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.
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!
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
This piece was originally published on January 29, 2015.
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