10 Best Caving Accessories For Adventure-Driven Families
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Caving, or spelunking, is a thrilling adventure activity that can be enjoyed by families who love the outdoors. To make your caving experience safe and enjoyable, it’s essential to have the right gear. In this guide, we’ve reviewed the ten best caving accessories for outdoorsy families, each offering unique features to suit various caving needs and preferences.
Table of Contents
Quick Glance
| Accessory | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| PETZL TIKKA Headlamp | Best Overall | Bright LED, multiple lighting modes, compact, water-resistant |
| Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp | Best for Brightness | 400 lumens, waterproof, multiple modes, long battery life |
| PETZL CORAX Climbing Harness | Best Harness | Adjustable fit, versatile, durable, comfortable |
| Black Diamond ATC-Guide Belay Device | Best Belay Device | Lightweight, multi-functional, easy to use, durable |
| Mammut 9.8 Crag Classic Rope | Best Rope | High durability, easy handling, versatile, UIAA certified |
| PETZL Ascension Handled Ascender | Best Ascender | Ergonomic handle, efficient and secure, durable |
| Evolv Nighthawk Climbing Shoes | Best Climbing Shoes | Comfortable, durable, excellent grip, versatile |
| Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate Carabiner | Best Carabiner | Secure locking mechanism, easy to use, lightweight, durable |
| Petzl Grigri+ Belay Device | Best for Safety | Assisted braking, anti-panic handle, versatile, durable |
| Osprey Talon 22 Backpack | Best Backpack | Lightweight, comfortable, multiple compartments, hydration compatible |
1. Best Overall: PETZL TIKKA Headlamp
- Three white lighting levels: MAX BURN TIME, STANDARD (better power/burn time balance) and MAX POWER. Continuous red ligh…
- Battery charge indicator shows the battery level each time lamp is turned on or off
- Plate allows you to easily tilt the lamp up or down. Headlamp can be tilted upward to see ahead when worn around the nec…
The PETZL TIKKA Headlamp is our top pick for caving accessories. This headlamp features a bright LED with multiple lighting modes, providing ample illumination for exploring caves. It is compact, water-resistant, and has a long battery life, making it perfect for family caving adventures.
2. Best for Brightness: Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp
- Utah based Black Diamond has been producing premium quality outdoor equipment since 1957. All Black Diamond Headlamps in…
- Emits up to 400 lumens on max setting
- PowerTap Technology allows instant transitioning between full and dimmed power
The Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp is ideal for those who need a powerful light source. It boasts 400 lumens of brightness, is waterproof, and has multiple lighting modes. Its long battery life ensures it will last throughout your caving expedition, providing reliable illumination.
3. Best Harness: PETZL CORAX Climbing Harness
- MAXIMUM ADJUSTABILITY: Two DOUBLEBACK buckles on the waist belt enable perfect centering of the belay loop and gear loop…
- SIZED FOR EVERYONE: Two sizes fit most customers, making the CORAX an easy harness to size
- BUILT BETTER: Petzl’s FRAME technology pairs a time-tested design with superior modern materials, making the CORAX one o…
The PETZL CORAX Climbing Harness is a versatile and adjustable harness suitable for all family members. It is designed for comfort and durability, with adjustable leg loops and waistbelt, making it easy to fit various body types. This harness is perfect for caving and other climbing activities.
4. Best Belay Device: Black Diamond ATC-Guide Belay Device
- Updated construction makes the device 10% lighter with improved rope handling.
- Durable cable holds its shape and resists getting caught up
The Black Diamond ATC-Guide Belay Device is a lightweight and multi-functional belay device. It is easy to use, durable, and provides excellent control during belaying and rappelling. This device is a must-have for safe caving experiences.
5. Best Rope: Mammut 9.8 Crag Classic Rope
- Type: single
- Diameter: 9.8mm
- Static Elongation: 7%
The Mammut 9.8 Crag Classic Rope is known for its high durability and easy handling. It is versatile and UIAA certified, making it a reliable choice for caving and other climbing activities. Its robust construction ensures safety and longevity.
6. Best Ascender: PETZL Ascension Handled Ascender
- BETTER GRIP = EASIER ASCENTS: An ergonomic-molded handle allows a comfortable yet powerful grip. Wide opening allows the…
- INTUITIVE DESIGN: Wide lower hole allows the carabiners of the CONNECT ADJUST lanyard and FOOTAPE or FOOTCORD footloop t…
- DEPENDABLE PERFORMANCE: Great for ascending AND hauling. Ascender shape designed to help prevent accidental snagging. To…
The PETZL Ascension Handled Ascender is designed for efficient and secure ascents. It features an ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip and is durable enough to withstand rugged caving environments. This ascender is essential for safe and efficient climbing.
7. Best Climbing Shoes: Evolv Nighthawk Climbing Shoes
- EU Size: 34.5 – US Size: 3 (Big Kids’)
- A kids’ rock shoe for growing feet. Adjustable up to 2 full sizes. PSR 3.
- Evolv climbing shoes are not designed to be downsized. Evolv sizing uses three categories of fit: Max Performance. Ultra…
The Evolv Nighthawk Climbing Shoes offer comfort, durability, and excellent grip. They are versatile enough for various climbing activities, including caving. These shoes are designed to provide a snug fit and superior performance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable caving experience.
8. Best Carabiner: Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate Carabiner
- Utah based Black Diamond has been producing premium quality outdoor equipment since 1957. All Black Diamond carabiners i…
- Square hinge end holds belay loop securely in place
- Slightly curved spine maximizes gate opening
The Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate Carabiner features a secure locking mechanism and is easy to use. It is lightweight and durable, making it an essential accessory for caving. This carabiner ensures safety and reliability during climbing and rappelling.
9. Best for Safety: Petzl Grigri+ Belay Device
- PROGRESSIVE DESCENT CONTROL: 3:1 mechanical advantage of the camming mechanism helps smoothly control the rope and reduc…
- CAM-ASSISTED BLOCKING: Cam-assisted blocking ensures a comfortable belay—when the climber falls or weights the rope—the …
- COMFORTABLE and CONVENIENT: Simple to use for belaying both lead and top rope climbers. Rope installation diagram engrav…
The Petzl Grigri+ Belay Device is perfect for those prioritizing safety. It features assisted braking and an anti-panic handle, providing extra security during belaying. Its versatile design makes it suitable for various climbing activities, including caving.
10. Best Backpack: Osprey Talon 22 Backpack
- A versatile technical pack designed to accommodate dynamic body movement for those who prefer one pack with features gre…
- Precise, Breathable Fit – AirScape suspension provides a breathable close-to-body fit. A micro-adjustable sliding yoke o…
- Dual-zippered panel access to main compartment
The Osprey Talon 22 Backpack is lightweight, comfortable, and has multiple compartments for organizing your gear. It is hydration compatible and designed for outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for carrying your caving essentials.
Final Words
Selecting the right accessories for your caving adventures is essential for safety, comfort, and enjoyment. The options listed above cater to various preferences, from headlamps and harnesses to ropes and backpacks. Consider your caving needs, preferences, and budget to choose the best accessories that will enhance your family’s caving experiences.
