Rock climbing gear can be very expensive, which makes it helpful to understand exactly what items you need for your skill level. This article will show you specific rock climbing gear that is necessary for certain types of climbing. The prices shown for climbing gear are from REI and are used to give you a general understanding of what a climbing rack might cost. The amount of gear for each rack is an estimate and will vary between routes and the type of climbing.

Beginner's Rack

A new rock climber will only need a few pieces of climbing gear that will allow him or her to get started. The most important items, which are not shown on this list, are a more experienced climbing partner and safety lessons at a local rock climbing gym. Remember, safety is always first! The following items will allow a beginner to rock climb with anyone that has a foundation rack.

• Rock climbing shoes: $85.95
• Rock climbing harness: $59.95
• Locking carabiner: $12.50
• Chalk bag: $18.95
• Chalk: $3.75
• Crash pad (optional): $139.95

The total estimated cost of a beginner's rack is $321.05 (sales tax not included). The crash pad is optional because it allows the beginner to practice bouldering as well.

Foundation Rack

An experienced rock climber will need all of the items from a beginner's rack, plus a few extra that will allow him or her to setup a top rope. The ability to setup a top rope, commonly referred to as TR, is a fundamental skill in rock climbing. Top roping is a little more complex because the climber needs to know how to properly build an anchor. The following items will allow an experienced rock climber to setup a top rope and build an anchor.

• Rock climbing rope: $169.95
• Carabiners (8): $48.80
• Cams (2): $139.00
• Nuts (set with sizes 4-13): $89.95
• Nut extraction tool with gate: $26.95
• Slings (2): $13.90
• Webbing (30 feet): $12.45
• Guidebook: $15.00

The total estimated cost of a foundation rack is $516.00 (sales tax not included). The overall price of this rack can vary depending on the size of the cams and nuts that you purchase. In general, it is often cheaper to purchase these items in sets rather than individually. The cams, nuts, and nut extraction tool are not required for TR routes with anchors already in place.

Lead Rack

An advanced rock climber will need all of the items mentioned above and some additional gear for leading routes. A rock climber can lead routes in either a sport or traditional climbing style. Lead climbing is a lot different than top roping and requires more skills and techniques. The following items will allow an advanced rock climber to lead climb any route.

• Quickdraws (set of 6): $92.95
• Small cams (set with sizes 00-4): $296.75
• Larger cams (7): $486.50
• Carabiners (28): $170.80
• Locking carabiners (3): $37.50
• Slings (4): $27.80
• Gear sling: $24.00