Warm weather means summer rock climbing. Of course, depending on where and what type of climbing you do, you’ll probably switch up this list. Going bouldering? Leave the rope and quickdraws at home. Are you more of a trad climber? You’ll need to add a bit of additional gear. But here’s our recommended gear for a typical day of sport climbing.

GEAR UP

1. SHOES

An essential part of any climber’s gear is a good pair of shoes. There are a wide variety of climbing shoes intended for many different styles. Whatever you pick, get a comfortable pair that allows you to climb confidently.

2. HARNESS

You’ve got so many options to choose from. The two big things to keep in mind: 1) it fits well and 2) is comfortable. Other than that, it’s just about finding your favorite color.

3. ROPE

For most crags, a 60m rope will be sufficient. But check the guidebook to make sure that some of the routes don’t require something longer (70m or maybe even 80m). As far as the width is concerned, 9.6mm to 9.8mm is a good all-around size.

4. BELAY DEVICE

The two most common belay devices are the ATC or the GriGri. If you think you might need to do some rappelling or a multi-pitch, then the ATC is probably the way to go. But for a normal day of sport climbing most people will opt for the GriGri.

5. QUICKDRAWS

Roughly a dozen quickdraws should be good for most sport crags, but it’s good to check the guidebook ahead to time to see if you’ll need more. Bring a couple extra quickdraws up the route with you if your partner plans to top-rope the route as well.

6. CHALK BAG

A necessity for all climbers. Keep those hands nice and dry with a chalk bag.

7. WATER

It’s always a good idea to pack extra because if you find yourself in a sunny spot all day, you’ll consume more water than you thought you would.

8. TAPE

Some simple athletic tape comes in handy in case you need to tape a tweaked finger or to cover your hands for crack climbing.

9. MICRA®

A compact multi-tool like the Leatherman Micra® has all the essentials you need for a day at the sport crag. Cut some tape with the scissors, pull out a thorn or splinter with the tweezers, and even file down the rough edges of a fingernail.

10. SNACKS

Make sure you’ve got enough fuel to keep you going with some healthy snacks.

11. SUNSCREEN

When climbing a route in the sun, you might be on the wall longer than you think. Protect yourself with sunscreen and remember to reapply.

12. HELMET

When climbing or even when belaying, a helmet is always a good idea. Make sure it fits well and comfortably.

13. HEADLAMP

We all plan to be back at the car before sun sets, but things happen and you’re hiking out in the dark. A small headlamp can make this hike out way less of an epic adventure.

14. LIGHT JACKET

In case the weather turns south, having a lightweight windbreaker, hoodie or jacket you can throw on will make a big difference in your comfort level.

HEAD OUT

Use this list as a good starting place for getting your pack geared up for your next climbing trip. Remember to consult your local guidebook or the Mountain Project app to see if there are special pieces of climbing or general outdoor equipment that you might need to bring with you. Stay safe, and rock on!