For first time climbers why is a flat sole more recommended?
For first time climbers, flat-soled shoes are more comfortable, will help develop toe and foot strength, and make it easier to transition to a slightly or very downturn shoe once they start climbing more challenging terrain. Transcript: "First time climbers enjoy wearing a flat sole shoe because it is more like the regular shoes that they're wearing. So that means if you put them in a very tight-fitting downturn shoe they're going to be extremely uncomfortable and then they're not going to use their feet very well. The other thing about a flat sole shoe is that you get to develop your toe strength and foot strength when you're standing on holds. A lot of folks don't like to make that initial transition with a very downturned shoe on it. So bottom line is a flat sole is going to be an easier transition for someone who hasn't climbed before. It's going to be more comfortable, they're going to be able to keep the shoe on longer, and they're going to be able to improve their footwork. Once they start changing the terrain that they're climbing on and it gets a little bit more overhanging, they will see the benefit of having a slightly or very downturned shoe."
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For first time climbers why is a flat sole more recommended?
For first time climbers, flat-soled shoes are more comfortable, will help develop toe and foot strength, and make it easier to transition to a slightly or very downturn shoe once they start climbing more challenging terrain.
My fingers get cold while I’m rockclimbing. Can you suggest something to help that?
Try reframing cold as warm, do things with cold hands, or use handwarmers and heated rocks to keep your hands warm while climbing.
Why buy passive pro when active pro (like spring loaded camming devices) are so secure and easy to place?
When climbing, I like to carry a combination of passive Pro and active Pro so that I can access up the wall and protect the route safely. It also allows me to leave behind an anchor piece if needed, as passive Pro is significantly cheaper and works just as well when rappelling off.
What are the best kind of pants to wear rock climbing?
I'm looking for a technical pant that is nylon, windproof, abrasion-resistant, with a reinforced knee and ankle area, a belt with a buckle, and one pocket over the thigh.
How many years should you keep your equipment like a harness? To be safe?
Check with the manufacturer for specific advice, but typically it is safest to retire a harness after 10 years of use or if it looks worn out.
What are your biggest deal breakers when trying on climbing shoes?
My biggest deal breakers when it comes to trying on climbing shoes are a sloppy heel, an ill-fitted toe box, an inability to securely tighten the shoe, and a slipper that is too loose.