The 10 essential pieces of gear I always pack to boulder outside safely

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Organic Climbing

• Bouldering is a great way to spend time outdoors and work on your rock climbing technique, while also providing a fun method for breaking a sweat.
• For those just getting into the sport, there's more to it than just throwing on some climbing shoes and heading to your local routes — it takes a proper understanding of the gear you need, where you intend to climb, and who you're climbing with.

My journey with bouldering started over half a decade ago when my friend dragged me to the free climbing cave at Midwest Mountaineering in Minneapolis, Minnesota. For those first few months, I went as often as I could and eventually wore a hole in a pair of used Scarpa climbing shoes I found in a bin at an REI Garage Sale for less than $20.

Free dusty basement climbing and a pair of used shoes were all I could afford at the time, but that didn't stop me from falling in love with the sport. When I transitioned to paying for a gym membership — and eventually going outside — I slowly learned about the gear I didn't have and how buying a few things would help me be a safer and more competent climber.

Of course, bouldering outside safely starts with a lot more than having the right gear. Each area has its own set of rules and regulations that you should familiarize yourself with before heading out. Be sure to check with your local Access Fund organization about any closures or alerts in your area. Guidebooks are the most reliable source for route information and camping details so do your research and buy one before heading out. If your area doesn't have a guidebook, check Mountain Project for information.

You're also as safe as the company you keep so I recommend going out with a more experienced friend for your first few times to get the hang of spotting outside and falling correctly on a crash pad. Since some climbing areas tend to be remote and out of cell service, you should always carry a competent first aid kit and have the knowledge to use what's inside in the case of an emergency.

I should note that climbing gear is highly dependent on personal preference and needs. What I might consider perfect, another boulderer could turn their nose up at. Like anything, finding the right gear for you takes time, experience, and above all else, knowing your own unique style of climbing. Pay close attention to the return policies of the retailer you're purchasing from so you can exchange gear if needed.