Canyoning Gear

As you are going to be frequently in and out of the water plus sliding down and climbing across hard rock surfaces, you need to have the right canyoning gear. Most canyoning trip companies will provide you with much of the following equipment. Nevertheless, remember to check exactly what is provided before you sign onto a trip, and get it in writing. You can also find all of this equipment to buy at specialist stores such as the one listed in our Canyoning Links section:

• Helmet - To protect your head against any nasty bumps or falling debris. You are going to be going down rock slides at times and if you are traveling at speed your head can be thrown backwards. A helmet will ensure this is not a problem.
• Wetsuit - Keeps you warm even when you are wet. It also provides a degree of protection against abrasive surfaces. Wet suits come in many types, you will most likely need a thick one to insulate you against the less than tropical UK weather.
• Canyoning harness - To allow you to be safely and comfortably lowered down large drops by rope.
• Neoprene socks - Or booties, to keep your feet dry.
• Buoyancy aid - To keep you afloat the water, especially in fast moving rapids. Short swims are a necessary part of navigating a canyon.
• Throw bag - Something your guide will probably have. This is a specialised weighted bag attached to a rope, which is thrown to someone in the water. The receiver catches it and can be hauled to dry land by the thrower.
• Neoprene elbow and knee guards - Not essential but a really nice extra level of protection for sensitive body parts, considering that you are going to be scrabbling around on slippery rocks.

Other items of clothing you may need to take are:

• Sports towel - Naturally, to dry off. Find a special sports towel that is quick drying and compact - you don’t want to be bulked down unnecessarily.
• Old pair of trainers - Your shoes are going to get wrecked with mud and water so leave your special edition adidas at home for this one. An old pair of canvas deck shoes should suffice.
• Canyoneer - The name given to a specialised canyoning shoes. Featuring rubber soles with excellent grip, polyurethane soles to protect your feet from sharp rocks, and a neoprene ankle collar to keep your ankles warm and give further protection.
• Waterproof rucksack - Otherwise known as a dry bag to keep spare clothes and other items in.
• Hard protective case - For your camera if you intend on taking one. It must also be water tight.
• Cellphone - As well as a protective cellphone cover. It could save your life if you get lost.
• Water bottle - Canyoning is thirsty work and you need a fresh supply of clean water to keep you going.