Equipment for via ferrata

Equipment for via ferratas on offer at SportanoVia ferratas, literally 'iron roads', have their roots in the Alps and were developed during the First World War to help soldiers navigate difficult mountain terrain. Today, they are one of the most exhilarating forms of climbing for those who are looking for an adrenaline rush but do not want to engage in the more difficult forms of rock climbing. Via ferratas are climbing routes equipped with steel ropes, ladders and bridges that allow you to safely traverse steep and difficult terrain. In the Sportano shop you will find high-quality equipment for via ferrata, including climbing lunges, gloves or helmets. We will provide you with the necessary equipment from brands such as Climbing Technology, Mammut, Salewa or Black Diamond.Key equipment - the via ferrata kitThe via ferrata kit is the foundation of safety when using these "iron roads". It is made up of several key items that provide protection and reassurance when climbing. The first and most important element of the kit is the harness, which provides a point of attachment for the climber. There are special harnesses for via ferrata that feature additional attachment points and higher strength. An energy absorber is another essential piece of kit. In the event of a fall, the absorber acts like a spring that expands to absorb the energy of the fall and protect the climber from a sudden stop. The carabiners that come with the energy absorber are used to hook onto a fixed safety line on the via ferrata. These allow the climber to move safely while still being secured. Many climbers also use special lunges for additional security, especially when traversing more difficult sections.Helmets and their importance when climbing via ferrataThe helmet is one of the most important pieces of equipment for any climber, regardless of the type of climb. In the case of via ferrata, its importance is even more emphasised. There are many potential dangers to the head when climbing a via ferrata. These can include falling stones from higher up the rock, colliding with protruding rock features or accidentally hitting the head during a fall. A helmet provides protection against head injuries, which can be not only painful but also life-threatening. Today's climbing helmets are lightweight, well ventilated and designed not to hinder movement while providing maximum protection. In addition, climbing helmets are often equipped with additional features such as attachments for headlamps, which is particularly useful when climbing in low-light conditions or at night. The use of a helmet when ferrata climbing is not only recommended, but in many places mandatory. Without it, the risk of serious injury increases, which is why every responsible climber should not set out on a via ferrata without adequate head protection.Gloves for via ferrata - protection and gripGloves are an invaluable addition to a via ferrata climber's equipment. Although some climbers consider them unnecessary, many recognise their key benefits. Firstly, gloves protect the hands from abrasion. Via ferratas are characterised by metal elements such as ladders, ropes and metal attachment points. Hands directly exposed to friction with these elements can quickly become abrasions, scratches or even deeper wounds. Gloves provide a protective layer between the hand and the hard, often sharply pointed elements of the via ferrata. In addition to protection, gloves improve grip. Hand sweating can affect grip confidence, especially when climbing in higher temperatures. A well-chosen pair of gloves with a non-slip surface on the inside of the hand can significantly improve grip, which translates into greater safety and security when climbing.What safety features are essential?A via ferrata is a climbing route equipped with fixed safety features such as steel cables, buckles and ladders to help climbers traverse the more difficult sections. However, the mere presence of these elements does not completely eliminate the risk. Therefore, it is important that the climber is also properly secured. The most important safety element is the via ferrata kit, consisting of an energy absorber and two carabiners. The absorber acts as a shock absorber, reducing the forces acting on the climber during a possible fall, while the carabiners allow the climber to be continuously clipped to a fixed safety line. It is important to regularly check the condition of your equipment. The via ferrata kit should be checked before each use for any damage or signs of wear. In addition, some items, such as absorbers, have a specific useful life and should be replaced after this time. A helmet, harness, gloves and suitable footwear are additional pieces of equipment that increase safety when climbing via ferrata. All these elements together form a safety system that protects the climber from potential dangers and risk of injury.