Are shorts or leggings better for rock climbing? It’s a question as old as the sport itself.
Some climbers swear by shorts, while others wouldn’t dream of leaving home without their trusty leggings. So, which is better?
The truth is it depends on a variety of factors. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of men’s rock climbing shorts and leggings and help you decide which is right for you.
The Case for Shorts
Let’s start with the case for shorts. Shorts are often considered more comfortable than leggings, especially in warmer weather.
They allow for greater breathability and airflow, which can be a big advantage during long, strenuous climbs.
Also, shorts allow for a greater range of motion and flexibility. Because they don’t cover the legs, they can be more forgiving when it comes to high steps and other acrobatic moves.
They also tend to be lighter and less bulky than leggings, which can make a difference during more technical climbs.
Problem with Shorts for Rock Climbing
Of course, there are downsides to wearing shorts as well.
One of the biggest issues is the risk of chafing, which can be a painful and annoying problem for many climbers.
It’s important to choose shorts that fit well and don’t ride up or bunch and to use a good lubricant or anti-chafing product to minimize friction.
Another issue with shorts is that they don’t provide as much protection as leggings.
When climbing on rough rock, shorts can leave the legs vulnerable to scrapes and cuts, which can be painful and take time to heal.
For climbers who are more prone to injuries or who climb in areas with sharp rocks, leggings may be a better choice.
The Case for Leggings
So, what about leggings? Leggings offer several advantages over shorts, including better protection for the legs.
They can help prevent scrapes and cuts when climbing on rough rock, as we mentioned before.
Also, leggings can provide extra warmth and insulation in colder weather, which can be a big advantage during winter climbs. They also tend to be more durable than shorts and can withstand more wear and tear over time.
Problem with Leggings for Rock Climbing
One of the downsides of leggings is that they can be less flexible than shorts, especially when it comes to high steps and other acrobatic moves.
This can be a disadvantage for climbers who prefer more technical climbs or who need to be able to move quickly and smoothly.
Another issue with leggings is that they can be less breathable than shorts, which can be a problem in warmer weather.
They can also be heavier and bulkier than shorts, which can make a difference during long climbs or when carrying a heavy pack.
Which is better for you?
When you go rock climbing, it’s better to wear leggings than shorts. Leggings are stretchy and comfortable, and they fit your body well. This means you can move around easily, and they also protect your legs from getting scraped or cut.
Shorts are okay for bouldering because you don’t need to wear a harness, but they can cause scratches when you rub against the wall.
If you’re going on a long climb or the weather might change, it’s a good idea to wear climbing pants because they can keep you warm or cool as needed.
Both jeans and leggings are good for sport climbing or bouldering, but jeans are tougher and better for climbing rough rocks or cracks. So, if you’re going to climb off widths or physical cracks, wear jeans. So, go ahead and experiment with different men’s rock climbing shorts and leggings to find what works best for you. Happy climbing!
