Climbing
76 Products
About Climbing Apparel at The North Face
At The North Face, we're all about trail, snow, and mountain. And when it comes to mountain, climbing is where many of our athletes and customers love to play. Whether it's free soloing like Alex Honnold, rope climbing, indoor climbing, or bouldering, if you're into it, we've got clothing to help you never stop exploring.
The key features you want to look for in climbing apparel include:
Flexibility and stretch: Clothing that works best for climbing allows for a full range of motion. This is especially important in bottoms because they need to accommodate high steps and reach. Leggings, joggers, capris, and pants with a gusseted crotch are a popular choice. Articulated knees like in our Women's Beta Utility Belted Pants and our Summit Series Off Width Pants also allow for more movement.
Breathability and moisture-wicking: Look for tops and bottoms that are designed to be breathable and help wick away moisture or dry quickly. Fitted athletic tees and tank tops are a popular choice. T-shirts can also be worn, but be careful as baggy clothing can catch on holds and gear.
Layering: Temperatures and weather conditions can change quickly especially if you start your ascent early in the morning and end later in the day. Look for lightweight pieces you can layer and take off as needed like fleece or softshell jackets and windbreakers.
Durability: Choose apparel made from fabrics designed to withstand scrapes and abrasions.
If you are climbing outdoors, don't forget to protect your skin against the sun's harmful rays. Sunscreen is key, but so sun protection clothing with built-in UPF protection. A hat is also an important accessory to take along.