Checklist for Trad Climbing

Rock climbing is a great way for outdoor adventurers to get up close and personal to the rock faces they intend to summit. Traditional climbing (also known as trad climbing) requires that the user place their protection into the rock face as they go. Here, the rock is typically devoid of fixed anchors and bolts and climbers must place removable protection as they climb. Due to this, traditional climbing emphasizes a climber’s adventure, risk, and self-sufficiency.

Trad climbers or groups of trad climbers will need to bring all of their gear with them along the route and remove it once they’ve completed their passage. Trad climbers typically value exploration with a strict dedication to leaving nature unblemished by avoiding use of older means of protection such as pitons, which damage the rock. Before you head out on your trad climbing adventure, be sure to run through our checklist to ensure that you’re equipped for the climb.

Click here  to download a printable PDF shopping list.

Trad Climbing Essentials

Because trad climbers must carry all of their gear - including protection points - along with them for the climb, their preparation checklist tends to dwarf sport climbing lists in general. The suitability of individual types of gear depends on the surface and formation of the rock face. ‘Placing gear’ denotes the act of setting a piece of gear into the rock face and then attaching the rope (via carabiner) before ascending higher. In the event of a fall, the gear acts as a catch-point for the rope, thus preventing the climber from hurtling to the ground.

Basic Gear

The basic gear you choose to take with you can vary depending on how long your route will take and how many days you plan to spend out on the rocks. Consider many of these basic items for your climbing excursion.

Clothing/Attire

Clothing can vary drastically depending on conditions, but there are specific items that you’ll want to keep in mind when it comes to personal attire. Remember that it’s always a good idea to dress in layers, especially if you’ll be climbing through large swings in elevation or for more than a few hours, as dusk and dawn can bring with it large temperature fluctuations.

First Aid and Emergency

Scrapes and bumps are commonplace when it comes to rock climbing, but more serious falls and accidents can always occur. Be sure to stock your bags to handle any emergency, and always  leave your trip itinerary with a friend as well as in your vehicle (under your car seat) in case you become disoriented, lost, or injured. In this manner, not only will your friends have your information, but emergency personnel can also have quick access to documents should they come across your vehicle.