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If you've ever stuck at a crux because your pants snagged or lost warmth mid-route, you know clothing and accessories make a huge difference. Climbing apparel isn't just about looking good on the wall — it's engineered for mobility, durability, and safety. The right gear keeps you comfortable in temps from 30°F to 80°F, reduces skin wear during long sessions, and pairs properly with harnesses, chalk bags, and shoes. Think of great climbing clothes like a trusted climbing partner: flexible, dependable, and quietly supportive when things get serious.
Not every outdoor store treats climbing like a specialty. You want retailers that stock technical brands, offer size and fit guidance, and curate accessories like belay gloves, tape, and chalk that climbers actually use. Look for shops with user reviews, clear return sizing, and product descriptions that mention stretch, reinforcements at stress points, and compatibility with harnesses and crash pads. In the US, several retailers stand out for selection, service, and frequent sales, which is great if you're building a kit without breaking the bank.
Below are trusted US retailers where climbers — from gym regulars to multi-pitch adventurers — commonly shop. Each has its strengths, so I’ll break down what they’re best known for and the types of products you’ll find.
REI is a go-to for many climbers because it blends a broad selection of climbing apparel with dependable customer resources like how-to articles and size guides. You’ll find durable climbing pants, breathable tops, and technical shells suitable for alpine crags. REI often carries community-focused brands and its own REI Co-op line, which balances performance with sustainability. If you want long-lasting pieces and access to expert advice, REI is a safe first stop.
Backcountry is excellent for climbers who want a deep catalog and frequent deals on premium brands. Their site typically stocks everything from lightweight approach shoes to reinforced climbing joggers and technical jackets. Backcountry is a strong choice when you're hunting for a specific model or a last-season discount on a name-brand harness-compatible pant or a highly breathable belay jacket for cool mornings around 45°F.
Patagonia is a favorite for climbers who prioritize sustainability and technical fabrics. Their climbing pants and long-sleeve shirts often use recycled materials and feature ripstop fabric in high-wear areas. Patagonia pieces tend to fit true to size but are cut for movement — think articulated knees and gussets so you can high-step without stress. If you care about materials that last and brands that support environmental causes, Patagonia delivers both performance and conscience.
The North Face mixes city-ready style with climbing-ready construction. Their ascent series and approach trousers offer stretchy synthetic blends that stand up to scrapes and rappelling. They also make versatile shells that breathe when you're working hard on a route and still block wind at belays. For climbers who want a balance between technical features and day-to-day wearability, The North Face is a dependable choice.
Black Diamond is primarily known as a climbing hardware brand, but its apparel and accessory line is thoughtfully designed with climbers in mind. Expect harness-compatible pants with reinforced seams and chalk-bag-friendly pockets, plus accessories like technical hats, sticky rubber training grips, and belay gloves. If you want apparel that pairs seamlessly with climbing hardware, Black Diamond’s lineup is geared toward that integration.
Moosejaw offers a fun shopping experience and a broad selection that includes climbing-specific clothing and a wide array of accessories. Their playful marketing doesn’t underestimate performance — you can find stretchy pants, breathable tees, and accessories like high-friction tape or specialty socks. Moosejaw is one of those great places to comb through when you’re building a kit and want to compare price points across brands.
Outdoor Research builds clothing with a mountaineer’s sensibility, focusing on layering systems that work from basecamp to summit. Their climbing apparel often emphasizes weather resistance without sacrificing stretch, such as windproof soft shells and leggings with abrasion-resistant panels. If you climb in variable conditions or plan adventures where temperature swings are common, Outdoor Research pieces can be invaluable.
Pants are often the most important apparel decision because they affect mobility and durability. Look for features like gusseted crotches, articulated knees, and a mid-rise that won’t slip under your harness. Materials mix nylon with a touch of elastane to achieve both abrasion resistance and stretch. For bouldering, I favor pants with a slimmer leg so they don’t get caught on holds; for trad climbing, reinforced knees and seat panels add longevity. For a quick fit check, sit on a low step and do a deep lunge — you want full range without any fabric bunching or pinching.
