Bouldering is often considered to be one of the most ‘naked’ forms of climbing as it requires the least amount of equipment out of all the climbing sports. Bouldering is the act of climbing by using pads as protection rather than ropes as you would in traditional climbing. If you’re looking for a good way to ease into climbing sports, bouldering is a great and inexpensive way to start.

Lately, beach bouldering has grown in popularity and is quickly becoming a favorite summer sport amongst climbers. Beach bouldering is a fantastic way to spend a day enjoying the summer weather on the beach! If you’re looking for a fun, new beach activity you can try with your friends, check out our beach bouldering essentials list for everything you need to get started:

1. Sunglasses

While you can get away without wearing sunglasses while bouldering in the woods, it’s important to wear proper eyewear while at the beach. Many of us already know about the sun’s harmful UV rays and how they can impact our eyesight, but did you know that it’s easier to get sunburnt while on the beach? It’s because the sand and water reflect an extra 15% of the sun’s rays granting beachgoers an extra dose of sun exposure. So if you’re planning on bouldering on the beach anytime soon, you’ll need a pair of proper sunglasses.

When choosing a pair of sunglasses, make sure that they offer adequate protection. A brand like Oakley offers several styles that provide not only 100% UVA / UVB sun protection, but glare reduction and impact resistance as well. Through the Oakley promo code provided here, you can even enjoy an exclusive discount on your next pair!

2. Appropriate clothing

When performing any climbing activity, it’s important to wear the appropriate clothing. Climbing clothing must not restrict your movement in any way and it must not have any loose ends that could potentially wind up tangled in your rope. If you’re going to be bouldering outdoors, make sure that your clothing is breathable and sweat-wicking as well to help you regulate your temperature on a hot day.

Remember, you can suffer a sunburn even while in the shade. If you’re especially prone to sunburns, consider UV protection enhanced clothing and wearing long sleeves!

3. Chalk Bag

Chalk is an essential climbing tool that allows climbers to improve their grip. By absorbing the sweat and oil from your hands, it increases the friction between your hand and the rock. Chalk comes in either ball or loose form and climbers traditionally keep it in a small bag tied around their waists or necks. While its use is a bit controversial in the bouldering community, no beginner should leave without it.

4. Rock Shoes

If you’re a beginner at bouldering, you might get away with sneakers on your first few climbs. But if you have any hopes of conquering bigger heights, you’re eventually going to want to invest in a pair of rock shoes. Rock shoes are made from special, sticky rubber soles designed to protect your feet while offering you the grip you need to climb.

5. A Bouldering Pad
A Bouldering Pad, or crash pad, is going to be your most important piece of safety equipment. While traditional climbing uses ropes and tethers to keep you safe, bouldering requires falling on the ground with only a pad to protect you.
Studies have shown that injuries are much more frequent when bouldering outdoors as compared to other climbing sports. so you’re going to want to make sure that your bouldering pad offers enough protection!
The general rule is, the higher you plan to climb, the bigger your bouldering pad will need to be.