What Gear is Actually Needed

The essentials versus the nice-to-haves, and how to handle gear for growing kids.

Reading time: 5 min•Updated: 2026

To start: almost nothing

For a first visit, comfortable clothes are enough. Gyms hire out shoes and harnesses, so there is no need to buy gear before your child knows they enjoy climbing.

Climbing shoes

  • Rent first - try several visits before buying
  • A snug but not painful fit; kids do not need aggressive downturned shoes
  • For growing feet, buy for now, not to "grow into" - shoes that are too big do not work
  • Flat, comfortable beginner shoes are ideal for young climbers

Harness

  • Rental harnesses are fine for a long time
  • Fit matters more than features - snug at the waist, sitting above the hips
  • For very young or slim children, a full-body harness can fit better than a sit harness

What you do not need yet

  • Your own rope or belay hardware - the gym provides what is needed
  • Fingerboards or training tools - not appropriate for children (see Ages & Stages)
  • Performance shoes, brushes, and other extras can wait until climbing is a regular habit

Buying for growing kids

  • Secondhand shoes (lightly used) and club gear-swaps stretch the budget
  • Re-check fit each season - feet change fast
  • Chalk is cheap and optional; liquid chalk is tidier for kids