Mountain Climbing Gear - Invest in Quality, Not Quantity

By Jon Rose


Compared with many other sports, mountaineering does not require huge spending on gear and equipment. When it comes to scuba diving, for instance, you are no-where without an aqualung, weight belt, buoyancy compensator, air tank and mask. Yet for basic hill walking you can get away with little more than a good pair of shoes or boots and a decent outer layer to protect you from the weather.
Obviously as you start to undertake more demanding expeditions or climbs you have to start spending a bit more. But because this is a sport in which you carry everything you use, less if often better than more. Now it is quite easy to end up spending a small fortune on gear, especially since the stores are so full of enticing offerings. But if you have a modest budget you can still get out quite easily. The important thing is to focus on the quality of your gear, not the quantity, and get equipment that can serve many purposes. The first thing to think about is whether to buy new or second hand. Quite a few bits of gear can safely be bought second hand. Clothing and jackets can often be found at a reasonable price when bought used. Also look for army surplus gear. It may not be the coolest-looking or the latest fashion but it will often be perfectly good and functional.
There are, however, some items of gear that you do not want to buy second hand unless you are really expert or know exactly what their history is and you are buying them from someone you trust. By this I mean things such as climbing ropes and harnesses. It is difficult when examining them to know what damage they may have incurred. A big fall on a rope or harness can weaken it internally while leaving few visible signs on the surface. Yet it may fail at a crucial moment. Just remember that these are the items that you are trusting with your life. Consider buying an investment in your own safety and in the many years of enjoyment you hope to have.
You can read more about mountaineering rope and other gear at http://mountaineering-gear.blogspot.com/

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