Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

Outdoor Activities => Climbing => Topic started by: jonnycrutchley on September 16, 2012

Title: Getting started
Post by: jonnycrutchley on September 16, 2012
Hello folks, been a while since I've posted anything...

I'm looking to start into a spot of rock climbing but I don't have any equipment and was wondering if someone could provide me with a wish/bucket list of harness's rope etc etc. 
Oh and any simple places up the north coast direction where one could practise. 

Thanks as always
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: LandyLiam on September 17, 2012
I think this is one of those things that if you have to ask, then maybe you shouldn't be doing it, yor life WILL depend on this gear ;) . Best go to shop for professional advice, if buying second hand off ebay etc. then you really should know what your getting, if it breaks, you fall  :o  I've already wasted money on second hand gear that I won't use now I know a bit more, learn from my mistakes  :)  If you're going to a climbing wall then you can probably hire gear out, get to know what you like then buy your own. I've seen a few people rush out and buy a new harness only to find its not the right one for them.

You won't be going rock climbing alone, and you're partner MUST know what they're doing, so you would expect them to have a decent set of nuts, cams, ropes, etc. So you should really only need a harness and helmet at first.
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: jonnycrutchley on September 17, 2012
I thought that about buying second hand gear. I do value my life and wouldn't want to do something that would put it at a higher risk that normal.

No climbing walls near me but will look into smaller and easier climbs near to me.

Thanks
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: LandyLiam on September 17, 2012
I think the problem with 2nd hand gear is knowing the history of it and whether it has taken any falls or has it been stored correctly, ex centre gear will have had a lot of use, but should have been well stored, private gear may have little use but could have been stored in the bottom of a damp bag for months.



Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: LennyJ1 on September 17, 2012
I thought that about buying second hand gear. I do value my life and wouldn't want to do something that would put it at a higher risk that normal.

No climbing walls near me but will look into smaller and easier climbs near to me.

Thanks

If my memory serves me correctly there is a mini climbing (more bouldering) wall in Derry/Londonderry. It is a squash court converted. its in the bog side.
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: jonnycrutchley on September 17, 2012
Oh really?? Do you have an address or a contact for that place? That would be good fun
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: Mourneman on September 17, 2012
I think this is one of those things that if you have to ask, then maybe you shouldn't be doing it, yor life WILL depend on this gear ;) . Best go to shop for professional advice, if buying second hand off ebay etc. then you really should know what your getting, if it breaks, you fall  :o  I've already wasted money on second hand gear that I won't use now I know a bit more, learn from my mistakes  :)  If you're going to a climbing wall then you can probably hire gear out, get to know what you like then buy your own. I've seen a few people rush out and buy a new harness only to find its not the right one for them.

You won't be going rock climbing alone, and you're partner MUST know what they're doing, so you would expect them to have a decent set of nuts, cams, ropes, etc. So you should really only need a harness and helmet at first.

sorry but had to laugh( a decent set of nuts)  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: LandyLiam on September 17, 2012
that counts you out  :P  :D
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: Mourneman on September 17, 2012
that counts you out  :P  :D
you would know  ;)
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: FlapJack on September 17, 2012
There is a climbing club available the Colmcille Climbers, here is a link.
http://www.pete-smith.co.uk/

Also an indoor climbing wall at St Columb's Park.
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: LandyLiam on September 18, 2012
this mightn't be to far away
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=3650.0
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: jonnycrutchley on September 19, 2012
Everybody needs their nuts while climbing (in more ways than one).

I'll check out that link but i do think its a bit soon.

Thanks
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: LennyJ1 on September 19, 2012
If you can make it down to belfast I could run through some basics with you, I have shown some basics before to other people and they are still alive (I think  ;) )
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: jonnycrutchley on September 19, 2012
Aww that would be brilliant. I will be in touch to maybe arrange a short training session thanks
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: bigq on October 30, 2012
There's 2 local clubs:

 - the Colmcille Climbers http://www.pete-smith.co.uk/, a large group of highly experienced climbers. Check out their forum, there's indication they'll start beginner evenings at the wall.
 - the St Columbs Climbing wall club, a small bunch of mostly beginners, a few experienced climbers and an instructor. They meet on Wed evenings at 8.30. Not a true club ie no membership fee, etc. They are https://www.facebook.com/groups/490817774265138/

You'll not need any equipment, but if you have your own climbing shoes, you'll find it so much easier, and more enjoyable.
Best to purchase at an outdoor shop, so you can try they fit, before you buy.

Careful if you plan on going to this wall at other times. It's often booked by birthday parties / groups, so give St Columbs a ring before u go. 7134 3941.

I go on wed evenings, but I might start going twice a week.

Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: bigq on October 30, 2012
PS. Forgot to say, after Halloween, on wed nights, they're gonna start teaching the beginners some rope work, to prepare them for climbing outdoors next spring.
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: jonnycrutchley on October 30, 2012
That's so helpful. Thanks ill give them a ring and ask the obvious questions.