place climbing protection since they're easier to place and remove.
Joe Simpson Climbing Quote
Check out this climbing quote from famed British mountaineer Joe Simpson's book This Game of Ghosts.
Check out this climbing quote from famed British mountaineer Joe Simpson's book This Game of Ghosts.
Speed Tip 1: Good Shoes
Speed Climbing Tip #1 — Wear comfortable climbing shoes so you don't waste time putting them on and taking them off.
Speed Climbing Tip #1 — Wear comfortable climbing shoes so you don't waste time putting them on and taking them off.
Daisy Chain
Definition of Daisy Chain, climbing equipment words for a sling with sewn loops for clipping into gear.
Definition of Daisy Chain, climbing equipment words for a sling with sewn loops for clipping into gear.
Broad Peak Facts
Facts About Broad Peak, the Twelfth Highest Mountain in the World
Facts About Broad Peak, the Twelfth Highest Mountain in the World
Josh Scares the Horses
Photograph of Josh Smith climbing You're Scaring the Horses on the Early Wall at Diablo Canyon near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Photograph of Josh Smith climbing You're Scaring the Horses on the Early Wall at Diablo Canyon near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Classic Yosemite
"Classic Yosemite" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
"Classic Yosemite" drawing by Colorado Springs artist Steve Wood.
Wildly Overhanging Stone on Bibendum
Photograph of a rock climber climbing the overhanging limestone cliff at Ceuse in southern France.
Photograph of a rock climber climbing the overhanging limestone cliff at Ceuse in southern France.
Lightning Facts
Learn interesting facts about lightning. What are your chances of being struck? How many lightning strikes are there each day and year? What are the most dangerous places for lightning in the US?
Learn interesting facts about lightning. What are your chances of being struck? How many lightning strikes are there each day and year? What are the most dangerous places for lightning in the US?
Free Climbing
Definition of Free Climbing, climbing words for ascending a rock face using hands and feet and gear for protection.
Definition of Free Climbing, climbing words for ascending a rock face using hands and feet and gear for protection.
Rock Shoes
Definition of Rock Shoes, a climbing equipment word for specialized shoes made for rock climbing.
Definition of Rock Shoes, a climbing equipment word for specialized shoes made for rock climbing.
Hueco Tanks Guide
Hueco Tanks, the best climbing area in Texas, offers lots of great rock climbing and bouldering. Here's a guide to the best climbing routes on The Front Side.
Hueco Tanks, the best climbing area in Texas, offers lots of great rock climbing and bouldering. Here's a guide to the best climbing routes on The Front Side.
Carabiner
Definition of Carabiner, a climbing equipment word for a metal link with a spring-loaded gate.
Definition of Carabiner, a climbing equipment word for a metal link with a spring-loaded gate.
Cordelette
Definition of Cordelette, a climbing equipment word for a long length of rope for equalizing anchors.
Definition of Cordelette, a climbing equipment word for a long length of rope for equalizing anchors.
Cobble Pulling on Superslab
Photograph of a woman rock climber climbing on Pirate's Wall at El Rito in New Mexico.
Photograph of a woman rock climber climbing on Pirate's Wall at El Rito in New Mexico.
Crimp
Definition of Crimp, a climbing word for a fingertip handhold
Definition of Crimp, a climbing word for a fingertip handhold
Check Your Rope Out
Check your climbing rope regularly to make sure it's safe by both visually and manually inspecting it.
Check your climbing rope regularly to make sure it's safe by both visually and manually inspecting it.
Climb Fast Climb More
Climbing fast makes you a better climber. You improve your technique and climb more efficiently. Your rope management skills improve. You get stronger and have more endurance. And you get more climbing in every day. Learn here about learning to speed climb.
Climbing fast makes you a better climber. You improve your technique and climb more efficiently. Your rope management skills improve. You get stronger and have more endurance. And you get more climbing in every day. Learn here about learning to speed climb.
Lightning First Aid
The worst thing to happen during a thunder storm is that you or someone in your party is struck by lightning. If lightning strikes while you're climbing, follow these first aid steps to save a life.
The worst thing to happen during a thunder storm is that you or someone in your party is struck by lightning. If lightning strikes while you're climbing, follow these first aid steps to save a life.
Speed Climbing Tip #6
If you’re climbing a multi-pitch route or a lot of sport pitches, use a daisy chain to initially clip yourself into the anchors rather than the rope. This saves time when cleaning the anchors or doing a changeover between leaders.
If you’re climbing a multi-pitch route or a lot of sport pitches, use a daisy chain to initially clip yourself into the anchors rather than the rope. This saves time when cleaning the anchors or doing a changeover between leaders.
