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To tackle a via ferrata, three pieces of equipment are essential: a helmet, a harness and, of course, a via ferrata set. Beyond that, a few other items belong in your backpack too. Our checklist shows you exactly what to pack, and further down you will find a closer look at each piece of equipment.
Want to test your gear directly on the mountain? Every year, we host the Sport Conrad Via Ferrata Testival. Together with professional mountain guides, you will be out in small groups and can try modern via ferrata equipment from top brands such as Mammut, Black Diamond and La Sportiva directly on the rock. Secure your ticket now!
Via ferrata checklist to download
Check your gear before the tour and see what you really need for a via ferrata.
The essentials at a glance
- 🧗 Helmet, via ferrata set and climbing harness are the key pieces of basic equipment for every via ferrata tour.
- 🥾 Approach shoes give you reliable grip on rock, scree and the walk in.
- 🎒 A lightweight, compact climbing backpack has space for your rain jacket, sun protection, first-aid kit, phone, food and water.
- 🌦️ Weather can change quickly in the mountains. A rain jacket, warm layer and suitable outdoor clothing should always be chosen with care.
- 🧤 Via ferrata gloves, a sling, headlamp, bivy bag or short climbing rope can be useful depending on the route, weather and group.
- ✅ Before setting off, always check your equipment and make sure everything is packed. Our via ferrata checklist helps you stay on top of it.
Via ferrata: the equipment you need to bring
The following gear belongs on almost every via ferrata tour. It forms the basis for your safety, helps you deal with changing mountain conditions and should always be checked carefully and packed completely.
√ Comfortable, durable outdoor clothing
√ Lightweight, compact climbing backpack
√ Sun protection
√ Mobile phone
√ ID card and alpine club membership card
Via ferrata: optional equipment
Depending on the route, season, weather and experience level of your group, additional gear can be useful. Especially on longer via ferratas, in uncertain weather or when you are out with children or beginners, it is worth packing a little extra.
√ Sling with carabiner for short rests along the way
√ Short climbing rope and belay device for belaying children or beginners
√ Change of clothes
√ Bivy bag
√ Headlamp
√ Crampons
√ Ice axe
Equipment details for your via ferrata
Here is a closer look at what you should pay attention to when buying your first via ferrata equipment.
The via ferrata set
A via ferrata set is essential for any via ferrata, also known as an “iron path”. It is attached to the climbing harness with a loop. Two lanyards extend forward in a Y shape, with a special via ferrata carabiner attached to the end of each elastic arm. You use these carabiners to clip into the steel cables on the via ferrata. Important: both carabiners must always be clipped in. When changing between cable sections, one carabiner always stays attached.
So does that mean you are completely safe? That depends. Even with safety equipment, falls on a via ferrata must be avoided, as they can lead to serious injuries. If you do fall, the integrated energy absorber, the small package between the loop and the lanyards, extends the fall slightly and reduces the forces acting on your body. However, due to the terrain and possible fall height, you are not fully protected from injury. The main purpose of the via ferrata set is to prevent a complete fall.
Here you will find our latest market overview of the best via ferrata sets.
Carabiners come with different locking mechanisms, so it is worth testing which system feels best for you before buying. Some via ferrata sets also feature swivels, which help stop the lanyards from twisting around each other.
Via ferrata sets are usually designed for users weighing between 40 and 120 kilograms. Only within this weight range can they provide reliable protection. Be especially careful with children. There are a few sets designed for a weight range of 30 to 80 kilograms, which can also be suitable for lighter adults.
The climbing harness for via ferrata
There are specific climbing harnesses for via ferrata use, usually with only minimal padding. Since you rarely sit in the harness for long when climbing a via ferrata, weight and freedom of movement are especially important. Most importantly, your harness should feel comfortable and secure.
For children, a full-body harness that also supports the upper body can be a good choice, as it provides additional stability.
Non-negotiable: the helmet
For a via ferrata, you should use a climbing helmet. The most important thing is that it fits well and feels comfortable. In general, there are two main helmet types: hard-shell helmets, which are very robust and durable, and in-mold helmets, which are lighter but more delicate. Both offer good protection.
Sling for a quick break on the via ferrata
As an optional extra, you can bring a sling with a screwgate or HMS carabiner. It lets you sit back in your harness for a short rest without putting unnecessary strain on your via ferrata set or hanging too far away from the steel cable.
Good footwear
Approach shoes are suitable for most via ferratas. Many models have a climbing zone, a grippy area at the front of the sole, and can be laced very precisely. They are often protected with a rubber rand and have a medium-stiff sole. For very difficult and demanding via ferratas, you can also pack your climbing shoes.
The right clothing
We recommend flexible and durable climbing clothing, ideally worn in layers. Even if you work up a sweat on the way up, you do not want to cool down too quickly or get cold on the descent.
Depending on the weather forecast, shorts may be an option, but long trousers will protect you better from scrapes. Tops made with merino wool provide warmth, help regulate temperature when you sweat and dry quickly.
Since the weather in the mountains can change at any time, you should always pack a lightweight rain jacket just in case, plus a warm layer if needed. A change of clothes can also be useful, so you can change at the top or after the route.
Via ferrata gloves
Special via ferrata gloves are particularly useful if you have sensitive hands or are planning longer routes. Holding onto steel cables for a long time can become painful without them.
Backpack: light and compact
A small, lightweight climbing backpack is a great choice for via ferrata tours. Make sure there are not too many straps or loops on the outside, as they can get caught on the rock or cable. Try not to attach your bottle or jacket to the outside either, as this can also increase the risk of snagging.
Do not forget food and water
Make sure you pack enough water. On longer tours in particular, it is important to avoid dehydration. Having an energy bar with you is always a good idea too. And maybe a small piece of chocolate for the summit reward.
Essential: emergency equipment
- First-aid kit: It might only be a small scrape, but on a via ferrata you will still be glad to have a plaster. A first-aid kit with an emergency blanket should therefore be in every backpack.
- Headlamp: A headlamp belongs in your emergency kit and should always be in your backpack if you are heading out early in the morning or late in the day.
- Mobile phone: For safety reasons, it makes sense to carry a phone. If you are unsure, check beforehand whether you will have reception on your chosen route.
- Bivy bag: Useful for setting up an emergency bivouac in critical or unexpected situations.
High-quality brands for your via ferrata equipment
When choosing your via ferrata equipment, quality, fit and reliable safety standards matter. Brands such as Edelrid, Petzl, Mammut, Salewa and Black Diamond have stood for high-quality mountain sports gear and functional details for many years. They invest in material research, certifications and practical features for use in the mountains. The differences often show in handling, durability and innovations that give you more safety and control when it counts. You can find out which brand suits you best in one of our stores or directly at the Via Ferrata Testival.
Conclusion: the right equipment for via ferrata
With the right via ferrata equipment, you can move more safely and confidently in the mountains. Helmet, via ferrata set and climbing harness form the essential basis. Good footwear, weatherproof clothing, a lightweight backpack, food, water and emergency equipment are also part of a well-prepared setup. Depending on the tour, extra items such as via ferrata gloves, a sling, headlamp or short rope can be useful. Before every tour, check that your equipment is complete, intact and correctly adjusted. Our via ferrata packing list helps you make sure you do not forget anything important.