You’ve embarked on the journey of planning your climbing gym, conducted thorough research on the fitout, and now it’s time to pause and deliberate on the equipment that will populate your gym. When it comes to stocking your climbing gym, there are several crucial factors to consider. We recently had a conversation with Rob Saunders, who collaborates with Climbing Anchors and Scarpa Australia, and have gathered valuable insights on the essential aspects of equipping your climbing gym.

So, when should you start process and where do you begin?
The ideal timing to engage with your equipment supplier may seem early, but it aligns with finalizing your gym’s location and signing the wall building contract. According to Rob, this juncture is when you should consult your supplier regarding the necessary equipment. It’s worth noting that a significant portion of the equipment required for your gym often originates from Europe, which can lead to unexpected lead times for the gear you require. For instance, rental shoes and ropes might have extended delivery times, sometimes stretching up to 4-5 months.

Integrate your equipment considerations into your wall design.
Organizing the equipment you need can be a relatively straightforward process, provided you have a knowledgeable supplier readily available for guidance. A reputable equipment supplier will identify your specific requirements and assist in selecting the most suitable equipment for your gym. Rob emphasizes that it’s essential to recognize that top rope and lead climbing gyms entail more equipment considerations during the construction phase compared to bouldering gyms. Factors such as the placement of anchors, belay stations, and perma-draws on the wall can be customized to align with your needs, but it’s crucial to discuss these aspects with both your wall and equipment suppliers. Additionally, you should also factor in rental equipment for your customers, as even small details like the curvature of rental shoes can impact your customers’ experience.

Comprehensive training for your staff is imperative.
In addition to providing inductions for new climbers and general supervision, your staff must also be proficient in observing and inspecting your equipment. Establishing robust processes for equipment review and maintenance, as well as timely replacement when necessary, is essential. As Rob emphasizes, keeping your staff well-informed about the regulations and guidelines, particularly those pertaining to equipment, is critical for ensuring the seamless operation of your gym.

We hope this guidance has provided you with a solid starting point for addressing the equipment needs of your climbing gym, considering their influence on your gym’s design, and understanding the importance of keeping your staff informed. Stay tuned for more information in our upcoming post on setting up a retail store within your climbing gym.