Exploring the great outdoors can be an exhilarating experience, and for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, via ferratas offer a unique and thrilling way to conquer rugged terrain. Via ferratas, which translates to ‘iron paths’ in Italian, are protected climbing routes that feature steel cables, ladders, and bridges fixed to the rock, enabling climbers to navigate steep cliffs with confidence. If you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey, acquiring your own via ferrata setup is essential. And I recently had a reader reach out asking if we purchased or rented our gear, and if so, wher to buy a via ferrata set? So today we’ll be looking at the gear you need and where to buy a via ferrata setup. A worth wile investment for anyone that’s thinking about getting into the hobby.
Reader Question: Where to Buy a Via Ferrata Set?
Why Buy vs Rent?
The biggest reasons to purchase your own setup is to save money, time and they will allow you to do certain routes without a guide. The biggest reason to buy is that it saves a lot over multiple trips. Rentals will run $30-$50, and guides will be $150 + tip per person. While the whole setup will only cost around $200. Next is time. Finding a place that rents via ferrata screams, then making the trip to get them all takes time out of your day. And lastly having your own gear allows you start doing the growing list of recreational via ferratas.
The Gear You Need
To do a via ferrata, you’ll need essential gear to ensure your safety and enhance your climbing experience. The necessary equipment includes a climbing helmet to protect your head, a via ferrata harness designed for weight distribution and comfort, a via ferrata lanyard with shock absorbers to connect you to the safety cable, climbing gloves for hand protection and improved grip, climbing shoes with excellent traction and support, suitable locking carabiners for connecting your lanyard, a small backpack for carrying essentials, weather-appropriate clothing, and a compact first aid kit for emergencies.
Gear Checklist
- Climbing Helmet
- Via Ferrata Harness
- Via Ferrata ‘Screamer” Lanyard
- Climbing Gloves
- Climbing Shoes
- Rest Carabiners
- Backpack
- Food & Water
- Weather-appropriate Clothing
- First Aid Kit
Where to Buy a Via Ferrata Set?
Via ferrata sets can be purchased from various outdoor and climbing gear retailers, both in physical stores and online. Here are of my favorite options for purchasing a via ferrata set:
Outdoor Retailers
My preferred place to shop for most of my outdoor gear. Visit specialized outdoor retailers, such as REI, MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op), Decathlon, or local climbing gear shops. They often have a dedicated section for climbing equipment, including via ferrata sets. This is where I tend to look first based on their customer support and return policy.
- My preferred online vendor is REI, they offer the best return and product guarantee in the industry.
Manufacturer Websites
It’s always good to support the brand directly. And most will even often get a discount for joining their mailing list. Check the websites of well-known climbing gear manufacturers. Companies like Petzl, Black Diamond, Edelrid, and Camp produce via ferrata sets and sell them directly through their websites.
- I use a Black Diamond Harness, Helmet, and Screamer, you can get them all directly from Black Diamond
Online Retailers
Explore online platforms that offer a wide range of outdoor gear, such as Amazon, Backcountry, Moosejaw, or OutdoorGearLab. These platforms typically have a variety of options and user reviews to help you make an informed decision. I prefer to shop directly through the brand or my trusted Co-op, but if the price is better or it’s the only place that has the item in stock, it’s good to know they have them.
Closing Thoughts
Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to research the different brands and models, considering factors such as safety features, durability, and user reviews. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the via ferrata set you choose meets relevant safety standards and is appropriate for your skill level and the specific via ferrata routes you plan to tackle. And don’t think about going the cheap route and trying something DIY. Originally I looked into this option, but found very quickly that DIY set ups don’t meet the requirement for a via ferrata fall. WHich can generate force higher than a rock climbing fall when on a vertical section. I know and trust the Black Diamond gear. Myself and my friends trust it with our lives, so it’s the one I feel confident recommending.
As always, if you have any questions about a via ferret setup, let me know in the comments below!