Flat-opening rope bag on a tarp, wide enough rucksack for a harness and quickdraws, chalk bag on a belt: our category covers bouldering gyms, crags and multi-pitch routes.
A climbing bag is chosen based on the terrain. In the gym and bouldering, a wide bag can fit shoes, harness and chalk bag without cramming anything. For outdoor climbing, the rope bag protects the rope from dirt thanks to its tarp. For multi-pitch climbing, a narrow and compressible bag is sought that doesn’t restrict movement.
A climbing backpack opens wide, often with a full flap or a U-shaped zipper, to access the harness without emptying it at the base of the route. In the gym, volume is key; you need to fit in shoes, brushes, and chalk. For multi-pitch climbing, it’s the opposite, a narrow bag, without a rigid frame, that can be worn as a second without getting caught on the rock.
The climbing rope bag opens flat on a tarp that keeps the rope isolated from dirt and sand, which is a primary cause of premature wear. Two straps mark the two ends, saving time at the belay and avoiding the end-of-day knot. This type of climbing bag can be carried as a backpack during the approach, with stowable straps included.
For indoor climbing, the chalk bag clips to the belt, and its bouldering version sits on the ground, being wider with a flat bottom. Store shoes in a separate and ventilated pocket, and lay the harness flat to avoid creasing the tie-in points. A climbing bag that’s well-compartmentalised prevents everything from spilling out at the foot of the route, which is important when the belay is tight.