Via ferratas are one of the best ways to enter the vertical world – without needing to know how to climb traditionally. They combine hiking, climbing, and adrenaline, and are accessible to almost everyone.
If you're tempted to try your first via ferrata, here's a clear and practical guide on how to start safely and without unnecessary mistakes.
What exactly is a via ferrata?
A via ferrata (Italian for "iron path") is a protected climbing route in the rock, equipped with:
- a steel cable
- stemples (iron footholds)
- ladders
- sometimes bridges
Using special equipment, you are clipped to the cable the entire time. That sounds simple enough, doesn't it? But don't be fooled. Even via ferratas can be tricky. Lack of strength, a long fall between anchor points, or perhaps slippery metal, which is more treacherous than rock.
Is a via ferrata suitable for beginners?
Short answer: yes – but not all of them.
Via ferratas have a difficulty scale:
- A–B → easy (ideal start)
- C → medium
- D–E → challenging (strength + experience)
You don't have to be an athlete, but it helps to have:
- basic fitness
- some arm strength
- confident movement
More important than strength is:
- calmness
- technique
- body awareness
Via ferratas have one special quality – they are addictive.
- you see progress quickly
- you overcome fear
- you get to places you wouldn't normally go
Essential gear and clothing for via ferratas
Mandatory equipment:
- via ferrata set (fall arrester + carabiners)
- climbing harness
- helmet
- gloves (to prevent abrasion from the steel cable)
- sturdy shoes with good grip
Seriously, don't underestimate the gloves. As you'll find out, holding onto metal cables/stemples is really hard on your fingers (and especially knuckles). And that's not even mentioning abrasions.
Beginners often only focus on equipment, but clothing makes a huge difference.
What works:
- elastic pants (don't restrict movement)
- technical T-shirt (wicks away sweat)
- light jacket (wind on the wall is common)
Check out our offer - nothing beats a 100% natural cotton T-shirt, or a functional sports bra.
Complete offer of T-SHIRTS made from 100% and synthetic functional materials.
Don't try to over-combine or "over-think" what you wear on your legs. Overalls or cargo pants with lots of pockets are not the right way – that's what a backpack is for. A climber climbs light, carrying everything else on their back. Pockets are not important. Clothing must be light, functional, and not get in the way.
For example, check out our PANTS, LEGGINGS AND SHORTS. You'll find many pieces that satisfy many Czech and Slovak climbers.
How to move on a via ferrata
A via ferrata set has two carabiners – and they are your life insurance.
- at least one carabiner must always be clipped to the cable
- when re-clipping, proceed one at a time
- never unclip both at once (not even for a second)
- at an anchor point (metal anchor in the rock), clip one first, then the other
Automate it – eventually, you'll do it without thinking.
Climb with your legs, not your arms
This is the most important principle.
Beginners make the mistake of:
- hanging on their arms
- pulling themselves up
- quickly getting physically exhausted
Correctly:
- 90% of the work is done by the legs
- arms are mainly for stability
- look for footholds (rock, stemples, small protrusions)
If you feel your "arms are giving out," you're doing it wrong.
Keep your body close to the rock
The further you are from the rock, the more you:
- burden your arms
- lose stability
Correctly:
- keep your center of gravity as close to the wall as possible
- straighten up (don't lean back)
- support yourself with your legs
Imagine you are "standing on the rock," not hanging from it.
Think about your route
Before you make a move:
- look where you'll place your foot
- find the next handhold
- plan your movement
This will:
- save your strength
- reduce stress
- improve your confidence
Experienced climbers "read the rock," they don't climb blindly.
No online guide can ever replace a quality course. If you're not sure if you want to tackle it solo, seek out an instructor.
If you don't know where to try via ferratas for the first time, check out our TOP 5 VIA FERRATAS IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC AND SLOVAKIA.