Canyoneering Gear List:
Essential Equipment for Your Adventure

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Must-Have Canyoneering Gear

At the minimum a canyoneer should have these individual items:

  1. Canyoneering Rope
  2. Harness
  3. Canyoneering-specific Descender
  4. Helmet
  5. Carabiners
  6. Sturdy Shoes
  7. Gloves

Canyoneering is an exhilarating outdoor activity that combines hiking, climbing, and rappelling through narrow slot canyons, making it essential to have the right gear. A well-prepared canyoneer knows that the right equipment can make all the difference in ensuring safety and enjoyment. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive canyoneering gear list categorized into Technical Gear, Footwear, Clothing, Rope, Packs, and Essentials.

However, these lists are NOT EXHAUSTIVE! Canyoneering has a lot of inherent risks involved in it and can be DANGEROUS. You should not go by yourself or without an experienced canyoneer. When it comes to gear, individuals have their own preferences on what is best to bring with them in a canyon. There are many tools that can help you accomplish the same tasks in a canyon, whether it is completing a simple rappel or overcoming other challenging obstacles. It is up to you to determine the best gear and tools to use in a given situation.

Canyoneering gear essentials

Technical Gear

  • Helmet: Protect your head with a durable helmet designed for climbing or canyoneering. Ensure it fits snugly.
  • Harness: A comfortable harness with gear loops for attaching your rappelling device and other essentials.
  • Rappelling Device: A canyoneering-specific device such as a Hoodoo or a descender that you can add friction on the fly for controlled descents.
  • Carabiners: A few locking carabiners for securing ropes and anchors.
  • Prusik Loops: Used for ascending and self-rescue when needed. The VT Prussik is a very versatile tool to have in the canyons.
  • Webbing: 1-inch webbing is great to keep in your pack when you need to build or replace anchors in canyons.

Footwear

  • Canyoneering Shoes: Sturdy, quick-drying canyoneering shoes with excellent traction to navigate slippery rocks.
  • Neoprene Socks: To keep your feet warm in cold water and protect against blisters.
La Sportiva Canyoneering Shoes
A wetsuit can be part of your essential canyoneering gear

Clothing

  • Quick-Dry Clothing: Moisture-wicking shirts, pants, and shorts to keep you dry.
  • Wetsuit or Drysuit: Depending on the water conditions, a wetsuit or drysuit can provide thermal insulation. Here are men’s wetsuits and women’s wetsuits.
  • Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield you from the sun’s harsh rays.
  • Gloves: Protect your hands while handling ropes and sharp rocks.

Rope

  • Static Rope: A durable static rope with enough length for your descents and ascents. Remember, you always need at least double the length of the longest rappel unless you are using a pull cord. 
  • Throw Bag: A bag with a rope inside for throwing and anchoring.
Rope is an essential part of canyoneering gear
A canyoneering pack designed for water

Packs

  • Canyoneering Pack: A specialized pack designed for canyoneering with drainage holes and a comfortable fit.
  • Dry Bag: Keep your essentials dry by storing them in waterproof dry bags within your canyoneering pack.

Other Essentials

  • Navigation Tools: A GPS device to ensure you stay on track.
  • First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
  • Water and Hydration System: Carry enough water for your trip, and a hydration bladder or bottles.
  • Headlamp: A reliable headlamp with extra batteries for unexpected situations.
  • Emergency Whistle: For signaling in case of emergencies.
  • Multi-Tool or Knife: Useful for various tasks, such as cutting ropes or repairing gear.

Remember, canyoneering can be physically demanding and requires proper preparation. Your safety should always be a priority. Make sure to receive proper training and consult local experts for specific recommendations on canyoneering gear and techniques for the areas you plan to explore.

The right canyoneering gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable adventure. Plan ahead, double-check your gear, and stay safe while exploring the wonders of these stunning natural formations.