What to wear climbing? If you’re planning to go rock climbing, it’s important to know what to wear rock climbing indoors and climbing outdoors, to ensure your comfort and safety.
Climbing involves physical activity, so it’s best to wear comfortable and breathable clothing. It is not advisable to show up to a climbing gym in slippers or pajamas.
Gym clothes are a good option, as they are designed for exercise and allow for maximum mobility. Since climbing involves some exercise, you should probably be prepared if you’ve got gym clothes.

Indoor rock climbing needs less climbing gear than outdoor climbing due to the absence of loose rocks. A great way to challenge yourself and get a workout is through indoor rock climbing.
Gyms encourage you to carry an additional rope if you are lead climbing.
The purpose of this guide is to give you a better sense of what you ought to wear rock climbing indoors and outdoor climbing.
The most important lesson is to dress in whatever you feel most comfortable in when climbing. You are the authority on your physical well-being, after all!
- So what to wear climbing: recommendations
- Climbing shoe
- Athletic pants or shorts
- Moisture-wicking shirt
- Climbing harness
- Chalk bag
- Helmet
- Fingerless gloves
- What should I wear indoor rock climbing?
- What can you wear indoor rock climbing?
- The best tops to wear indoor rock climbing
- Women’s rock climbing outfit
- Can you rock climb in jeans?
- What kind of pants do you wear to rock climbing?
- What should girls wear climbing?
- FAQ
- Is it safe to wear headphones while climbing?
- Is it necessary to wear gloves while rock climbing?
- What rock climbing shoes are the best?
- Should you wear socks with climbing shoes?
- How do I style my hair for rock climbing?
- Conclusion
So what to wear climbing: recommendations
When rock climbing, it’s important to wear comfortable and flexible clothing that allows for a wide range of movement.
You are only required to bring clothing if you have a reservation for an introduction, tester session, or course. Typically, climbing gear such as belay devices, chalk, and harnesses is given.
Here are some recommendations for what to wear.

Climbing shoe
These are specialized rock climbing shoes designed to provide grip and support while climbing. They should fit snugly but not be too tight.
Athletic pants or shorts
Look for pants or shorts made from stretchy, breathable fabric that allows for freedom of movement and also ensures their length is sufficient to cover the space beneath the leg loops.
Moisture-wicking shirt
Choose a lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt to keep you dry and comfortable while climbing.

Climbing harness
A harness is essential for safety when climbing. Make sure it fits properly and is comfortable to wear. Additionally, tighten the leg loops.
Chalk bag
Many climbers use chalk to keep their hands dry and improve grip. A chalk bag can be attached to your harness for easy access.
Helmet
Safety is paramount in rock climbing, so wearing a helmet is highly recommended to protect against head injuries.

Fingerless gloves
Some climbers prefer to wear fingerless gloves to protect their hands while still maintaining a good grip on the rock.
It’s also important to consider the weather and conditions of the climbing area when choosing your clothing. Dress in layers if it’s cold, and bring extra clothing in case the weather changes.
Always remember to follow any specific dress code or safety guidelines provided by the climbing facility or outdoor area when climbing outdoors.

What should I wear indoor rock climbing?
To make the most of your indoor rock climbing gym experience, it’s important to choose clothing that allows you to move freely and comfortably to wear indoor rock climbing.

Opt for clothes that are neither tight nor loose and won’t restrict your movement or get caught on any climbing equipment.
Leggings or athletic pants paired with a moisture-wicking shirt are great choices for rock climbing gym. You can wear a sports bra or a T-shirt, along with either long pants or three-quarter pants.
Shorts are also fantastic, but watch out for cuts. Wearing shorts while indoor climbing is a wise choice during the warmer seasons.
It’s also essential to wear a comfortable pair of climbing shoes that will provide you with the support and grip you need to wear indoor rock climbing.
Don’t forget to bring your chalk bag to help keep your hands dry. By choosing the right clothing and equipment, you’ll be able to focus on your climb and achieve your goals.
Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing instead of a jacket or sun hat is one of the best things about climbing indoors; you won’t be concerned about dressing for bad weather.

What can you wear indoor rock climbing?
When it comes to indoor rock climbing, it’s important to wear comfortable, flexible clothing that allows for a full range of motion.
You’ll find that dressing appropriately for indoor rock climbing is a breeze, as the indoor climbing walls are enclosed and protected from outside elements, allowing you to choose an outfit you feel comfortable and unrestricted in.
Many climbers opt for moisture-wicking materials, such as synthetic blends or merino wool, to help keep them dry and comfortable during exertion.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to wear close-fitting shoes with a sticky rubber sole to provide maximum grip and stability on the climbing wall.
Some climbers also like to wear chalk bags around their waists to keep their hands dry and improve their grip.

