Climbing is a complete sport that engages the whole body. When practising it, the choice of clothing is crucial. Ill-suited garments can genuinely hold back your progress and even expose climbers to certain risks. So what is the most suitable climbing outfit for each discipline?
What to wear for indoor climbing?
Climbing clothes should provide freedom of movement, comfort, durability and practicality. Avoid clothes that are too loose, stiff or prone to abrasion.
For indoor climbing, lightweight clothing is a good choice. Try breathable climbing T-shirts or vests. Look for technical fabrics containing polyester or elastane that wick sweat away. Cotton climbing clothes can also be an option for their comfort and durability.
If the gym is cold, you can opt for long-sleeve t-shirts that are supple and stretchy. In any case, go for a fitted cut — not too tight, not too loose. This has the advantage of not restricting movement and not catching on the holds.
For your lower half, you have several options. Climbing trousers are recommended for their technical cut and stretch fabric. They also protect your knees from rubbing against the wall. Technical leggings are popular for their stretch, while lightweight climbing shorts offer freedom of movement in summer.
Finally, think about choosing comfortable bottoms suited to wearing a harness for route climbing. Avoid rigid waistbands, poorly placed pockets or thick seams, which can all get in the way.
What to wear for outdoor climbing?
What you wear for outdoor climbing depends above all on the weather conditions. Climbers face wind, sun and abrasion against the rock. Clothing therefore needs to be versatile, robust and protective while always allowing good freedom of movement.
In the mountains or on multi-pitch routes, the three-layer principle is commonly applied. The base layer consists of a t-shirt or technical base layer. In summer, a lightweight t-shirt works well. In the shoulder season, a long-sleeve merino wool t-shirt is recommended.
Depending on the temperature, add a midlayer such as a technical fleece jacket. You can climb in it if it does not restrict your movement. Otherwise, keep it for cooler conditions, breaks or belaying.
Finally, bring an outer layer. In windy weather, put on a softshell jacket or a lightweight windbreaker; if showers are forecast, take a waterproof jacket.
To choose the right climbing trousers for outdoor use, look for a style that resists abrasion against rock. Choose stretch fabric with articulated knees for better protection from knocks and scratches.
Whether you climb in shorts or trousers depends on personal preference and the conditions of your outing. Climbers often favour shorts and leggings, but they offer less protection. Keep them for short outings, bouldering, accessible crags and rock that is not too abrasive.
What accessories do you need for climbing?
For safe climbing, certain accessories are essential. First, climbing shoes must be suited to your foot shape and level. Beginners will favour a comfortable pair, while more experienced climbers will prefer tighter shoes for greater precision.
Next, chalk—powder, chalk ball or liquid—absorbs sweat and improves your grip. For routes, you can carry it in a waist-worn chalk bag; for bouldering, use a bucket-style bag. You may also want a brush to clean the holds. For roped climbing, add a harness, belay device, carabiners, rope, gloves and belay sunglasses.
Outdoor climbing requires additional specific accessories. First, a helmet is essential on a cliff to protect you from rockfall or knocks against the rock. To protect yourself from the sun, bring a cap, sunglasses and sunscreen. In windy conditions, a buff is highly recommended.
To protect your rope, you can bring a tarp. If you're bouldering, don't forget your crash pad. For extra safety, it's also worth taking a first aid kit, a guidebook and a fully charged phone. If you're heading out for several hours, bring a snack and water too.
A climbing outfit must above all offer comfort and freedom of movement. Indoors or outdoors, your clothing must be suited to your discipline and personal preferences. That way, you can climb safely and make the most of every moment on the wall.
Photo credits: ©Julia Cassou
