The best end-of-season deals on climbing gear for 2023

Best for climbers seeking all-around performance on plastic and rock. Let’s face it, modern plastic pulling has very little to do with outdoor climbing. And nowhere is this divergence more evident than the footholds encountered outside. Whereas current plastic routes depend highly on using large, easy-to-stand-on features, outdoor routes and boulder problems frequently feature small, insecure footholds. The truth is that when you’re outdoors, you’ll be spending most of your time standing on smaller features, especially when compared to what you encounter on plastic. I suspect Scarpa has also realized this reality, which explains the construction of the Quantix SF. Built on a relatively flat last and featuring sophisticated moderate tensioning, the Quantix FX is perfect for precise edging and smearing on slabby to gently overhanging terrain. The shoe features Vibram’s XS Grip 2 rubber compound for optimal performance on steep ground and less secure footholds. A small rubber toe cap and a rubber-covered heel provide sufficient performance when tackling indoor gym problems. Size them snug for difficult redpoints or fit them more comfortably for longer routes.

The Konseal is the latest evolution of Arc’Teryx’s innovative line of climbing harnesses. Unlike conventional harnesses that fully wrap your waist in padding, the Konseal employs two pod-like padding sections connected with a light, contoured, supportive, and highly flexible webbing belt. The result is supreme comfort when hanging without the movement-restricting bulk frequently found in traditional harnesses. The leg loops are similarly well-padded and, thanks to the adjustable buckles, can accommodate different body shapes and layering systems. Four generously sized gear loops and a small rear haul loop provide plenty of racking space on this versatile and comfortable harness.

The Djinn carabiners have to be one of the best-kept secrets in the climbing world. Built to the same exacting standards as Petzl’s hyper-premium Sprits carabiners, the Djinns deliver excellent durability and greater internal space, making them a perfect choice for sport climbing or for climbers with larger paws. The carabiners feature a large body for easy handling even when wearing gloves, while the I-beam cross-section sheds some grams without comprising strength. These are excellent all-around carabiners with an optimal blend of weight, size, and durability, and they will provide solid service when cragging.

In a world of over-specialization, it’s refreshing to see gear manufacturers still making versatile products that can perform in a wide range of climbing activities. The Edelrid Pure carabiners exemplify this ideal. They are light enough for long routes, reasonably sized for easy clipping, and provide sufficient durability for regular sport cragging. The biners feature a unique forged H-shape that ensures plenty of strength without unnecessary weight, while the keylock nose prevents snagging when clipping.

With all the new helmet technology, it’s sometimes easy to forget that traditional, time-tested designs are still a viable option for many climbers. The Boreo falls into this category. Constructed with a robust ABS shell and an EPS and EPP liner, the Boreo delivers excellent durability and side and top impact protection, all at a very reasonable weight. The helmet has a similarly well-proven headband adjustment and headlamp clips. If you’re looking for a helmet to use as your daily driver for cragging, multi-pitch, and ice, look no further than the Boreo.

Built with a durable ABS shell and impact-absorbing EPS liner, the Zodiac helmet provides versatile protection and won’t self-destruct at the slightest bump. This balanced construction is ideal for climbers who don’t want to coddle their helmet or may experience multiple minor impacts on longer routes. Edelrid specs large vents for additional comfort in warm conditions, and the easy-to-use dial adjuster ensures a secure fit.

Built with a heavyweight cotton and spandex fabric, the Notion Pants provide the durability required when knee scumming without compromising the freedom of movement necessary when high-stepping and stemming. A stretch waistband sits smoothly under a harness, and the drawcord closure ensures a perfect fit.

MEC’s classic Rad pants are back, and this time, they have stretch. Built with a nylon spandex fabric, the new Rad pants offer the same exceptional durability and quick drying as the original pants, and thanks to now built-in stretch, even greater freedom of movement. The result is a pair of climbing pants that are ideal for cragging, bouldering, and even extended backcountry adventures. An elastic waist with a webbing belt sits unobtrusively under a harness and offers easy fit adjustments. The two cargo pockets provide additional easy-to-access storage, while the knit cuffs keep out bugs and debris.

Thanks to its unique sleeve pole design, the ACI 3 can withstand tremendous wind and snow loading while remaining surprisingly light. An integrated vestibule adds some much-appreciated storage space, while the four adjustable zippered vents offer plenty of cross ventilation to help minimize condensation. Multiple guy-out points and DAC Featherlight NSL poles ensure the test remains upright when the winds pick up.

With its 146L capacity, the Zion Haul Bag has the volume required for multi-day big wall ascents. The bag is constructed with a tough vinyl-laminated nylon fabric to withstand the abuse encountered on Grade V walls and expeditions. Black Diamond adds a heavily cushioned suspension system to take the sting out of hauling the bag to the base of the route.

Products reviewed in this article: