BLACK DIAMOND Positron Karabiner
A karabiner is an essential tool for caving, and the Positron Karabiner from Black Diamond is a popular choice. It has a keylock nose that prevents snagging, making it easy to clip in and out of gear. The gate has a smooth action and is easy to open, even with gloves on. The gate also features a hood that protects the keylock nose. This karabiner is made from durable materials that withstand heavy use. Black Diamond is a well-known brand in the caving community, and their products are known for their quality and dependability. The Positron Karabiner is priced around $7.LED Headlamps
A headlamp is critical for exploring caves. LED headlamps provide bright and long-lasting light. One popular choice is the Vont LED Headlamp, which is both lightweight and waterproof, making it ideal for caving. It has multiple modes that adjust to different lighting needs and can last up to 90 hours on a single battery. The headlamp strap is adjustable and comfortable for extended wear. The Vont brand is well-known for producing reliable headlamps at affordable prices. A Vont LED Headlamp can be purchased for approximately $13.Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet
A helmet is a must-have for caving. The Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet is a great choice due to its durable construction and comfortable fit. The helmet is made from a combination of EPS foam and a hard polycarbonate shell, providing both impact resistance and durability. It has a secure and adjustable fit system that works with most head sizes. Black Diamond is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that exceeds industry standards. The Half Dome Helmet can be purchased for around $60.Insulated Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important while caving, and an insulated water bottle keeps beverages at the desired temperature. The Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottle is a popular option due to its ability to keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours. The bottle is made from durable stainless steel and has a wide mouth for easy filling and pouring. The bottle comes with a lifetime warranty, and Hydro Flask is known for producing high-quality insulated products. The 21 oz. Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottle costs around $33.Darn Tough Socks
Socks are an often overlooked but crucial component of cave exploration. Darn Tough Socks are a popular choice for cavers due to their durability and moisture-wicking technology. They are made from a combination of Merino wool, nylon, and Lycra spandex, making them both comfortable and resilient. These socks are also antimicrobial, meaning that they stay fresh longer. Darn Tough is a family-owned brand based in Vermont, and their socks come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee. A pair of Darn Tough Socks can be purchased for roughly $23.Similar interests and resources
People interested in caving are often drawn to other outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing. These activities require similar skills and equipment, and many cavers also enjoy exploring the outdoors in different ways. The following resources are great for those interested in caving and other outdoor pursuits.- NSS-CDS (National Speleological Society Cave Diving Section): A community of cavers who also enjoy diving and exploring underwater caves.
- Outdoor Project: A comprehensive guide to outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and climbing.
- Hiking Project: A website that helps hikers find trails and plan hikes in their area.
- Backcountry: An online retailer that specializes in outdoor gear for a variety of activities, including caving.
- Climbing Magazine: A publication that covers rock climbing and other outdoor activities.