Where Climbers in Kamloops Get Equipped
As Kamloops' climbing community grows and indoor and outdoor opportunities expand, the demand for reliable equipment and knowledgeable retailers has become essential. This overview examines where climbers purchase their gear, the products available, and how these stores contribute to the local climbing scene.
Top Rock Climbing and Bouldering Gear Stores in Kamloops
True Outdoors Kamloops
True Outdoors, located at 749B Notre Dame Drive, offers a full range of climbing gear including harnesses, ropes, helmets, carabiners, and crash pads. Customers can also find shoes from major brands like La Sportiva and Scarpa. The store stocks equipment from PETZL, Black Diamond, and other respected manufacturers. Staff provide advice on selecting appropriate gear for sport climbing, trad routes, or bouldering. True Outdoors also rents equipment and supplies gear for other outdoor activities.
The store earned a Silver award in KamloopsBCNow’s "Best Outdoor Gear Store in Kamloops," highlighting its strong community support. Its focus on quality products and knowledgeable service has made it a key destination for many climbers.
Atmosphere Kamloops
Located at 1180 Columbia Street West, Unit B105, Atmosphere carries a selection of outdoor gear, including climbing equipment, technical apparel, and accessories. The store features brands like The North Face and Hydro Flask, popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
Atmosphere offers weekly deals and promotions, and staff are available to help customers choose equipment suited to their needs. The store received a Gold award from KamloopsBCNow in the same category as True Outdoors, reflecting its standing in the local market.
Play It Again Sports Kamloops
Play It Again Sports provides both new and used sports equipment. While it does not specialize exclusively in climbing gear, it often carries harnesses, carabiners, and crash pads. The store caters to climbers looking to buy or sell used gear, offering affordable equipment options.
This business model supports sustainability by extending the life cycle of sports gear. Customers can trade in or purchase second-hand items that meet safety standards, giving climbers budget-friendly alternatives.
Facebook Marketplace – Kamloops Climbing Gear
Facebook Marketplace offers a platform for local climbers to buy and sell gear. Many use it to find second-hand equipment at lower prices. Typical listings include climbing shoes, harnesses, carabiners, and crash pads.
While this can be cost-effective, buyers should carefully inspect items to ensure they meet safety standards. Sellers often provide detailed descriptions and photos, and local transactions make pick-up straightforward.
Essential Climbing and Bouldering Gear
Climbers need several key pieces of gear for both indoor and outdoor use. Shoes are essential for grip and footwork, with La Sportiva and Scarpa among the preferred brands. Harnesses should offer a secure fit and comfort, with PETZL and Black Diamond as common choices.
Helmets provide critical safety. Models like the Black Diamond Half Dome meet protection standards while allowing ventilation. Ropes and carabiners are also fundamental. Climbers select dynamic or static ropes depending on the activity, and carabiners must have reliable locking mechanisms.
For bouldering, crash pads cushion falls. Climbers look for pads offering adequate thickness and coverage. Asana and Metolius are widely used brands. Chalk and chalk bags, available in loose, block, and liquid forms, help maintain grip during climbs.
Kamloops Climbing Community and Resources
Cliffside Climbing Gym serves as a central hub for indoor climbers. It features various climbing walls, training programs, and hosts events supporting both beginners and experienced climbers.
Climb Kamloops, an online resource, provides information on local climbing routes and conditions. It also offers forums where climbers share experiences and advice. These platforms strengthen the local climbing network and help climbers connect and explore new routes.
Community events, including workshops and competitions, foster connections among climbers and introduce new techniques and safety practices.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gear Store
When selecting a store, climbers should consider their specific needs. Gear varies depending on whether the focus is sport climbing, trad, or bouldering, so choosing a retailer with a wide selection is important.
Stores with knowledgeable staff can assist in finding gear that matches experience level and goals. Trying on equipment ensures proper fit and compatibility. Budget also plays a role. Some climbers prefer new equipment, while others seek used options from Play It Again Sports or Facebook Marketplace.
Equipping Your Climb in Kamloops
Kamloops provides strong options for purchasing climbing and bouldering gear. True Outdoors and Atmosphere lead in offering new equipment and professional service. Play It Again Sports and Facebook Marketplace offer alternatives for climbers seeking affordable, used gear.
With the right equipment and access to community resources, climbers in Kamloops can prepare for both indoor and outdoor challenges. Investing in quality gear supports safety and helps climbers reach their goals on the wall or at the crag.
