Kids Gear

The Kids Gear section is a list of links to gear that is sorted into Helmets, Harnesses and Rock boots.

The harnesses section is split into full and sit/chest. Full harnesses are more appropriate for kids with little hip definition as this means they are less likely to slip out of the harness. You can approximate the same thing by buying an adjustable sit/chest harness combination which may be more expensive intially but more cost effective in the long run.

Choose one of the links in the menu to go to the gear you're interested in. These lists are restricted to where you find kids climbing gear in the UK only and are occasionaly updated. Rock boots and particularly harnesses should be suitable for the height and weight of the child, so don't just buy hoping they will fit. If you have a local supplier, bring your child to try them out first.

If your child is younger/older/bigger/smaller, by going to these sites you may find other gear that might be appropriate.

We have a Reviews section - contact me if you can write a short review of any of the gear featured. Thanks!

You may find this rock climbing gear buying guide useful.

You can find gear on sites in Europe and the States, but I've chosen to show only those available in the UK because of potential language/shipping difficulties. If you would like to see listings of kids gear in other locations, please contact me. I found a search on Shopzilla and Bizrate of American equipment and suppliers.

Renting versus Buying and a Compromise

Renting
Of course you don't have to buy your child's gear, you could rent it every session at your local wall. This has the advantage that if they lose interest, you're not out of pocket, also you get some experience of what works and what doesn't. It can end up being very expensive in the long run though.

Buying
Buying gear is relatively more expensive in the short run, but a rental of £5 per session soon mounts up and brand new gear is quite reasonably priced for kids. The down side is that kids have a tendency to inflate at an alarming rate, and soon outgrow any item of clothing you buy for them. A good tip is to buy one size too big and have the child wear a pair of socks to make a good fit, then remove the socks as they grow into the boots.

Compromise
A compromise is to try to find second hand gear, which for kids should be in very good condition as they usually outgrow before they wear out any equipment (especially rock boots). You could ask at your local wall or stick a postcard on the noticeboard.

WARNING! As with all safety equipment, buying secondhand does not guarantee that the equipment has been tested for safety, even if it looks brand new. This particularly goes for helmets, harnesses and ropes. Remember the life you risk when buying second hand is your child's!