Climbing a rock is an exciting, fun-filled and adventurous activity, however, there are many dangers involved. Climbing rock formations is a challenging task that requires physical strength, endurance, mental focus, concentration, the use of appropriate equipment, and relevant climbing skills.
This activity adds up to the list of achievements for so many people, creates an avenue for socializing, and in most cases, ignites friendship between rock climbers as they engage in conversations on challenges faced or experiences gathered on the rock.
Things can get really windy up on the mountains. In such situations, you can’t simply call out to fellow climbers because they won’t hear your voice, especially if you’re all far apart.
Cases like this can be a bit frustrating and dangerous especially during emergencies. You just might save yourself some energy for the journey ahead as well as avoid possible mishaps if you use a walkie talkie.
Most Rock climbers have recently realized the usefulness of having a walkie talkie while climbing, as it creates an atmosphere for easy communication and an air of safety.
To ensure a smooth rock-climbing adventure, you should look out for walkie talkies with exclusive and remarkable features that support the activity.
Top 5 Best Two Way Radios for Rock Climbers: By Best Feature
Buyer Guide: Critical Factors to Consider before you Buy a Walkie Talkie for Rock Climbing
1. Battery Life/ Price
If you will be needing a walkie talkie for climbing purposes, you should consider getting one with a long battery life that can last long hours without charging. Another option to look out for is a walkie talkie with a battery that is replaceable.
If you have to climb for a week on the rocks, it’s important to grab some spare batteries. You would also want to carry out your research on fantastic walkie talkies within the range of what you can afford without overly stretching your pockets.
2. Range
Before getting any type of walkie talkie, the range is apparently the most important factor to consider. The walkie talkie you need for Rock climbing is one that covers a wide area. Though mountains could block transmission at intervals when climbing, you may need as much as a 20 to 35-mile range with very good signal quality.
3. Rugged
When shopping for walkie-talkies for rock climbing, you should look out for one that is rugged and packs enough power.
Your walkie talkie when hung on your body is most likely to hit against the rocks, it is therefore important that you have a solidly-built walkie talkie that can withstand sudden hits or harsh conditions on the rock.
Another thing to look out for is an all-weather model. If you’re to climb in the rain or snow, you most likely will be needing a waterproof walkie talkie that prevents rain from affecting the device.
4. Weight/Convenience
Being stressed with extra weight or having to adjust your walkie talkie at intervals is the last thing you want to do when climbing.
A heavy walkie talkie will cause great discomfort, so it is important you opt for portable and super light walkie talkies because keeping the weight light is safer and allows a quick climb. Before you buy a two-way radio for rock climbing, you should look out for easy ways to carry them.
Models with robust belt clips or carabiner attachments and cords which allow you attach the radio on different parts of the body are best.
With such features, you can sufficiently secure your walkie talkie and you can pull up your device to talk without fear of losing it or even enjoy hands-free communication.
It will be easier attaching it close to your chest where all you have to do is push the voice button and communicate without taking your hands off the rocks.
5. Channels/Sound
For the purpose of climbing, you should consider a model that has good sound quality as well as many channels you can select from quickly and easily. This will allow smooth communication especially during an emergency or in the case of heavy traffic.
While such models might be quite expensive, they present you better options in scanning for channels with access to multiple radio channels. You also need to carry out your research to find the best frequencies among the available options on the high moutains.
The VHF radios work relatively well and with minimal interference on rocky terrains, but UHF frequencies are better able to penetrate through concrete.
Top 5 Best Walkie Talkies for Rock Climbing
1. ANSIOVON Walkie Talkie-Rechargeable Long Range Two Way Radio
Best for: Value for Money
This is a rugged set of four walkie talkies suitable for rock climbing. It has great sound quality and a good antenna that allows clear transmission, as well as reception. This particular brand has a way of dealing with intrusion, thereby protecting your privacy.
It also comes with earpiece for easy communication and convenience while climbing. This is a set of four walkie talkies you should consider picking up before your next rock-climbing adventure with friends.
Specifications of ANSIOVON Walkie Talkie-Rechargeable Long Range Two Way Radio
- FRS/GMRS dual-service
- UHF 400-470MHz frequency range
- 1-6 miles Distance range.
- 1500 mAh Li-ion battery
- VOX function
- Dual charging methods
- 12-90 hours battery life
- Set of four radios
Pros and Cons of ANSIOVON Walkie Talkie
Pros
- One year warranty.
- Automatic over-charge and discharge protection.
- Auto power saving mode
- Belt clip for ease
- Sturdy body
- Hands free function
Cons
- This walkie talkie is not waterproof, it might be affected when there’s sudden rain
2. Retevis RB26 Two Way Radio Walkie Talkies
Best for: Battery Life
The Retevis RB26 is a well-built multi-purpose, two-way radio walkie talkie with excellent performance and is suitable for Rock climbing. It’s sturdy body and antenna can withstand strong collisions against the rocks.
This two-way radio transmits and receives clear signals when you’re up the mountain and also produces clear sounds. This walkie talkie also comes with a VOX option so you keep talking hands-free and avoid inconveniences when climbing.
Specifications of Retevis RB26 Two Way Radio
- Compact external features.
- 30 memory channels
- 2000mAh inbuilt battery with 8-12 hours of use.
- Led flashlight.
- Emergency alarm.
