The Arc’teryx AR-395a Harness is made to be your best friend on all pitches, glaciers, and everything in between, and it lives up to that expectation. With a light build and superior comfort for its weight, this harnesses is designed to hold enough gear for a multi-pitch climb while being comfortable enough to belay in or wear under a backpack. While the leg loops are the weak point in terms of comfort and size, most users are willing to look past this for the superior comfort that the harness offers in the waist and its overall durability and usefulness.
The La Sportiva Miura VS Vibram XS Grip2 Climbing Shoe for women is a great option for intermediate climbers needing an all-around, technical shoe. The edging ability, support, adjustability, and downturned shape makes this shoe great for multiple climbing categories.
The Black Diamond Big Gun Harness shines on multi-pitch trad routes because of its maximized padding and comfort, gear loops, and double belay loop. While there are debates about the usefulness of many smaller gear loops instead of a few larger ones, many users like the option for increased organization with the Big Gun’s smaller loops. Although this is an overall much-appreciated and lauded harness, it is important to pay attention to the sizing for the best possible fit, especially as the “unisex fit” is likely more geared towards male bodies.
The La Sportiva Skawama climbing shoe is aggressive and comfortable. It’s able to hold itself on little nubs of granite, smear, and climb cracks like a dream (at a decent price). The main thing to keep in mind with this shoe is sizing—you’ll probably need to go down a half size.
The Grivel G12 Crampon is a top-of-the-line option that excels on almost all terrain. The durability, aggressive front of the shoe, and versatility make these a great choice for any alpine adventurist who will be climbing steep and icy terrain.
The Scarpa Vapor V XS Edge Climbing Shoe is great for any level of climber, focusing on comfort, technique, and durability. The versatility this shoe provides makes it great for sport climbing and multi-pitch routes.
The Five Ten Anasazi VCS Climbing Shoe is an adjustable and supportive shoe that is a great choice for all-day wear and versatile climbing. The fit is good for beginners and also may suit experts, combining technical ability, stiffness, and comfort into one shoe.
The Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampon is a great choice for anyone needing a durable, aggressive, and grippy crampon for relatively high-angle ascents and descents. The secure fit on all boots and shoes makes this crampon a top choice.
The La Sportiva Genius Climbing Shoe is a great choice for climbers searching for an all-around and durable shoe. The comfort combined with technical abilities makes this suitable for all levels, and capable for various types of climbing.
The Mad Rock Shark Climbing Shoe is a great choice for climbers who specialize in sport climbing, indoor climbing, bouldering, or steep gym. The balance between aggressive design and comfort makes this a top choice for all-day use, and is proficient in edging, sport climbing, smearing, and toe/heel-hooking.