Gear Guide

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Minimum Safety Kit

This is the floor. Every climber on every route must have all of the following. Items marked CRITICAL are non-negotiable — do not attempt a route without them.

• RopeCritical
• HarnessCritical
• Belay device + locking carabinerCritical
• HelmetCritical
• Prusik cord 5mm 1.5m length x2

  Emergency ascent backup. Learn to use it before you go.

• Whistle

  Signal for rescue — carries further than shouting.

• Basic first aid: bandages, SAM splint, ibuprofen

  Approach trail ankle injuries happen.

• Emergency contact card in Portuguese and English

  Write nearest hospital number for each climb zone on a waterproof card.

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What You Can Rent in Brazil

Guide outfitters in Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte stock these items at reasonable day rates. Good option if you are flying carry-on only or just starting out.

• ✓Helmet (R$20/day from guide outfitters)
• ✓Climbing shoes (R$20-35/day, Rio and BH only)
• ✓Harness (R$25/day)

Never Rent These

The Brazilian rental gear market is not well-regulated. Two categories of equipment have documented safety risks as rentals:

• ⚠

  Your rope — rental ropes in Brazil are often worn beyond safe limits. Buy a new one at Decathlon in Rio, BH, or SP.

• ⚠

  Cams and nuts for trad routes — quality varies widely. Bring a verified rack.

Where to Buy Gear in Brazil

Decathlon stores in Brazil carry the Simond range — including dry-treated ropes, helmets, and harnesses at competitive prices. A 60m Simond dry rope runs R$380–520. Also check Penhasco Vertical in Rio Barra da Tijuca for Black Diamond and Wild Country.