We’re not going to make this anymore difficult than it already is, because to be honest, it is very simple!
The type of climbing we do most of is top roping, lead climbing and bouldering, and you don’t need lots and lots of expensive kit for this, but it is nice to have your own so you don’t have to rent it everytime!

Being a student means (usually) not having lots of money to spend on things that aren’t pizza or alcohol, so keeping your eyes open for a good deal is smart. We recommend Cotswold Outdoor, where you also get a 15% discount if you’re a member of the club, or Tiso. You can find both these shops online or on Rose Street. Be careful if you’re thinking of buying secondhand equipment, it is best to know the previous use and condition of it, especially for harnesses!

Shoes
The one thing we definitely recommend you get is your own pair of climbing shoes. The reason being that it’s nice to have a pair of shoes only your sweaty feet enter and if you come outdoor climbing with us you don’t have to climb in trainers. Climbing shoes can get pretty pricey, but beginner shoes are usually cheaper. The beginner shoes are not as aggressive (read: painful) as other shoes, which is quite nice if you’re not used to wearing them. These need to be snug, and it’s recommended that you climb without socks in them. If you get your shoes from a shop the staff is very helpful and you get to try them before you get them.

Harness
Shoes and harness are the two things you are able to rent at Alien Rock, but if you want a harness that is comfortable, and not to forget funky and colourful, getting your own is a good idea. Prices can be quite high for a student budget, but if you have a tape measurer and an eye for a good deal, you can find sales online. Make sure you buy one that fits (hence the tape measurer) and is from a well known brand so you know it’s safe!

Screwgate carabiner and belay device
You can borrow belay devices from Alien Rock for free, but if you’re going outdoors or another place to climb having your own is a good idea. Make sure the carabiner is a screwgate (we want to be careful with the person we’re belaying) and that the belay device is a size that fits, anything between 7-11mm should be fine, but if you’re unsure, ask someone in the club or the shop.

Chalk
Chalk dries out the sweat on your hands and increases friction between your hands and the holds when you climb. There are many types of chalk, loose chalk, liquid chalk, chalk balls; whichever one you go for is a matter of preference. If you get loose chalk or a chalk ball, you can treat yourself to a fancy chalk bag to go with it, how about one that matches your harness or shoes? There’s all sorts of colours and patterns (Media Sec Maria has a homemade one) and if none of the ones in an outdoors shop takes your fancy, have a look on Amazon!

Tape
Climbing can be pretty tough on your hands. If you plan to climb a lot or try difficult routes, having tape to treat your poor fingers and hands with is a very good idea. We don’t want skinless and bloody fingers!

And most importantly, you can never have enough climbing gear…