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Guide
Via Ferrata and Climbing Equipment
Climbing gyms, approaches and via ferratas need different equipment. Match footwear, clothing and packs to the discipline and follow safety-equipment instructions.
Key points
- DAV includes a lanyard, harness and helmet in basic via ferrata equipment.
- Climbing shoes and approach shoes serve different purposes.
- Try clothing with high steps and raised arms.
- Choose packs by trip and load; large packs are not a default requirement.
Which option suits your use?
| Use | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Climbing gym | ChooseSuitable climbing shoes: Climbing Shoes | WhyStart with a reasonably comfortable fit. Check toe box and heel rather than automatically sizing down. |
| Approaches | ChooseWalkable approach shoe: Approach & Via Ferrata Shoes | WhyCompare walking comfort and sole support for the entire approach and return. A pure climbing shoe does not replace it. |
| Freedom of movement | ChooseSuitable climbing trousers: Climbing Pants | WhyHigh steps, squats and hip movement should not pull at crotch or waistband. |
| Equipment for the outing | ChoosePack for the trip’s equipment: Climbing Backpacks | WhyA light daypack and a large transport pack serve different loads. Plan with your actual contents. |
What to look for when buying
| Question | In brief | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Which discipline? | In briefChoose equipment for the discipline | WhyVia ferrata, roped climbing and bouldering need different systems. Choose protective equipment by instructions and intended use. |
| What works together? | In briefMatch dimensions and approvals | WhyThe permitted rope diameter is marked on the belay device. Check it before you buy a rope. |
| How will you transport it? | In briefInclude contents and weight | WhyEquipment carried on the move needs different priorities from kit kept at a fixed location. Check packed size too. |
| How is it operated? | In briefCheck with your equipment | WhyFastenings, handles and openings should remain accessible. Try the combination under the conditions in which you will use it. |
Frequently asked questions
How do I check the fit?
Assemble items as you will use them. Check dimensions, access and operation with realistic contents. Try clothing and body-worn equipment together to avoid restriction or slipping.
Which maker specification helps when comparing?
La Sportiva lists a 2 mm EVA insert for the Boulder X. This describes a sole component, not approval for a particular route difficulty.
How do I compare different designs?
Compare versions intended for the same use. Dimensions, capacity, weight and weather protection describe different properties. Check interfaces and the complete setup with your existing equipment.
How do I care for it?
Follow the specific maker’s instructions. Different materials and electrical parts need different treatment. Clean and dry before storage, then check closures and visible damage.
Last updated: October 2026
Climbing gym
In the gym, climbing shoes should allow deliberate loading of holds without painfully squeezing the toes.
- Suitable climbing shoes
- Choose equipment for the discipline
- Include contents and weight
Approaches
For an approach, the walk before and after climbing matters as much as a short rocky section.
- Walkable approach shoe
- Choose equipment for the discipline
- Include contents and weight
Freedom of movement
With climbing trousers, try especially high steps and opening the hips sideways.
- Suitable climbing trousers
- Choose equipment for the discipline
- Include contents and weight
Equipment for the outing
With trip equipment, transporting a large load is different from carrying a small pack on the outing itself.
- Pack for the trip’s equipment
- Choose equipment for the discipline
- Include contents and weight
Brands we carry
- adidas Terrex
- AKU
- Asolo
- Bergans
- Berghaus
- Black Diamond
- C.A.M.P.
- Camelbak
- Carhartt
- Chillaz
- CMP
- Crazy
- Dachstein
- Dare2b
- Deuter
- Dolomite
- DU/ER
- Dynafit
- Edelrid
- Elevenate
- Exped
- Ferrino
- Five Ten
- Garmin
- Garmont
- Gregory
- Haglöfs
- Halti
- Hanwag
- Helly Hansen
- Houdini
- Isbjörn
- Karpos
- Klättermusen
- Kohla
- La Sportiva
- Lowa
- Lundhags
- Maier Sports
- Maloja
- Mammut
- Marmot
- Martini
- MAUL Sport
- Merrell
- Millet
- Montura
- Mountain Hardwear
- Nordisk
- Ocun
- Outdoor Research
- Petzl
- Rab
- Red Chili
- Reusch
- Roeckl Sports
- Royal Robbins
- Salewa
- Scarpa
- Sea to Summit
- Sweet Protection
- Tasmanian Tiger
- Tatonka
- Ternua
- The North Face
- Trespass
- Unparallel
- VAUDE
- Whistler
- Wild Country
- Zanier
- Ziener
No brand found