Webbing
Definition of Webbing, a climbing equipment word for flat or tubular nylon tape used for slings.
Definition of Webbing, a climbing equipment word for flat or tubular nylon tape used for slings.
Reaching Up Dikenstein
Photograph of Lisa Horst climbing at Sundown Ledge near North Conway in the White Mountains, New Hampshire.
Photograph of Lisa Horst climbing at Sundown Ledge near North Conway in the White Mountains, New Hampshire.
Christos Enjoys Theopetra
Photo of a climber at Theopetra, a climbing area near Meteora in central Greece.
Photo of a climber at Theopetra, a climbing area near Meteora in central Greece.
Rope Middle Mark
Two of the most common questions from climbers about climbing ropes are: Why do I need a middle mark on my rope? and How do I mark the middle of my rope? A middle mark on your rope is important because it speeds up your rope management. Learn all about middle marks here.
Two of the most common questions from climbers about climbing ropes are: Why do I need a middle mark on my rope? and How do I mark the middle of my rope? A middle mark on your rope is important because it speeds up your rope management. Learn all about middle marks here.
Carstensz Pyramid
Learn about Carstensz Pyramid, the highest mountain in New Guinea, Indonesia, and Oceania, and one of the Seven Summits.
Learn about Carstensz Pyramid, the highest mountain in New Guinea, Indonesia, and Oceania, and one of the Seven Summits.
Care of Climbing Gear
Climbing equipment takes a beating. Learn about caring and maintaining your climbing gear, including how to check and store gear, take care of your rope, and when to retire gear.
Climbing equipment takes a beating. Learn about caring and maintaining your climbing gear, including how to check and store gear, take care of your rope, and when to retire gear.
All About Crash Pads
If you go bouldering, you're going to fall. Use a bouldering crash pad to cushion your fall and help you avoid injuries to your ankles. Read here about the basics of bouldering crash pads.
If you go bouldering, you're going to fall. Use a bouldering crash pad to cushion your fall and help you avoid injuries to your ankles. Read here about the basics of bouldering crash pads.
California Fourteener List
California, with the highest peak in the contiguous US, offers 13 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Check out this complete list of all the Fourteeners, their elevations and mountain ranges, and 10 sub-peaks.
California, with the highest peak in the contiguous US, offers 13 Fourteeners or peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers. Check out this complete list of all the Fourteeners, their elevations and mountain ranges, and 10 sub-peaks.
Cam
Definition of Cam, a climbing equipment word for an active protection device.
Definition of Cam, a climbing equipment word for an active protection device.
How to Tie a Klemheist Knot
Learn how to tie a Klemheist knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Learn how to tie a Klemheist knot, an important knot used in climbing for ascending ropes and in emergency situations.
Pikes Peak Facts
Facts About Pikes Peak, the 31st Highest Mountain in the Colorado Rockies.
Facts About Pikes Peak, the 31st Highest Mountain in the Colorado Rockies.
Rappelling is Dangerous
A lot can go wrong when you're rappelling off a cliff since you're totally dependent on your equipment. Learn here why rappelling is dangerous and how you can be safer rappelling.
A lot can go wrong when you're rappelling off a cliff since you're totally dependent on your equipment. Learn here why rappelling is dangerous and how you can be safer rappelling.
Stopper Knot
A stopper knot is tied in the ends of a rappel rope to keep a climber from rappelling off it.
A stopper knot is tied in the ends of a rappel rope to keep a climber from rappelling off it.
Mark Twight Climbing Quote
Here's a quote about extreme alpinism by the 1980s master mountaineer Mark Twight, one of the best American alpinists.
Here's a quote about extreme alpinism by the 1980s master mountaineer Mark Twight, one of the best American alpinists.
Tuolumne Meadows Climbing
Tuolumne Meadows in California's Yosemite National Park is simply one of the best summer rock climbing areas in the United States with its sky-scraping granite domes and glacier-etched faces, easy access, quiet camping in lodgepole pine forests, and superb knob, crack, and slab climbing routes.
Tuolumne Meadows in California's Yosemite National Park is simply one of the best summer rock climbing areas in the United States with its sky-scraping granite domes and glacier-etched faces, easy access, quiet camping in lodgepole pine forests, and superb knob, crack, and slab climbing routes.
Speed Tip 2: Leave Shoes On
Speed Climbing Tip #2 — Keep your climbing shoes on for the day and save time.
Speed Climbing Tip #2 — Keep your climbing shoes on for the day and save time.
Yvon Chouinard Quote
Here's a quote from Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, about the transcendental experience of climbing the first ascent of the Muir Wall in 1965.
Here's a quote from Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, about the transcendental experience of climbing the first ascent of the Muir Wall in 1965.