- Hands-free enabled with iVOX/VOX feature.
- Micro USB interface.
Pros and Cons of Retevis RB26 Two Way Radio
Pros:
- Sturdy and Portable.
- Effective for nighttime work and SOS operations.
- Loud audio output and refined sound.
- Quite affordable.
- Fast charging benefits.
Cons:
- It does not have a relatively wide distance range
3. SOCOTRAN Walkie Talkies
Best for: Audio Clarity
If you’re looking for a portable walkie talkie that is compact and lovely for adventures, durable and has good power supply, then this walkie talkie is what you have been on the lookout for.
This Socotran walkie talkie has a long battery life which is essential for mountain/rock climbing. It also has a whole lot of channels to switch to whenever there is a signal jam.
This walkie talkie is a remarkable brand, allows easy and clear communication with partners while rock climbing, with one of the best audio clarity feature you can find anywhere.
Specifications of SOCOTRAN Walkie Talkies
- 22 channels
- Long range of up to 5 miles
- CTCSS and DCS feature further aids audio signal quality
- Good sound quality
- 2000mAh rechargeable batteries for up to 12 hours use time.
- Rechargeable battery with USB support.
- Reasonably potable at 3.93 x 1.96 x 0.78 inches
Pros and Cons of SOCOTRAN Walkie Talkies
Pros:
- Exceptional audio clarity.
- Very strong signals.
- Good battery life.
- Very durable.
- Different charging options.
Cons:
- Not great range.
4. Motorola Talkabout T460 Rechargeable Two-Way Radio
Best for: Range
From its wide range to its weatherproof features that allow you detect terrible weather conditions in good time, this walkie talkie is one of the most preferred radios for rock climbing enthusiasts.
This two-way radio comes as a pair and its VOX feature- which is more of a speakerphone- allows hands-free communication for climbers while moving up the rocky terrains without having to pause.
The Motorola Talkabout T460 takes its rightful place as one of the most exceptional walkie talkies for Rock climbing. It has various channels to select from, multiple privacy codes and a reliable weather detector. It is also light weighed and very potable to carry while climbing.
Specifications of Motorola Talkabout T460 Two-Way Radio
- 22 Channels
- 121 Privacy Codes
- 35-mile range
- Set of 2 radios.
- NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts
- Built-in Flashlight
- Emergency Alert Button
- IP54 Weatherproof
- Dual Power
- PTT Power Boost
- iVOX/VOX Hands-free
- 3AA batteries on the go for up to 21 hours.
Pros and Cons of Motorola Talkabout T460 Two-Way Radio
Pros:
- Very long range for extended reach.
- 24/7 access to emergency alert to get help easily.
- Includes weather alert to keep you safe.
- License-free FRS radio frequency.
- Water resistant.
- Easy charging.
- Very easy to move around with.
Cons:
- Actual range might be limited by weather conditions and terrains.
5. SAMCOM Walkie Talkie
Best for: Durability
The Samcom walkie talkie provides you with strong penetration and long antenna, thereby allowing clear communication with your friends and fellow rock climbers. The private CDCSS code in each channel prevents unwanted signals from interrupting your conversations.
This walkie talkie has a knob that rotates 360° to switch the channels, an adjustable volume level, and an in-built speaker and microphone with additional ear-bud attachments for effective communication. I strongly recommend this particular two way radio if durability is a big factor for you.
Specifications of SAMCOM Walkie Talkie
- 20 channels with 5W strong penetration and long antenna.
- Frequency range is UHF 400-470MHz; between 1-5 miles.
- Built-in 1500mAh rechargeable battery
- IP54 waterproof and anti-drop
- Built-in speaker and mic with additional ear-bud attachments.
Pros and Cons of SAMCOM Walkie Talkie
Pros:
- Good sound production
- Lifetime Warranty
- Can monitor multiple channels
- Long-lasting 1500 mAh batteries.
- K-Type Earpiece Included.
- Battery saving mode included.
- Can be used in rain or snow.
Cons:
- Low coverage
Comparison of Top 5 Walkie Talkies for Rock Climbing
| ANSIOVON Walkie Talkies | Retevis RB26 Walkie Talkies | SOCOTRAN Walkie Talkies | Motorola Talkabout T460 Walkie Talkie | SAMCOM Walkie Talkie | |
| Range | 1-6 miles | 2 miles | 1-5 miles | 35 miles | 5 miles |
| Battery Life | 12 hours | 12 hours | Up to 35 hours | 21 hours | 12 hours |
| UHF/VHF | UHF | UHF | UHF | UHF | UHF |
| Channels | 16 | 30 | 22 | 22 | 20 |
| Protection | Sturdy build | Rugged body | None | Weatherproof | Water resistant |
Final Words:
Having quality and reliable walkie talkies is extremely important when you are rock climbing. With an efficient radio at your side when you climb to the top of the rocks, communication is easier, quicker and more relaxing between rock climbers. It also reduces the urge to panic or get worried over misinterpretation in rope tugs or movements. Originally, ropes are tied to the bodies of climbers and through movements of the ropes and specific ways of tugging at it, a message is passed if one is on and off belays or during emergencies. Out of the many brands of Walkie Talkies to search for, we have been able to highlight and review 5 of the best walkie talkies for rock climbing. Please do well to select any of these for your next rock-climbing adventure.
