Via

Ferrata

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Via ferrata kit

The via ferrata kit  is the key piece of your whole gear, and your direct connection to the steel cable – ensuring you’re safe at all times while climbing. The kit is Y-shaped and consists of several interlocking components to secure you in case of a fall – and reduce the forces of impact.

Components and construction of a via ferrata kit

A regular via ferrata kit consists of the following components:

1. Via ferrata carabiner: Two special carabiners attached to elasticated lanyards. They are designed to smoothly and safely glide along the steel rope, while being easy to clip into anchor points.

2. Elasticated lanyards: The lanyards connect the carabiners to the integrated energy absorber, ensuring you can smoothly move along the steel cable. Thanks to their elasticity, they allow for a certain amount of stretchability.

3. Energy absorber: The key piece of your via ferret kit. It absorbs the energy of the arrest of any fall, and shields your body against extreme impact forces – vital for preventing injury as the result of a fall.If the energy absorber has already been triggered once, this is usually indicated by a label on the via ferrata kit itself. If that’s the case, you should under no circumstances use your set again, and replace it with a new one.

4. Attachment loop: The attachment loop is there to connect the via ferrata kit to your climbing harness. Robust and hardwearing in its construction, it’s there to withstand the forces set free by a fall. Always make sure the attachment loop is firmly connected to the harness to prevent it from accidentally coming undone.

1 Elastic arms

2 Resting loop

3 Pouch

4 Energy absorber

5 Tie-in loop

6 Carabiner

7 Swivel (Pro Turn only)

Key characteristics and selection criteria

When choosing a via ferrata kit, there are a number of things you need to watch out for. Make sure it conforms to current safety standards, and is certified as such (e.g. EN 958). This means the kit has undergone strict testing, and is safe to use. Also check if your own weight corresponds to the maximum weight the kit is designed to hold. Another important feature are carabiners that can be quickly and easily opened and closed to allow for quick changes between anchor points. For extra safety, many kits come with auto-locking mechanisms.

Important note:
Never, ever attempt to construct a via ferrata kit yourself using slings and runners, as the consequences may be dire: The dynamic absorption of the arrest of a fall is key. But if you’re using a regular sling to attach yourself to the steel cable, the fall will be absorbed statically, meaning your body will be exposed to incredible forces.

Climbing harness

A climbing harness  is another essential part of your climbing gear, ensuring you’re safely connected to your via ferrata kit. When you’re up high, your climbing harness will not only provide safety, but will also have a huge impact on your overall climbing experience – and how comfortable you are.

The via ferrata kit itself is attached to your climbing harness’ attachment loop via cow hitch. You’ll usually find detailed instructions on how to set everything up included with your via ferrata kit.

Selection criteria

• Fit: The climbing harness should fit tightly, but still give you plenty of room to move. The hip strap should hit your body above the hip bone, while the leg loops should be tight-fitting, but not pinch or cut into your thighs.

• Wearing comfort: Padded hip and leg loops provide comfort for longer, and prevent pressure marks. Harnesses made out of breathable materials can go a long way in increasing wearing comfort, particularly in warm weather.

• Adjustability: If anyone should adapt and change, it’s your climbing harness – definitely not you. Adjustable loops are the norm and provide plenty of wearing comfort, regardless of your body type and the amount of layers you’re wearing.

Climbing helmet

A climbing helmet  is essential to protect your head against rock fall, bumps and other dangers. This is especially important because you’re often moving under ledges and below fellow climbers. 

A great climbing helmet is both lightweight, fits like a glove, and provides good ventilation for added comfort and safety on long and strenuous routes. Most importantly: The helmet should be adjustable to fit various head shapes and sizes to prevent slipping or pinching. Generally, there are three types of climbing helmets: Hardshell, in-mold, and hybrid models.

Best gloves to wear for via ferrata

You’re probably asking yourself one question right now: Why would you need gloves for via ferrata in the first place? At first glance, they may not seem like a must-have. But once your hands have covered several grips, ladders and steel cables, which often have sharp braids and ends, you’ll be glad for that extra protective layer. Otherwise, the strain and rubbing against your skin can lead to painful blisters on fingers and palms.

Via ferrata gloves protect your hands and improve your grip. On top of that, they help keep you warm in colder weather to ensure you don’t lose dexterity and feeling in your fingers.

You can choose between two models: fingerless and full-fingered gloves. While fingerless gloves give you a better sense of touch and added dexterity, full-fingered gloves offer more protection and heat insulation. As a general rule, the gloves should fit perfectly (one could say like a glove), while giving you full freedom of movement. To prevent the gloves from slipping off your hands, make sure they can be fastened tightly around your wrist.

Best boots and shoes to wear for via ferrata

Various types of shoes are suitable for via ferrata, as long as you keep your requirements and the terrain in mind.

• Mid-high hiking shoes and boots  provide a great balance between stability and flexibility, making them a great choice for most via ferratas. They also give you extra protection and a better hold around the ankles.

• Approach shoes  are lightweight, yet sturdy shoes specifically designed for that part of the trek that takes you to the starting point of your route (you’ll find more info on this in our guide to approach shoes). They offer perfect grip and precision on rocky terrain, including via ferratas. 

• Via ferrata shoes and boots have been designed with via ferrata in mind, offering the best possible support and hold. They frequently also come with reinforced soles and added protective features.

Key features

A good sole for via ferrata needs to be torsion-resistant and suitable for climbing. The toe area should have a so-called “climbing zone” (fully made of rubber) to provide the friction you need for a good foothold on narrow steps and ledges. A grippy sole ensures a secure hold on rock and metal steps. To safely move in all kinds of terrain, a good tread is key.

The upper of the shoe should be breathable, water repellent and high enough to protect your ankles. When doing alpine tours, a high-top, closed-off upper is the way to go, whereas a more breathable upper is much better suited for climbing endeavors in warmer temperatures. 

As far as materials go, a mix of textile and leather is ideal. Leather is known for keeping its shape, while textiles are lighter and more flexible.

Other equipment for via ferrata

Aside from the must-have essentials, there are a number of other handy tools and gadgets that should be part of your via ferrata equipment:

• Slings  and additional carabiners  are versatile tools to help you in all kinds of situations. They are frequently used for taking breaks in between, but should never be used in place of a proper via ferrata kit.

• A small, lightweight backpack  is ideal for storing water, snacks, a first aid kit and additional clothing while you’re en route. Make sure the backpack sits well on your body and doesn’t restrict your movements. Additionally, it should be equipped with fixings for attaching your climbing helmet and other climbing gear.

• A compact first aid kit for emergencies and treating smaller injuries is vital. It should contain band-aids, disinfectant, gauze, painkillers and a rescue blanket. 

• A via ferrata guide or a topographic map of the area – whether paper or digital – will provide all the information you need about the route, as well as available exit points. A good via ferrata guide includes a detailed description of the routes, difficulty levels, approaches, as well as helpful tips for planning your route. 

• To pick the right clothing for via ferrata, check out our guide to outdoor climbing clothes, which is packed with lots of tips and insights.

The right equipment is key: Whether via ferrata kit, helmet, shoes or other equipment, every single piece is key to keeping you safe and comfortable while on the move. Here’s to your next outdoor climbing adventure!