Rock climbing, in all its forms, is inherently dangerous. At The Stronghold, we teach and recommend methods upheld as best practices by the American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) and various other global climbing organizations. These methods, along with repeated and habitual safety checks and other forms of protection used while climbing, can mitigate but not eliminate the risk inherent in this sport. We strongly recommend taking our classes or learning from certified instructors in order to explore this sport in the safest way possible.

The gear you’ll need depends on what type of climbing you’ll be doing. If you’re bouldering, for example, you will only need climbing shoes. If you are using our autobelays, you’ll also need a harness. Many prefer to use chalk, as well; chalk absorbs any sweat or natural oils in our hands, allowing us to grip holds more easily.

Our rental package includes shoes, a harness, and chalk for $6 per person, although you may rent everything individually if needed.

You may use your regular shoes if that is your preference, but we do recommend climbing shoes. They are shaped to allow you to put pressure onto small holds, and the fit is generally more snug.

To climb using the ropes at our gym, you need to take a belay test with one of our staff members. If you belay safely and properly, you may use the ropes (either top rope or lead, depending on which test you take). All tests must be completed using a tube-style belay device without assisted braking features. Once you pass the test, you may use the belay device of your choice.

If you are not ready to take the test, you may practice belaying with an autobelay backup. In other words, your climber must clip into an autobelay in addition to tying into the rope.

If you have never belayed before, we highly recommend taking our Intro to Rope Climbing class, which will teach you everything you need to know in 90 minutes! Poor technique can have catastrophic consequences, so don’t hesitate to learn from the best!

If your partner is belay-certified at The Stronghold, they can belay you, even if you are not certified yourself. You just won’t be able to return the favor just yet!