Short answer: wear a light, breathable t-shirt that lets your arms move freely, pants or shorts with stretch that let you lift your knee to your chest, and climbing shoes. Skip anything baggy enough to catch on holds, and anything you'd hate to get chalk on.
What to wear rock climbing at the gym
Indoor climbing is warm and sweaty, so think gym clothes with a little more freedom of movement.
- Top: a lightweight t-shirt or tank. Cotton-poly blends breathe well and dry faster than 100% cotton.
- Bottoms: stretchy climbing pants, joggers, or athletic shorts. Test it: if you can't do a deep high step, pick something else.
- Shoes: rent climbing shoes at the gym for your first few sessions.
- Skip: jewelry, rings, and long loose drawstrings.
What to wear bouldering
Bouldering means short, powerful problems, lots of falling onto pads, and lots of chalk. Wear the same light top as the gym, but favor pants over shorts: they protect your knees on kneebars and when you slide down the wall. Pick colors that hide chalk, like brown, olive, or charcoal.
What to wear rock climbing outside
Outdoor rock is rougher and the weather changes fast, especially in the desert.
- Layers: a t-shirt for climbing, plus a light hoodie or puffy for belaying and the walk out.
- Durable pants: sandstone and granite will shred thin fabric.
- Sun: a hat and sun shirt for hot exposed walls. In Southern Utah, chase shade in summer and sun in winter.
- Approach shoes: sticky-rubber shoes for the hike in and scrambling to the base.
FAQ
Can I wear a cotton t-shirt rock climbing?
Yes. Plenty of climbers do. A cotton-poly blend is a step up because it breathes better and dries faster, which helps on hot days and long sessions.
Should I wear shorts or pants climbing?
Shorts are fine for easy gym routes. Pants are better for bouldering and outdoor climbing because they protect your knees and shins.
What should I not wear rock climbing?
Avoid jeans without stretch, baggy clothes that hide your feet, jewelry, and anything with long loose cords.
What do I need for my first climbing gym visit?
Comfortable athletic clothes and a water bottle. The gym will rent you shoes, a harness, and chalk.
Looking for a climbing shirt that handles all of it? Check out our climbing t-shirts, designed in Southern Utah.