| Indoor and outdoor climbing are two
different beasts. The main difference is of course the
climbing surface. Most indoor gyms use holds that are
bolted onto the wall, therefore the direction of the
route is easily seen, as are the individual holds. When
climbing outdoors, the holds are not usually as apparent.
The outdoor climber spends more time searching for the
holds than the indoor climber would. The second main difference is the level of distractions both have. Indoor climbing is usually a little easier to focus on that outdoor climbing. When outdoors, wind, weather, bugs, and cars are the main distraction. Indoors, the distractions are usually less - only other climbers. |
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Indoor gym climbing involves less personal equipment than outdoor climbing does. Indoor gyms usually have the ropes already set up for the climbers to use for a top rope, and have the quickdraws already clipped in the hangars on the walls for lead climbers.
For most indoor gyms, you only need to bring a harness, shoes, and chalk bag. Most gyms rent these items as well, if you are a beginner and don't have any equipment yet.
Since there aren't many carabeiner stands on the side of the road, you need a lot more equipment to climb outdoors. To learn exactly what you need, check out the What do I need for... section of our equipment page.
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