2 Posts are tagged with: rock_climbing_gear

Into the Wild: Outdoor Movies, "Cliffhanger"

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Mar 2, 2009 by Momie T.

Looking for a new adventure? Get into the wild with outdoor movies. Movies with intense nature scenes can invoke that adventurous spirit and inspire us to explore new territory. Ever heard of the movie Cliffhanger with Sylvester Stallone?

In the movie Cliffhanger, Stallone's character does some serious mountain climbing to evade the villains. He uses amazing rock climbing skills to leap from cliff to cliff with ease. I'm not saying you should be leaping cliffs here, but perhaps you could try a little rock climbing. Whether you're normally the adventurous type or not, it could be interesting, as well as fun and exhilarating to learn a new skill such as rock climbing. The best bet for beginners is to take a class. Rock climbing is not a sport that you test out by yourself, and even if you're skilled, you'll still want to go in a group for safety purposes.

Just as in the movie, be sure you have the right gear. One thing that Stallone always has while rock climbing in Cliffhanger are trusty carabiners. Without carabiners, rock climbing would be quite dangerous, especially at the extremely high elevations Stallone faced in the movie. Key locking carabiners will help to secure a hold, making the climb safer. To get a good foothold, you also will want to wear the right footwear. Depending on the terrain, there will be a variety of choices. There are rock climbing shoes, as well as crampons.

Also needed, of course, will be a strong harness. Carabiners attach to these to secure the hold to the rocks. Other tools and accessories include an axe, a helmet, camming devices and gloves. The camming devices, along with the harness and carabiners, will help secure your position during climbing. Stability is very important in rock climbing.

Rock climbing can be quite an interesting to hobby to take on and is also a great way to exercise in a less mundane way than those daily workouts. Just remember to always be safe and follow the instructions of a professional. Also be sure to check with a doctor before starting or stopping any physical activities.

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Survival Gear: Rock Climbing Necessities

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Oct 28, 2008 by Sabah K.

So you wanna be a rock climbing superstar? Rock climbing will put your survival skills to the test when you head off to your overnight stay on those rocky hills, so rounding up the right gear is the first step to success. Whether you're trekking your route in Fort William or staking your claim to territory in the New River Gorge, here are some of the basics you'll need to survive the wilderness like a pro:

1. A water bottle-friendly pack. Stock up on H2O with a backpack that does double duty as a water bottle holder. The Keen Morrison collection is a convenient and durable choice. It's a pack made with 10 percent recycled aluminum hardware and a hollow core that keeps everything cool and well protected from the elements. The water bottle holder is within easy reach, so you can stash your stock of water for a few days' worth of climbing and hiking.

2. High performance goggles. When you're battling the sun, rain, wind and even snow on that adventurous climb, make sure you're protecting those eyes with a pair of quality goggles. The Anon Figment shades are made with a scratch-resistant coating and anti-fogging lenses that make it easier to battle the elements during your challenge.

3. Precision climbing shoes. You'll need some durable heels with extra traction and superior flexibility for maximum support, and there's no slipping and sliding to be had when you're wearing a Five Ten like the Anasazi Verde. These shoes are designed with a precision fit and rubber outsoles for maximum durability. Just make sure they're extra snug so you can maneuver up those rocky trails with ease.

4. Cushioned socks. Whether you're heading out on a brisk morning or venturing into a climbing event in the hot afternoon sun, a pair of cushioned socks that whip away moisture will keep you on your toes and safe for the climb. Pick up a pair of Wigmwam Pack Horse Socks that cradle and support your feet on even the steepest slope.

5. Bionic jacket. Whether you're hitting the Rockies or trekking around Fort William, a bionic jacket will keep that wicked wind at bay and give you a chance to brave the harsh weather - in style, of course. The North Face bionic jacket gives you a loose and comfortable fit with plenty of wind-blocking properties for extra protection.

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