Many new climbers are looking to transition from the gym to pulling on real rock. But to go outside some new toys are needed. This series of articles focuses on helping climbers select the right equipment to get out cragging. This first of the series will examine quickdraws. If you simply want to go top-roping you can skip this purchase for now. There’s a huge … Continue reading From Gym to Crag Pt. 1: Choosing Quickdraws
Climbing with a rappel or tag line can offer a number of advantages over using double or twin ropes in many situations. As a result they’ve been quickly gaining in popularity. Traditionally a long piece of accessory cord was the go-to for a tag line. However, due to increasing popularity, many companies now make a specific product for this use including Sterling Ropes, Mammut, Petzl, … Continue reading Review: Edelrid Rap Line II (new)
Every climber needs a robust, all-round go-to rope that they can abuse at the crag. Something to use when working a project, top-roping or teaching a friend how to climb. While all these sleek new triple rated, by-patterned, dry certified, sub 9mm ropes on the market are great, they’re also quite specialized and not really meant for everyday cragging. For that type of service the Edelrid … Continue reading Edelrid Boa Eco (AKA Parrot) Climbing Rope Review
Each year at the Outdoor Retailer show hundreds and hundreds of new products and designs are introduced by brands from all over the world. Of course many of these so-called “new” products or innovations are realistically “me-too” products. (me-too product: a brand introduces something new or different, soon after many other brands develop similar products). However, every year there is some real innovation and new … Continue reading 10 Cool Products to Check Out in 2017
Here at Black Sheep we know there’s a lot of hard-to-shop-for climbers out there and of course we want to help connect that climber with the perfect gift. In the first installment of this year’s Christmas Gift Guide we highlighted some options for larger gifts. Now in this, the second part we’re talking Stocking Stuffers. These smaller or less expensive items may or may not be new but … Continue reading Climbers Christmas Guide 2016: Stocking Stuffers
Well it’s that time of year again and I’m sure that there’s a bunch of you out there with a hard-to-shop-for climber in the family. Not to worry, we have a 2-part special that should help you with some Christmas gift ideas. Part 1 will highlight five great gift ideas for climbers. Not all of this gear is brand new but it’s all good stuff … Continue reading Christmas 2016: Gift Ideas for Climbers
