ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Rock-climbing equipment

Rock climbing is an incredibly fun and adventurous sport, and to do it safely, you need the right equipment. Let's go over the things you need to climb rocks like a pro.

1. Harness: A harness is like a special pair of pants with a belt that wraps around your waist and legs. It holds you up in case you fall while you're high up on the wall.

2. Helmet: Just like how you wear a helmet while riding your bike to protect your head, you need to wear a helmet when rock climbing. This is because rocks can fall from above, and you don't want them to hit your head!

3. Climbing shoes: Climbing shoes are like special shoes that help you grip the rocks better. They are snug on your feet and have a rubber sole to help you climb up steep routes.

4. Ropes: A rope is like a big, strong string that goes up the wall to keep you safe. Before you start climbing, you tie one end of the rope to your harness, and your friend ties the other end to the base of the wall. If you fall, the rope will stop you from falling too far!

5. Carabiners: Carabiners are like special metal clips that let you attach things to your harness, like a rope or a quickdraw (more on that later). They come in different shapes and sizes, but they all do the same thing - keep you safe.

6. Quickdraws: These are two carabiners connected by a short piece of webbing. They help you clip the rope to bolts in the rock so that you stay safe. You attach one carabiner to your harness, and the other to the bolt.

7. Chalk bag: Climbing can be sweaty, and sweaty hands can slip off the rocks. A chalk bag is a small bag filled with chalk that you can dip your hands into to keep them dry and grippy.

So that's it! With these essential items, you're now ready to climb rocks like a pro, but always remember safety first!
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