Rock climbing is an outdoor activity that goes hand in hand with hiking and camping. Scaling vertical rock faces can be fun, challenging and rewarding, but only if the correct safety techniques are practised and specialised equipment is used. At Paddy Pallin, we stock a range of rock climbing gear and climbing accessories, suitable for sport climbing, bouldering, multi-pitch climbing and traditional climbing. Our selection includes climbing carabiners, climbing helmets, climbing harnesses, chalk and chalk bags, rock protection, belay devices, climbing ropes and climbing accessory cord. We have all the gear you’ll need to get out climbing in safety and style!

FAQ's

What types of carabiners does Paddy Pallin sell?

There are two main types of carabiners; those designed for rock climbing and those that are not. Here at Paddy Pallin, we stock both. Climbing carabiners will be constructed from either alloy or steel and load rated with several clearly displayed kN (kilonewton) ratings. These will also have a spring-loaded gate. In contrast, locking carabiners will feature a gate closure mechanism, often called a screw gate. The 2nd type of carabiners are accessory or non-climbing carabiners. These will usually be smaller, made from wither plastic or alloy and are NOT safe for climbing. They might still have a load rating, but this is much lower and rated in kgs. These carabiner clips are perfect for hanging gear, as a keyring, or for hanging your food bag so it’s safe from the local rodents in backcountry huts.

Can I buy a climbing helmet at Paddy Pallin?

Climbing helmets are vital for keeping safe whilst rock climbing. A common misconception is that a rock climbing helmet, like a bicycle helmet, is there to protect you in a fall. While wearing a helmet will definitely help in this case, they are primarily designed for top-down impacts. Often rock climbing occurs on and below cliff faces, where loose and falling rock is easily encountered. Just think of it as cheap life insurance!  

Does Paddy Pallin sell rock climbing harnesses?

A comfortable well-fitted climbing harness can mean the difference between having fun and hanging miserably. We stock a range of harnesses that come in both men's and women's specific fits, and also in multiple sizes. Be sure to try on a few models and sizes before making a selection. It’s important to remember that a climbing harness should secure snugly around the waist, not sit lower down on the hips.

Are chalk bags and climbing chalk available at Paddy Pallin?

We stock a range of fun chalk bags from 8bPlus, Arc'teryx, The North Face and Metolius. To fill your chalk bag, we also have various types of climbing chalk from Metolius, including loose chalk, refillable chalk balls, chalk blocks and liquid chalk.

Are rock climbing shoes available at Paddy Pallin?

Modern rock climbing shoes are pretty amazing; they can allow you to stand on the tiniest of ledges and use footholds that almost don’t exist. Our range of Scarpa climbing shoes caters to different types of climbing and different levels of climbing ability. With the option of several flat-lasted beginner level shoes, along with multiple more technical models for intermediate and advanced climbers, be sure to try on several models and sizes in store before you make a decision.  

How tight do rock climbing shoes need to be? 

Not as tight and you might think. A common misconception is that climbing shoes need to be agonisingly tight in order to perform well. This is simply wrong. It is correct that you want a very snug fit for climbing shoes. More technical models will have a down-turned shape, and having your toes also turned downwards is important. This allows more strength to be transferred to your toes so that you can stand on the very points of your shoes. However, if a shoe is extremely painful and overly difficult to get on or off, it’s probably too small. Our range of Scarpa climbing shoes, especially those constructed from synthetic based leather uppers, will keep their shape too. Be careful you don’t buy a shoe of this kind too small, expecting it will stretch with use. Leather shoes, by contrast, will stretch with use, usually between a half and full size. 

What types of anchors and rock protection does Paddy Pallin stock?

As you climb and learn more about the sport, you’ll likely start collecting a ‘rack’ of rock protection. We stock a range of equipment including quickdraws, nuts, cams, removable bolt hangers, safety tethers, slings, nut tools, and quick links. 

Do you sell ice axes and crampons? 

We keep a basic Black Diamond ice axe model and one type of mountaineering crampons in stock. If you’re after something specific or more technical we’re always happy to do special orders too.  

Which belay devices does Paddy Pallin sell?

Choosing a belay device comes down to both personal preference and also the type of climbing you plan to undertake. Our range includes several of the common tube or ATC style and the figure 8, along with some rope ascenders made by Petzl. 

Does Paddy Pallin sell climbing ropes?

We stock a range of single rated Tendon ropes. These include 60m and 70m models, ranging from 9.1mm to 10mm in diameter, and are suitable for the majority of sport, multi-pitch and traditional climbing on offer within Australia. We also stock several climbing rope bags, so you can keep your new rope clean and organised.   

Can I buy climbing rope and accessory cord by the metre?

Climbing cord is mega useful not only for climbers but also for anyone looking for super-strong rope of cord for other outdoor activities. Whether you’re rigging up shelters, need emergency boot laces, are hanging a hammock or just want to build a simple clothesline, there is a type of rope or cord for everyone. Our cords are available to purchase by the metre, so just let us know which diameter you want and how many metres. Additionally, we have flat climbing tape/webbing and 9mm and 10mm static rope available by the metre.

Can I return safety or climbing equipment, even if it has not been used? 

Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns or exchanges of any climbing or safety equipment. You will find this is a common policy. The reasoning is that once a product of this nature leaves the store, we can no longer guarantee that it has not been damaged, compromised or used incorrectly. So please be extra careful with making purchases of climbing equipment and make sure to get the right size or option before committing to a purchase.