Somehow, it’s already November and the holiday season’s right around the corner. If you have any climbers in your life, you might be wondering what gifts to buy for them.
But if you need ideas for what to buy, don’t stress. This world of rock climbing gear can feel complicated and obscure even to climbers. From gear to media to memberships, we’ve put together a list of suggestions. Pick up any of these to make your climbing loved ones completely stoked when they open their gifts:
1. Climbing gear
Help your climber do what they love to do: climb! Climbing gear is always a safe bet. They could use new climbing shoes to replace the pair they’ve worn out bouldering over the past year. A belay device like the Petzl GriGri+ will help them stay safe on the wall. Or buy them a new rope. With a Sterling Velocity 9.8mm, they can work on that new route they’ve been eyeing in our Avondale location.
2. Reel Rock films
Every year, the climbing community buzzes with energy around the Reel Rock Film Tour. Many Chicago climbers went to this year’s first official film festival tour stop in the city! Reel Rock, a collection of short films, hits at the heart of the climbing community every year. It’s full of laughs, heartfelt connections, and amazing climbs. So why not buy a copy of previous tours and give it to your climbing friends? Digital copies are available on the Reel Rock website.
3. First Ascent apparel
You can often spot First Ascent climbers in the wild: they’re wearing FA gear. We’ve got a couple of new designs launching early in December: a new beanie and a new hoodie. They’re super soft and warm — perfect for the early-appearing cold weather we’re having. Come by the Avondale location to pick up this and other FA swag in the pro shop!
4. Gift cards
If you’re still not sure what to buy, we offer gift cards too. Your climber friends and loved ones can use them to pick out the best gifts for them. Everything from apparel to equipment like ropes and belay devices is fair game. This Black Friday through Cyber Monday, we’re offering 10% off of all our gift cards (online or in person) so you can get FA dollars in your climber’s hands at a discount. Don’t sleep on it!
5. Holiday Market and Gear Swap
This upcoming December 7th, stop by our First Ascent Holiday Market at our Avondale location. Local and outdoor retailers will showcase their wares with special holiday deals, so you can pare down your shopping list. What’s more, we’ll have local non-profits with gift ideas that give big and give back. We’ll also host a gear swap, where you can buy, sell, and trade your new or gently used gear to acquire gifts for yourself and others.
This is a great opportunity to get hands-on guidance for the climbers and adventurers in your life gifts. And you can get your photo with Santa on his portaledge. See you there!
One last thought: the holidays can be stressful. If you think you’ll struggle to buy gifts for everyone in your life, don’t worry. Despite all the marketing, this time of year is about the people. Your presence and friendship are enough, and those are free to give. Happy holidays!