Basic Gear?

[Barney]

I'm a completely newbie in the sport of climbing. What is the most essential gear that I would need to start even thinking about it?

[le Metis]

I'm assuming you're interested in rock... thus basic gear

Rope - Kernmantle, dynamic. Nothing below 10.5mm. Suggest 11mm
Harness, climbing shoes, a belay device such as an ATC, a Figure 8, about a dozen self locking carabiners, a set of chocks/nuts, gloves, chalk, helmet, webbing for slings and etriers, 5 to 7 mm cord for prusiks, and a climbing partner...

You'll need to learn to repell, and belay. Suggest top rope training first for this, avoid lead climbing unless you've got a partner that knows how to do it safely.

You'll need to know these knots - Munter hitch, Grapevine, Figure 8 on a Bight, Water Knot, Alpine Hitch, Clove Hitch, Prusik...there are others, but these are the basics.

As I tell all new to the sport.....train low. During our work up for our El Cap climb we spent several months going no higher then 10 feet which allowed us to prefect slinging hammocks, belay seats, hauling systems and setting anchors.

[Gondor]

I was just wondering how much would a climbing partner cost? Just kidding but this info is really great, thank you for sharing it with us.

[le Metis]

Originally Posted by Gondor

I was just wondering how much would a climbing partner cost? Just kidding but this info is really great, thank you for sharing it with us.

the cost of a climbing partner.........................priceless

[Refrigerator]

How to Hire a Sherpa | eHow.com

[le Metis]

Let me suggest the following for you to check out

Harness - Black Diamond Momentum
Rope - Blue Water Enduro 11mm x 60 meters
Figure 8 - CMI Rescue Figure 8 with Ears
Belay Device - Black Diamond ATC

[charley]

Like so many things in climbing, it depends. It depends on how, where and with who you will be starting. If you start at a gym or with a guide service you may not need anything or they will tell you what you need. To start bouldering you should have climbing shoes.
You should not start toproping or lead climbing on your own.

[orchard]

Be brave (I am not a climber) but do shop smart. A few places around my area will say they specialize in the "best" gear no matter what activity you are planning and its not even quality stuff.