The best tops to wear indoor rock climbing
- Moisture-wicking tank tops: these tops are designed to keep you dry and comfortable while climbing, and they allow for a full range of motion.
- Fitted long-sleeve shirts: long-sleeve shirts can provide extra protection for your arms while climbing, and a fitted style will prevent any excess fabric from getting in the way.
- Rock climbing tops: many outdoor and athletic brands offer tops specifically designed for rock climbing, with features like reinforced shoulders and stretchy, durable fabric.
- Breathable T-shirts: a lightweight, breathable T-shirt is great for indoor climbing, as it allows for easy movement and helps keep you cool during intense climbs.

Women’s rock climbing outfit
Types of tops to wear include tank tops, crop tops, sports bras, and cotton shirts.
Bottoms include yoga pants, leggings, and hiking pants for the lower body.

Can you rock climb in jeans?
While it is possible to wear jeans rock climbing, it is not recommended. Jeans are typically made from heavy and non-stretchy material, which can restrict your movement and make it difficult to climb especially if you want to climb outdoors.
To comfortably complete your job, invest in a pair of flexible, breathable pants, such as Black Diamond’s climbing jeans.
In addition, jeans are not designed to provide grip or support on the rock. It’s best to wear clothing specifically designed for climbing gym, such as athletic pants or shorts made from stretchy and breathable fabric.

What kind of pants do you wear to rock climbing?
When it comes to rock climbing, it’s important to wear pants that provide both comfort and flexibility. Many climbers opt for pants made from stretchy and durable materials such as nylon or polyester.
Some popular brands for climbing pants include Prana, Patagonia, and Black Diamond. Look for pants with articulated knees, gusseted crotches, and a slim fit to ensure maximum mobility on the rock.
For this initial experience, shorts or yoga pants are ideal. When it comes to rigorous training, shorts that are somewhat above the knee work well.
Select clothing that provides some level of protection, such as capris or three-quarter lengths, as you’re likely to be bashing your shins and scraping your knee along the wall quite a bit.

What should girls wear climbing?
When it comes to climbing, girls should wear clothing that is comfortable, flexible, and allows for a full range of motion. Climbing pants or shorts made from stretchy and breathable fabric are a good option, as is a lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt.
It’s also important to consider wearing a properly fitting climbing harness for safety and a helmet to protect against head injuries.
Additionally, some girls may prefer to wear fingerless gloves to protect their hands while maintaining a good grip on the rock.
Additionally, a supportive sports bra and comfortable, moisture-wicking top are also important for girls when climbing. Overall, the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident while climbing.

FAQ
Is it safe to wear headphones while climbing?
Wearing headphones while climbing can be dangerous, as it can distract you from your surroundings and potential hazards.
It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to communicate with your climbing partners, and wearing headphones can hinder that.
Additionally, wearing headphones can prevent you from hearing important safety instructions or warnings from others around you when climbing outdoors.
Due to potential safety risks, several climbing gyms forbid the wearing of headphones. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid wearing headphones while climbing.
Is it necessary to wear gloves while rock climbing?
It is not necessary to wear gloves while climbing, but many climbers choose to wear them for added protection and grip.
Gloves can help prevent blisters and calluses and protect your hands from sharp rocks and abrasive surfaces.
However, some climbers prefer not to wear gloves because they can decrease sensitivity and skill, making it harder to grip and climb.
Ultimately, whether or not to wear gloves is a personal choice and depends on the individual climber’s preferences and needs.
What rock climbing shoes are the best?
Climbing shoes are the backbone of any successful climb, empowering rock climbers to scale even the toughest peaks.
To find the best rock climbing shoes, consider factors such as the type of climbing, skill level, and personal preference.
Popular brands include La Sportiva, Scarpa, and Five Ten. Most indoor climbing gyms rent climbing shoes.
It’s important to try on multiple pairs and test them out on a climbing wall or rock face before purchasing to ensure the right fit.
Furthermore, gyms prohibit climbing shoes in restrooms due to the risk of spreading germs on climbing holds.
Should you wear socks with climbing shoes?
When it comes to wearing socks with climbing shoes, it’s entirely a matter of personal choice.
While some climbers prefer to go sockless for increased sensitivity and a better feel of the shoe, others believe that wearing socks can help prevent blisters and enhance overall comfort in rental shoes. But lots of individuals have worn and perspired in rental shoes.
It’s important to try both options and see what works best for you. Be confident in your choice and enjoy your climb!
How do I style my hair for rock climbing?
When considering how to style one’s hair for rock climbing, it is crucial to prioritize functionality and safety over fashion.
The primary objective is to ensure that one’s hair is out of the face and not at risk of becoming entangled in any equipment.
Opting for a simple ponytail or braid is often the safest choice. Additionally, the use of a headband or bandana can be useful in holding one’s hair securely back.
It is essential to note that the headband or bandana should not be too loose, as it may fall off during the climb.
Conclusion
With any luck, this post has inspired you to wear appropriate clothing for rock climbing. Recall that selecting climbing attire that you are comfortable with is the most crucial step.
While there are many alternatives if you’re looking to participate in climbing without making a significant financial investment, it’s fantastic if you choose to invest the money in specialized climbing apparel.
In the hopes that these insights and advice can help you, push yourself to improve every day on your climbing adventure!









