Climbing Gear on A Budget:

Starting climbing can feel so exciting — but it can also get expensive fast. Gym membership, initiation fees, shoes, chalk, harness, pants… suddenly it feels like you need everything all at once. The truth? You don’t.

You can start climbing comfortably and confidently without spending a ton of money right off the bat. This post I've created gives you budget-friendly climbing gear that’s reliable, beginner-approved, and easy to find!

When I first started climbing at the gym, I didn’t have the money to buy climbing shoes right away, so I used rental shoes for my first month of climbing. They definitely gave gumby vibes, and I quickly understood why investing in climbing shoes is worth it. That said, you really don’t need the best climbing shoes right off the bat.

• Controversial opinion: I actually think starting in basic shoes can make you a better climber.

I’m a strong believer that technique goes much farther than really expensive shoes and gear. At some point, aggressive shoes and a tighter fit can absolutely help, but during your first few months, your focus should be on learning movement, footwork, and body positioning. Expensive shoes won’t replace good technique.

So, here are some helpful tips for building your climbing kit on a budget:

Budget-Friendly Climbing Shoes:

Shoes should be the first thing you get because although you can use rental shoes with easy climbs, you're going to want to start getting other climbing shoes when you start learning different movements, walking on volumes, climbing slab, etc. But this doesn't mean to get the most expensive and aggressive shoes right away.

Wait a bit and make sure this is a hobby you want to invest money into:

Shoes I Recommend Starting Off:

• La Sportiva Tarantula (~$99) Comfortable, neutral, and great for gym climbing.

• Black Diamond Momentum Lace (~$99) Breathable, adjustable, and beginner-friendly.

• Black Diamond Momentum Velcro (~$99) Easy on/off and perfect for indoor sessions.

Tip: Prioritize comfort and fit in the beginning.

Chalk: Simple and Affordable

You don’t need premium chalk when you’re starting out.

Solid Budget Options:

• Metolius Super Chalk (~$5–6)

• Black Diamond White Gold (~$16)

• FrictionLabs Chalk (~$9–10 for small bag). *My personal favorite is Gorilla Grip!

Loose chalk works just fine for most gym climbers.

I personally am not a huge fan of liquid chalk by itself. If I use liquid chalk, I put it on, let it dry, then use loose chalk over it.

Tip: Some climbing gyms only allow liquid chalk!

Affordable Climbing Pants

Honestly, this isn't the most important topic. I just found it so difficult when I was starting out to find climbing pants that were recommended. And honestly, you don’t need pants labeled “climbing”; just make sure they stretch, are comfortable, and durable.

Budget-Friendly Picks:

• Prana Stretch Zion Pants 

• Black Diamond Dirtbag Pants

• Black Diamond Notion Pants

  
  

Look for fabrics that are flexible and allow for freedom of movement. Leggings are also great, I just found that they get holes more quickly than I'd like. The first couple of months of me climbing, I went through 4 pairs of leggings, so I made the decision to get better climbing pants, and they've lasted me much longer.

Climbing is already such an amazing way of exercise, but it is expensive. Your gear doesn’t need to add more expenses. Starting with simple, affordable essentials lets you focus on learning, having fun, and building confidence.

You can always upgrade later. Strong climbers aren’t made by expensive gear; they’re made by training and showing up to the gym.

Welp, that's about it for this post! I hope this helps you and your climbing journey. If you have any questions, write them in the comments section, and I will be sure to answer any questions you have!

Happy climbing !: )