ROCK SOLID ESSENTIALS: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO CLIMBING GEAR

Embarking on your climbing journey? Exciting times ahead! To make sure you're geared up right from the start, our experienced gym staff has handpicked the essentials just for you. Our beginner-friendly guide is here to set you on the right path to becoming a confident and well-equipped climber. Here are our top picks from Andrew (our general manager) and Angus (our head route setter):

andrew’s picks

Eco Sloper Bouldering Brush

• The Eco Sloper Bouldering Brush features premium boar hair bristles, designed for brushing efficiency on holds, ensuring your grip is always clean and reliable.

• The brush's handle is crafted from 100% recycled plastic, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability.

• Adding to its versatility, the brush includes a sandpaper backing, a thoughtful addition for hand and callous maintenance. This feature helps climbers keep their skin in top condition, essential for those challenging ascents.

Asana “Huckit Bucket"

• The Asana Huckit Bucket isn't just a chalk bucket – it's a climber's trusty companion. With its Open Lock technology, this bucket ensures your chalk stays secure and easily accessible.

• For quick access, it features easy open tabs, saving precious time during climbs.

• The added brush loops keep your cleaning tools handy, while expanding pockets provide ample space for essentials like your phone and earpods.

Solution Comp shoes

• The Solution Comp shoes are a boulderer's dream for tackling challenging routes. They take the beloved features of their original version and dial up the sensitivity and flexibility.

• With enhanced rubber coverage on the toe, these shoes excel in precise toe hooks and grips on tiny holds.

• The softer construction provides exceptional sensitivity, allowing climbers to feel and adapt to the rock's surface.

So iLL Crash Pad

• Meet the So iLL Crash Pad, the superhero of bouldering gear — but don't get it twisted, it's not a fashion accessory for your back!

• The stitching? Ultra-durable, surviving whatever plot twist your bouldering session throws at you.

• Its harness system offers all-day comfort, for when you're lugging it around (and not climbing with it on your back, please).

• The main and gap pads join forces, offering a landing so safe, you'll feel almost invincible. Almost.

angus’ picks

La Sportiva Cobra Eco shoes

• The La Sportiva Cobra Eco climbing shoe, an eco-friendly variant of the Cobra, offers beginners a blend of sensitivity and comfort.

• Crafted with recycled materials, it prioritizes sustainability without compromising performance.

• Its moderate downturn and asymmetry aid in precise foot placements, ideal for learning various climbing techniques.

• The shoe's snug fit provides support while allowing beginners to feel the rock, enhancing sensitivity and control.

• Its versatile design suits both indoor walls and outdoor crags, offering a balanced mix of grip and durability.

Edelrid Sendero harness

• The Edelrid Sendero harness caters to beginners with its focus on comfort, safety, and ease of use. 

• Featuring adjustable leg loops and waist belt, it ensures a personalized fit as climbers progress. 

• Its robust construction incorporates durable materials, providing longevity for extended learning journeys. 

• The Sendero's innovative 3D mesh padding offers exceptional breathability and comfort during prolonged climbs, reducing pressure points. 

• Its intuitive design showcases easily identifiable tie-in points and colored leg loops for straightforward usage, ideal for newcomers mastering tying knots and belaying.

Petzl Djinn Axess QuickDraw pack

• The Petzl Djinn Axess QuickDraw pack is a go-to choice for climbers seeking durability and user-friendly functionality. 

• The keylock system on the carabiners minimizes snags during clipping, ensuring smooth and hassle-free maneuvers on the wall. 

• Its wide sling provides effortless handling, aiding quick clips and reducing wear. 

• Ideal for sport climbing, this pack offers a balance between strength and simplicity.

Petzl's Sm'D locking carabiners

• Petzl's Sm'D locking carabiners epitomize versatility and security in a compact design. 

• Crafted with precision, these carabiners boast a lightweight yet robust construction, ideal for top rope anchors. 

• Their "H" profile ensures optimal strength-to-weight ratio, while the secure locking system provides confidence during belaying or anchoring. 

• The smooth, snag-free operation and ergonomic shape make them a reliable choice for climbers.

The Edelrid Mega Jul belay kit 

• The Edelrid Mega Jul belay kit stands out as an excellent belay device due to its intuitive design and enhanced safety features.

•  Engineered with versatility in mind, it accommodates various rope sizes, offering adaptability as climbers explore different techniques from top, to sport climbing and multipitch. 

• Its assisted braking technology provides added security during catches, instilling confidence for newcomers learning the intricacies of belaying.

The Edelrid Eco Boa rope

• The Edelrid Eco Boa rope represents a sustainable and reliable choice.

• Crafted from high-quality recycled materials, it combines durability with eco-conscious construction, reducing its environmental impact.

• With a versatile diameter suitable for various climbing styles, this dynamic rope offers a balance between robustness and manageability.

• Its smooth handling and excellent knotability make it an ideal rope for beginners, ensuring a safe and enjoyable climbing experience while supporting environmentally-friendly practices. This is the rope I own!

Bonus: Chalk bags!

• Any chalk bag will do! But a chalk bag should have a wide opening and enough room for a hand to reach in without the chalk spilling out everywhere.

• We really love all the 8Bplus chalk bags because of their fun and unique options, but also really like the chalk bags from Organic and Asana because of their sleek designs.

As you gear up for your own climbing adventures, keep in mind that these items also make fantastic gifts for the budding climber in your life. Whether it's a friend, family member, or colleague stepping into the world of climbing, the right gear can elevate their experience.

Visit Coeur Climbing today and surprise your fellow climbers with the gift of top-notch gear, ensuring their ascent in the climbing community is well-equipped!