Canyoneering Equipment

Drybags:

Drybags are an optional canyoneering item. It is important to understand first which canyon you are going to venture and make your decision on drybag necessity. Although often filled with water, a short canyon like the Key Hole or Pine Creek in Zions are so short that you can be back to civilization within several hours of starting the trip without taking a lot of gear that needs to stay dry. However canyons like Heaps or Imlay take a considerable more amount of time to get through and having dry clothing, first aid or other dry items may be required. More often than not it comes down to preference.

Packs:

Choose the pack for the canyon. Every canyon is different. Lightweight is always the way to go in canyoneering. Canyons like Imlay or Heaps will require a considerable more amount of gear than the Key Hole, so bring the pack you feel most comfortable taking. Be warned big bulky packs can be very difficult taking through a canyon especially where there is scrambling, swimming, etc.  Also the bigger the pack in the tougher it is to pack out.
Recommendation:
Imlay Canyon Gear
Grundens – 100% waterproof and durable!

Gloves:

Gloves are really only necessary when handling ropes and long rappels. There is nothing wrong with a good glove however for simple canyoneering. Your hands can get a bit torn up or pruney and protection can be a nice luxury. Whatever glove you go with I recommend one that is light weight and durable.
Recommendation:
Metolius Fingerless Glove
Chota Warm Water Glove
Chota ¾ Finger Glove

Shoes:

Choosing the right shoe is very important when canyoneering. Five Finger Toe sandals or open toe sandals is not recommended. Your feet can take quite a beating. A good sturdy boot or shoe is recommended. Plan to get your feet wet regardless of what you bring.

Rope:

A climbing nylon rope is not as good as a polyester static rope when canyoneering. The polyester absorbs less water and you’re not climbing so a dynamic rope is not needed. Extra rope is always nice just in case.

Hardware:

You don’t need bolting gear for many canyons, but once you venture into the canyons of a 3 rating or higher having extra gear for emergencies is nice to have. It is also recommended to have extra gear on any canyoneering adventure for emergencies. Remember canyons with a rating of 3 or more require rope work so be prepared. Also some canyons that are not visited as often with a 3 rating or higher require extra gear just in case.

Clothing:

Read up on the canyon you’ll be visiting. Canyons with extended water courses may require wetsuits or even a dry suit. Hypothermia is a real dangerous condition that can lead to death if you’re not careful. Dress for the weather. If it’s 114 degrees Fahrenheit on the surface you may realize cold weather gear is not needed,but do not underestimate how cold the water courses may be in a canyon and may need to pack a wetsuit. Many deaths have occurred because someone didn't realize how frigid water can be down in a canyon. Hats and scarves are great in hot weather climates.

Good place for gear: http://www.store.canyoneeringusa.com/