Spelunking

What is spelunking?

Spelunking, also called caving, is the exploration of underground caves.

How to spelunk

Spelunking is the exploration of underground caves. The people who do this are called cavers. The sport involves rock climbing, exploring, and sometimes camping in caves for days at a time. Spelunking requires strength to climb rocks, and agility to climb over rocks, squeeze through tight spaces, climb ropes and move from cave to cave.

Equipment

Helmet – protects the head from contact with the rocks, and holds an electric lamp or flashlight so the caver can see ahead
Boots – waterproof; good for climbing and for movement through underground rivers
Gloves – help the caver climb and grip ropes
Jump suit – a full-body suit that is waterproof and helps keep the body warm
Crawal – a hitch or metal clamp that attaches to the suit, to help hold the rope during climbing