Essential guides, gear care protocols, and foundational safety advice straight from our shop professionals.
Not all harnesses are built the same. Discover the critical differences between sport, trad, and alpine setups, and learn what safety features you must prioritize before making your first purchase.
Your lifeline requires respect. Learn the proper way to wash, inspect, and store dynamic ropes to maximize lifespan and ensure total safety on the wall.
Major axis, minor axis, open gate—what do the engraved numbers actually mean? We break down the load ratings of climbing hardware so you can rig anchors with absolute confidence.
The right gear is only half the equation. Developing solid routines minimizes risk. Adopt these non-negotiable checks into every single climb.
Never leave the ground without a visual and physical inspection of both climbers. Check the belay device orientation, the locking carabiner, the knot (trace the figure-eight), and ensure both harnesses are properly doubled back and tightened.
In climbing, one is none and two is one. Always build anchors with independent, equalized points. Never rely entirely on a single piece of protection or a single strand of sling when establishing a belay station.
Establish your commands before leaving the ground. Wind and distance can distort voices. Agree on rope tugs or standardized calls for "Take," "Slack," "Off Belay," and "Belay On" to eliminate fatal misunderstandings.
Looking for your next project? Our staff spends every day off exploring the surrounding crags and alpine faces. Whether you are seeking a sheltered sport wall for your first lead, or a demanding multi-pitch route that tests your endurance, we know exactly where you should rack up.
Stop by the shop to grab topo maps, check current weather conditions, and get beta from climbers who have recently been on the wall.
Unsure which cam sizes to double up on? Wondering if your current boots are compatible with semi-automatic crampons? Send our experts a message and we'll help you dial in your kit.