Canyoneering Starter Kit

Canyoneering rappels are on static (low-stretch) rope for a smooth, controlled descent and because canyoneers pull the rope down after each rappel (a dynamic rope is bouncy and harder to pull). The rope must be longer than the longest rappel in the canyon, plus retrieval margin. Wet, muddy rope wears fast; inspect and retire it.

It has a padded seat (you hang in it for repeated rappels and squeezes) and durable gear loops that survive rock abrasion. A standard climbing harness cuts into you after a day of hanging. The canyon harness is built for the abuse and the comfort of a full canyon day.

A slot canyon is a drain — a storm miles upstream sends a wall of water through the narrows with no warning and no escape (the walls are unclimbable). Flash floods are the leading cause of canyoneering fatalities. Check the forecast for the entire watershed, not just where you are, and bail at the first sign of rising water or changing clarity.

A pothole is a water-filled depression with smooth, unclimbable walls — a trap you swim into and cannot get out of without technique (pack toss, partner assist, a rope). Escaping them is a skill you learn before you need it; an un-escapable pothole is a rescue or a fatality. Canyon ratings include the pothole difficulty; know the escape before you drop in.