Listen up, first timers!

So, you’re tired of being grounded and want to get high? Mastering these 10 tips will turn any climbing gumby into a vertical ace who Tommy Caldwell himself would be proud to call his belayer.

multi-pitch climbing

Photo: Doctor Popular; Flickr Creative Commons

Tip #1: Find a solid partner

Do

Partner up with someone who seems experienced and that you are willing to put up with for an extended period of time. Then, and only then, plan your route.

Do not

Wing it with a Tinder date. They will NOT enjoy your presence after your climb, nor will search and rescue.

 

Related: On Being a Good Climbing Partner

 

Tip #2: Dial in your skills

Do

Learn rope and belaying techniques from experienced climbing instructors or a guiding service. Practice everything accordingly before you have someone’s life in your hands.

Do not

Learn rope and belaying techniques from homeboy at the gym.

 

Related: eBook — Rock Climbing Fundamentals: Essential Terms, Techniques, and Tips for the New Climbers

 

Tip #3: Dress right and stay hydrated

Do

Dress accordingly and bring lots of water. About a liter per half day is a good average; increase if climbing in hot or sunny conditions.

Do not

NOT drink said water … You may as well be carrying a brick up your climb.

 

Tip #4: Be prepared for the worst

Do

Either check the weather beforehand or have a good attitude when it starts to hail.

Do not

Expect to top out before the storm starts.

 

Related: What to Do When Weather Sucks on a Climbing Trip

 

Tip #5: Climb routes that make sense for you

Do

Lead pitches according to skill, experience, and fatigue. Map out who will lead which pitches, and be flexible to swap leads as necessary.

Do not

Attempt Mr. Caldwell’s 5.14 because you felt it was your turn to lead a pitch.

 

Related: Climbing Rope Management During Rappel

 

Tip #6: Be a generous follower

Do

Follow the unspoken rule that the current leader carries less weight and is the master of the universe.

Do not

Treat your second as a slave; they will get their revenge when you swap.

 

Tip #7: Take care of your bathroom business

Do

Force a bathroom run before the start of a climb. Bring a Wag Bag if you can’t hold it.

Do not

Pee on the belay ledge!

 

Related: 10 Common Mistakes New Big Wall Climbers Make

 

Tip #8: Wear the right climbing shoes

Do

Wear comfortable shoes that can be on your feet all day without your toenails falling off.

Do not

Bring your three pairs of downturned shoes clipped onto your harness. NO, it’s not cool; doesn’t matter if you saw Daniel Woods doing it.

 

Tip #9: Don’t climb choss

Do

Avoid loose rock, wet or mossy areas, and old manky gear.

Do not

Pull out GOOD pitons …

 

Tip #10: Get psyched

Do

Stay positive, have a good attitude, and have fun!

10909375425_078248e55b_b

Photo: Doctor Popular; Flickr Creative Commons

Bonus tip for multi-pitch rock climbing:

Do

Bring a headlamp.

Do not

Assume you will reach the top of your climb before dark.

Black Diamond’s Sprinter Rechargeable Headlamp

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This piece was originally published on January 29, 2015.


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