Layering is key: a breathable base layer, an insulating mid-layer if it's under 50°F, and a windproof shell. For gym work and warm-weather crags, moisture-wicking tees and tanks are ideal. When temps dip toward freezing, a lightweight synthetic or down jacket that compresses into a pack is invaluable. Also, look for hoods that fit over helmets and sleeves with thumb loops if you’re belaying in chilly winds. Pro tip: avoid cotton next to skin for long sessions — it holds moisture and chills you fast.
Shoes deserve their own shopping strategy. Fit matters more than brand; climbing shoes should fit snugly without causing intense pain. For long trad routes, choose a moderate-profile shoe that’s comfortable over many hours. For bouldering or steep sport climbing, stickier, downturned shoes with aggressive edges give precision on small holds. Approach shoes from stores like REI, Backcountry, or specialty climbing shops help with the approach hike and can double as trail shoes once your route starts.
Accessories are often small investments that pay big dividends. Chalk (loose or block) keeps sweat at bay, while a good chalk bag with a brush holder helps you stay tidy on the wall. Tape and finger-saver gloves protect skin on long sessions. A thin belay glove helps with rope handling in cold weather without sacrificing sensitivity. Also consider a compact headlamp for approach hikes that might extend into dusk — look for units under 6 ounces with a beam range of 50–200 feet.
Climbing apparel sizing can vary widely between brands, so always consult size charts and user reviews. When in doubt, measure your waist and inseam in inches and compare to the brand chart. If you’re ordering a shell meant to go over layers, size up 1 size to allow room for layering without restricting movement. Remember: it’s easier to tailor a slightly loose pant than to stretch a tight one so it's comfortable for long pitches.
Climbing gear can add up, but smart shopping keeps costs down. Look for last-season models at Backcountry or REI outlet sections where you can save 20%–50% on apparel that’s still perfectly capable. Buy core items first — shoes, pants, and a weatherproof layer — then add accessories over time. Also check for bundle deals on harnesses with gear loops if you're new to outdoor climbing; sometimes the bundled price beats buying pieces separately.
Many climbers care about the environment, and several brands respond with durable, repairable designs. Buying higher-quality items that last 5–10 seasons often reduces waste compared to replacing cheaper items more frequently. Look for repair-friendly features like reinforced knees and accessible seams, and prefer brands that offer repair services or recycled materials. It’s a bit like choosing tools: quality upfront saves time and resources later.
Here’s a quick, practical kit that balances weight, durability, and cost. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer and stretch pants with reinforced knees. Add a lightweight insulating mid-layer if temps might drop below 50°F, plus a windproof shell. Pack a chalk bag, spare tape, a small first-aid kit, and a headlamp under 6 ounces if the approach might take longer than expected. Footwear: approach shoes for hikes and a snug pair of climbing shoes for the route. This combo keeps you comfortable on approaches up to a few miles and agile on routes that require technical footwork.
In spring and summer you’ll prioritize breathable fabrics and UPF protection; in fall and winter the focus shifts to insulation and layering. For colder months, add a thermal mid-layer and wind-resistant outerwear that still allows mobility — think soft-shells that let you twist and reach without restriction. Also swap lightweight low-cut socks for thicker, ankle-high versions when temps dip below freezing to stave off numb toes on long belays.
Each retailer offers something different. REI gives reliable selection and community expertise; Backcountry brings deep inventory and frequent deals; Patagonia and Outdoor Research lean into sustainability and technical construction; Black Diamond integrates apparel with climbing hardware; Moosejaw adds variety and fun. Figure out your priorities — price, sustainability, technical features — and pick stores that align. And don’t be afraid to mix brands: a Patagonia mid-layer with Black Diamond pants and shoes bought through REI is a perfectly sensible, high-performing combo.
Choosing the right climbing apparel and accessories is about matching movement, protection, and durability to your style of climbing. Whether you're shopping for a first pair of shoes, building a layering system for alpine objectives, or hunting for bargain-quality pieces during a sale, US retailers like REI, Backcountry, Patagonia, The North Face, Black Diamond, Moosejaw, and Outdoor Research each have strong reasons to be on your radar. Take your measurements, read product details for harness compatibility and abrasion resistance, and prioritize fit over brand name. Do that, and you'll spend less time fussing with gear and more time enjoying your climbs.
