As the Official Skills Course Partner of Mountain Training, we proudly support climbers in their Rock Skills courses, offering expert gear advice to elevate the climbing experience. 

Mountain Training Rock Skills courses empower you with independence and confidence while climbing outdoors. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate climber, learn how to choose the right gear, when you'll need it and how to use it, from expert leaders. Read on as we reveal our essentials for days spent on the wall.  

Choosing the right gear is crucial. Although brands design clothing for male and female body shapes, this doesn't mean a specific gender design will provide the perfect fit. We recommend trying a range of clothing to see which feels best for you.  

Plus, we've hand-picked our best budget and pro-performance options, so you can choose gear to suit your climbing goals and personal budget.

Need some guidance? Book an appointment at your nearest Snow+Rock store. Our experts will walk you through the specialist gear, clothing and accessories needed for your climbing.

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Below is a list of recommended gear for your Rock Skills course. While the course leader will likely lend you most gear, having your own set-up is the first step to becoming an independent climber. 

A well-fitted harness is vital for both safety and comfort. Look for a harness with ample padding and enough loops for your preferred style of climbing. Women's fit harnesses offer dimensions that are more comfortable for most women. 

Protecting your head is non-negotiable when climbing. Choose a climbing-specific helmet that fits well, provides comfort, and falls within your budget. Hardshell helmets are durable and affordable, while foam helmets offer lightness and comfort at a slightly higher price. 

Specialist rubber climbing shoes provide exceptional grip, enabling you to tackle even the tiniest footholds. Opt for snug-fitting shoes that balance comfort with performance. You can wear the same pair of shoes for indoor and outdoor climbing. 

Independent climbers must have a suitable belay device and know how to use it safely. Manual belay devices with an HMS carabiner offer versatility for trad climbing, while assisted braking devices provide extra security for sport climbers. 

Choose outdoor footwear with excellent grip for the approach to the climbing area. The shoes should provide stability and prevent slippage on the rock. If you need help finding the right fit, book a boot-fitting appointment with one of our experts at your nearest Snow+Rock store.  

As well as our core list above, make sure to gather these additional key pieces of gear:  

A small tote bag that clips onto a climber’s body. It contains chalk to help absorb moisture in hands while climbing. 

Also known as nut tools, these are used for removing gear – particularly on a climbing route. 

You’ll need a lightweight, breathable and fully waterproof shell jacket that packs away easily into your pack. 

Most climbers prefer to climb without gloves however, pack a lightweight pair to keep your hands warm and dry before and after your climb. 

A 30 - 40 litre capacity is a good size range to consider. However, the capacity is dependent on the amount of gear you have. So find a pack with all the right pockets for easy-access and book an appointment at Snow+Rock for a proper rucksack fitting. 

Your body temperature will fluctuate depending on if you’re climbing or taking a break so make sure you have a warm layer to chuck on during those stand-still moments.

If you're attending a Learn To Lead Sport course, as well as the Gear For Rock Skills Introduction or Intermediate course, the following list is essential to becoming an independent climber.

Carry 10-12 quickdraws, which should be sufficient for most introductory sport routes in the UK and Ireland. Opt for sport-specific draws or consider sets that work for both trad and sport climbing. 

While manual belay devices are safe for sport climbing, assisted braking devices offer an additional safety mechanism and greater comfort for the belayer. This is especially beneficial when the climber frequently sits on the rope while working a route.

Select a single rope with an appropriate length, at least double the length of the route you intend to climb. 60m is the most common length for sport climbing but adjust according to the routes you typically climb. 

Carry two extra screwgate carabiners for stripping a route after climbing. These carabiners should be climbing-specific and screwgate-type to prevent unexpected opening. 

Secure yourself at the top of a climb before lowering down with a 120cm sling or an adjustable lanyard. This offers versatility and comfort during the process. 

Essential for building a trad rack, the wires and nuts come in different sizes. Consider anodised sets for easier size selection or non-anodised sets for cost-effectiveness. Secure them using a racking snapgate carabiner. 

Start with sizes 1- 3 cams, which are commonly found on most trad climbs. Reputable brands offer safe options, and you can add more sizes to your rack as you progress. 

For wider cracks that won't accommodate small nuts, hexes or large wires are essential. Alternatively, you can opt for bigger nuts depending on your climbing style and the type of rock.