What to Wear for Indoor Rock Climbing

Indoor rock climbing has become a popular activity for both experienced climbers and beginners looking to try something new. With climbing gyms popping up in more and more cities, deciding what to wear for your indoor climbing session is an important first step. In this blog post, I’ll break down the key factors to consider and provide specific clothing recommendations to help you feel comfortable and perform your best on the wall.

Clothing Material 

The most important consideration for indoor climbing clothes is choosing fabrics that allow for full range of motion. Tight-fitting synthetic or cotton blends that stretch in all directions will serve you much better than loose, non-stretchy fabrics. Look for pants and shirts made from materials like polyester, spandex, or elastane that move with your body. Avoid anything too baggy or constricting as you reach, twist and grip the holds on the wall.

Breathability is a bonus

In addition to stretch, breathable fabrics help wick moisture away from your skin to keep you feeling dry as your body heats up during a climbing session. Many synthetic blends are designed to be breathable as well as stretchy. Cotton can absorb sweat instead of moving it away from your skin, so opt for technical fabrics when possible.

Layer for temperature control 

Indoor climbing gyms tend to be a bit warmer than outside temperatures due to body heat from other climbers. Consider starting with a lightweight base layer and adding or removing layers as needed to regulate your temperature. Having removable layers allows you to adjust to how hard you’re working on each route.

Bottom Layer: Pants Tight-fitting pants or leggings 

Pants made from stretchy, breathable fabrics will allow full mobility on the wall. Go with tight-fitting pants or leggings that won’t slip down as you climb. Avoid anything loose, baggy or with extra material that could get caught on holds.

Consider pants with reinforced knees 

Pants made specifically for climbing often have reinforced knees to protect this high-friction area from abrasions. Kneepads are another option if your pants don’t have reinforced knees.

Middle Layer: Shirt 

Just like pants, opt for a form-fitting shirt made from technical fabrics that wick moisture and allow unrestricted movement. Crewneck or v-neck styles work well.

Long or short sleeves

Personal preference will dictate long vs short sleeves. Long sleeves protect your arms from abrasions on textured holds, but short sleeves may be cooler. Consider the temperature in your gym.

Outer Layer: Jacket 

Most gyms maintain a slightly warmer temperature than outside. Having an extra layer allows you to regulate your temperature as you warm up. Look for a lightweight zip-up or pullover made from quick-drying fabrics.

Accessories and Gear Climbing shoes 

Climbing shoes are essential indoor climbing gear for maximum toe and foot sensitivity on small holds. Rent or bring your own well-fitting pair.

Grips or chalk Chalk or liquid chalk grips allow you to maintain hold of textured holds. Bring your own chalk bag.

Hair tie 

Secure long hair back to avoid it getting in your face as you climb.

Water bottle 

Staying hydrated is important. Bring a filled water bottle.

Towel 

Bring a small towel to wipe sweat as needed.

That covers the key factors to consider for your indoor climbing clothes. Focus on breathable, stretchy fabrics that won’t restrict your movement on the wall. Layer appropriately and bring any needed accessories like shoes, chalk or a jacket. Dressing properly sets you up for an enjoyable indoor rock climbing session. Let me know if you have any other questions!

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