I won’t tell you that climbing isn’t a dangerous sport, because it’s true that it involves certain risks you must be aware of. Once you accept this, it’s essential that every time you hit the rock, you don’t push yourself too hard, know your limits, and above all, don’t get frustrated if you don’t reach your goal. Remember, the best climber is the one who has the most fun climbing, not the one who tackles the hardest grades.
Basic Recommendations
1. Perhaps the most important of all: climb with your head, thinking and using common sense.
2. Never grab the bolts
3. Don’t grab the rope, whether rappelling or during a fall
4. Trust your climbing partner, but always double-check that everything is in order
5. Tie a knot at the end of the rope
6. Don’t let the rope run between your legs
Pay Special Attention to Your Gear
Let’s say climbing equipment is practically your life insurance, so don’t overlook a single detail, whether when buying it or maintaining it. Additionally, it’s essential to inspect it regularly over time, as ageing leads to wear and tear and, consequently, a loss of reliability.
Helmet
Many people, for reasons unknown, choose not to wear a helmet. Well, let me tell you: it’s fundamental protection, as necessary as breathing. When buying one, make sure it’s very comfortable to wear and fits snugly.
It won’t just protect you in case of a fall—during the climb, there may be loose rocks of varying sizes, and the helmet will prevent head injuries. It’s also crucial that partners at the base of the route wear one to avoid any impacts.
Expanded polyethylene helmets absorb impacts better, so I recommend them over polycarbonate ones (even though the latter are cheaper).
Rope
Another basic element of your safety. Depending on the manufacturer, thickness can range from 9 mm to 11 mm, and they’re dynamic ropes made of polyamide. Generally, the thinner the rope, the more elastic it is, but conversely, it has a shorter lifespan.
Speaking of elasticity, the more elastic your rope, the better it will cushion a fall. As the rope ages, it loses this quality, and if you fall, it’ll feel like hanging from a steel cable, which can cause serious back injuries.
Regarding length, aim for around 70 metres, and it’s advisable to mark the midpoint to keep track of how much rope is left, especially if you’re lowering a partner.
A rope’s lifespan depends mainly on two things: how often you use it, logically, and how well you care for it—avoid leaving it on the ground, keep it away from dusty areas, store it properly in its dedicated bag... If you notice signs of fraying or widening, don’t hesitate to replace it.
Be very careful when buying a new rope, as it runs quickly through any belay device.
Harness
It keeps you attached to the rope, and the key when choosing one is comfort—it should fit your body snugly without constricting, matching your size.
The most critical part of the harness is the belay loop: the area where the rope runs at all times. Stay vigilant and ensure it’s in perfect condition.
Quickdraws
Their primary purpose is to connect the rope to the rock anchors, so to avoid issues, opt for sewn quickdraws that are somewhat long—the longer they are, the less rope friction. Short ones are only recommended for very difficult points and only if a ground fall is possible, like on the first or second anchor.
Regarding carabiners, it’s best to buy sturdy ones with high resistance when the gate is open. Wire-gate carabiners are less likely to open from vibrations during a fall, but be cautious—they can still open.
To maintain carabiners, occasionally disassemble the quickdraws and oil the gates, wiping off excess. If you notice significant wear, discard them, as they could cut the rope in a critical moment.
Belay Device
This is another key element, as it connects the rope, the climber, and the belayer at the base. It not only controls the rope but also stops the climber if they fall.
Though manual devices exist, an automatic one is far safer, as it instantly locks the rope during a fall, whether the belayer is paying attention or not.
Belay Carabiner
This links the belay device to the harness and sits on the belay loop. It must have a locking mechanism, preferably automatic, to avoid human error. Check it periodically, as the carabiner can rotate horizontally, reducing its resistance in a fall.
Footwear
Always wear climbing shoes for climbing, and for belaying, use protected, closed, and comfortable footwear; never belay in flip-flops.
Other Safety Factors to Consider
Don’t overlook external risks like falling rocks, broken holds, animals (e.g., goats) causing rockfalls, or the condition of anchors. That’s why it’s vital to stay alert at all times and maintain constant communication with your partner.
Oh! And don’t forget—the summit is only halfway!
