Ireland is the perfect place to trad-climb. From Donegal to Kerry and from Antrim to Dalkey there is plenty of terrain that will challenge even the most fearless climber. And trad- climbing is indeed for the fearless. Traditional climbing is a style for rock-climbing where the climber places footholds, bolts, cams, nuts and gear to protect against falls. So while sport climbing focuses more on the physical challenges there is also a mental challenge to trad climbing. This form of climbing means carrying and placing protection (chocks, camming devices, bolts etc) together with your usual gear. Trad climbers and their partners need to decide on a method of carrying this collection of climbing gear that works for both of them. We have a selection of light weight backpacks suitable for purpose.
If you are new to trad-climbing, it can be daunting and exciting in equal measure. Physically demanding and mentally challenging, this sport is not for the faint hearted, especially when you consider that a mistake can have very serious consequences. Most people begin with a climbing group and literally follow the more experienced climbers in ‘getting to know the ropes’. Get a good instructor and learn the basics slowly advancing as you go. Indoor climbing walls can hone the physicality and train the mind for the heights, but the greatest thrill is always in outdoor adventure.
The right equipment will help to ensure the best possible experience. We have compiled a list of trad-climbing essentials which will bring you warm and dry to the rock face and upwards. The rest is up to you.
Gear list for Trad- climbing:
Climbing Gear Basics
Hardware and protection quantities depend entirely on the route and climb itself, but this is a general list
- Rope
- Belay/rappel device
- Large locking carabiner for belay device
- Additional locking carabiners
- Non-locking carabiners
- Nuts
- Hexes
- Cams
- Nut extraction tool
- Gear sling
- Runners: singles (60cm) & doubles (120cm)
- Quickdraws
- Chalk
- Chalk bag
- Route map or guide
- Climbing pack, lightweight and waterproof
Personal Gear and clothing
- Rock climbing shoes
- Harness and Helmet
- Gloves Belay/rappel gloves
- Tape
- Sunglasses with the all- important retention strap
- Buff or scarf
- Sunscreen
- Compass
- Headlight (optional depending on route)
- Phone in protective bag
- Water bottle or treatment tablets.
- Food
- Water
- Base layer (for winter )
- Breathable/wicking T-shirt (summer)
- Shorts, pants,
- Rain jacket
- Rain pants or bibs
- Insulation (vest, jacket, pants, hat, gloves)
References:
https://www.mountaineering.ie/climbing/tradclimbing/