The popularity of mountain climbing has gone sky-high in recent years. If you want to get into this sport you will need the proper rock climbing gear to ensure a safe, fun and comfortable experience whether you're at your local rock climbing wall or mountaineering the back country. Gear such as climbing shoes and rock climbing rope must be top notch because of the risk level of this adventurous sport. Your encounter on the wall or mountain will depend not only on the weather and the person you are climbing with; it will also depend on the gear you have with you during the climb.

Top notch rock climbing gear is designed to be durable, strong and lightweight. The basic gear that you will need includes climbing shoes or boots, helmet, headlamp, gloves, rock climbing rope, harnesses, racks, belay devices, locking carabiner, saxes, belay devices, descenders, ascenders, protection devices, sewn runners, climbing screws, pulleys, a trekking pole, a mountaineering shaft, pitons, haul bag, bouldering mat and holds. It is also advisable to purchase books and maps if you are mountaineering outdoors, as well as special pants and underwear for rugged conditions and extreme weather.

Some additional rock climbing gear that you will need for longer outdoor mountain climbing trips includes food, water, specially designed sunglasses, first aid kit, sun block, extra clothing/shoes, camera, tent, cookware, camp stove, sleeping bag, pad, knife, chalk and a chalk bag. There are obviously many different items that you will need for an overnight trip so it is important to pack carefully. All of your rock climbing gear will need to be carried on your back in a special backpack that is designed to hold most of the essential things.

There are many finer brands that are known for rock climbing gear and clothing, such as Metolius, Black Diamond, BlueWater, Mammut, Omega Pacific, DMM, Yates Gear, Five Ten, Petzl, Trango and more. All of this gear and more can be found online so you can get out there and start climbing.