Going to the climbing forest? This to wear (and this not)

3 August 2021

There you go. Like a true adventurer, you swing from tree to tree, brave the greatest heights and zipline across to the other side. A climbing forest is the ultimate outing for outdoorsmen - young and old. But which clothes are best and what else do you need to consider? Together with Climbing forest Netherlands we reveal all the climbing secrets (Source: https://www.bever.nl/blog/outdoor/tips-kleding-klimbos.html)

Abrasions, overheating, a scarf snagging: things you definitely don't want to experience during your outing to the climbing forest. Luckily, with these tips, you'll be happily going up and down the course. Safety and fun above all!

Stand firm in your shoes

And we don't just mean when you stand on the edge of a plateau to whizz across a valley via a zip line. You also need to be strong in the literal sense. Preferably, you'll wear to a climbing forest high-profile shoes. Sports shoes or trainers are possible, but even then a good tread is important. This way, you will have enough grip as you go along the trails, even when it rains.

Keep in mind the weather

Before you go climbing, always check the weather forecast. Not because a little rain will stop you, but so you can adjust your choice of clothing according to the forecast. Keep in mind that climbing is a strenuous activity. So dress a little too cold rather than too warm. However, it is not recommended to climb in a dress, skirt or very shorts. These may be refreshing, but they can also give you nasty chafing. This is because the climbing harness can rub nastily along your bare legs. A shorts with slightly longer legs can of course.

Furthermore, several layers are always a good idea. Outdoor enthusiasts swear for a reason at the 3-layer system to stay warm. Remember to have your climbing harness checked when you take off a layer of clothing. 

3x big no-go's

With five parks across the country, it has Climbing forest Netherlands the necessary experience with (awkward) climbers. Do yourself a favour and don't do the following things:

• Wearing long hair loose. Just don't, because: ouch. Wear it in a ponytail or low bun.
• Putting on a loose scarf. When your scarf is too loose, it can get caught behind something.
• Taking accessories into the trees. Your daypack, telephone or drinking bottle carry in the routes is not allowed at Klimbos Nederland locations. Saves a lot of panic around falling phones. Fortunately, you can store all your (valuables) in free lockers, which you can simply open between climbs.

Keep yourself high and dry

If it rains, you can climb on just fine. The foliage stops a lot of rain. However, it can be nice to wear a waterproof jacket or water-repellent jacket while climbing, so you don't get soaked and therefore very cold. How to choose a waterproof jacket, read here. It is also smart to bring dry clothes for the way back home.

A helping hand

If the plateau is a bit too high or if you dangle halfway down a zipline, there is always a climbing forest guide nearby to help you. But you can also help yourself by putting on climbing gloves. Gloves are not compulsory at Klimbos Nederland, but are definitely allowed. They keep your hands warm when it's chilly outside and offer grip and protection against rough ropes and cables, for example.