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But for gear that will help you climb higher off the ground, read on. After all, simplicity is one of the best perks of pebble wrestling. They also are often designed with lacing all the way to the toe (like a climbing shoe) for a snug fit that holds your foot tightly on technical terrain. La Sportiva's TX4 is one of the most popular models of approach shoes, lauded for its durable and protective build, comfort on the trail, and security on the rock. Approach shoes differ from lightweight hiking shoes or trail-running shoes in a few main ways, namely in their stiff, sticky rubber sole and protective rand that surrounds the toe box. Not all climbers will need to invest in a pair of approach shoes, but they're an invaluable piece of equipment when your commute to the crag involves rock hopping or scrambling. One of our favorites is the Organic Climbing Big Five Pad, custom-made with your pick of colors and design, simple features, and soft and long-lasting memory foam (the only pad of its kind). Crash pads come in a range of sizes with varying types of foam, exterior fabrics, fold designs, and carrying comfort. But when the allure of real rock tempts you outside, a crash pad (and often more than one) is absolutely vital for your safely. If you’re sticking solely to gym problems, shoes and chalk are all you’ll need. And be sure to fill your bag before you head out- Friction Labs chalk is widely thought to be the best around, but if you're just starting out, any brand of athletic chalk will do. We like Static Climbing for their creative designs and the Mammut Multipitch for its functional storage layout, including both mesh and zippered pockets. Though this purchase will likely be based more on style than function, features to be aware of include pockets, ultra-durable or lightweight materials, and the type of attachment point-the bag either ties around your waist and attaches with a buckle or has a loop so you can connect it via cordelette or a carabiner.
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Boulderers often chalk up on the ground using a bucket, while rope climbers tie a bag around their waist for convenient access throughout the climb.
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While not an expensive item, chalk is a pretty essential one: it helps you grip each hold-whether plastic or rock-even when your hands are sweaty. And to get to the crag in the first place, it might be worth investing in a pair of approach shoes (see below). For beginners, the Butora Endeavor is our top pick for 2021 due to its high-quality construction, impressively sticky rubber, slight downturn for increased performance, and odor-minimizing organic hemp liner. Most boulderers prefer an ultra-aggressive slipper like the Scarpa Instinct VS, while tradsters benefit more from a stiff, flat, and protective shoe like the La Sportiva TC Pro. Depending on the type of climbing they’re geared toward, shoes vary in shape, downturn (how curved they are), stiffness, amount of rubber, and materials. Whether you’re climbing in the gym or outside on real rock, you won’t get very far off the ground without a good pair of climbing shoes. For more information on each product category, many of the headings link to our detailed product round-ups, which are the result of years of testing and opinions (we spend a lot of time outside). And for all of our recommendations in one place, see our climbing gear reviews. Our detailed climbing checklist below covers everything from equipment for different types of climbing (bouldering, sport, trad) to optional items and extras you won’t want to forget. Whether you spend your days climbing indoors or scaling multi-hundred-foot monoliths, it’s always helpful to know what you need.