The FAQ is always in a constant state of update.  If there is a link that doesn’t exist yet, give it a few weeks! (Or email me asking for a video of something specific.)

What is slackline?
Slackline is a balance sport that’s been around for a few decades now. Practitioners walk or otherwise balance on 1″ wide tubular climbing webbing (if you’re not a rock climber, you may have seen similar material used in backpack straps). The line is pulled taut between two anchors, and depending on the tension and weight of the slackliner, it will sag ’slack’ somewhat. The dynamic tendency of the webbing makes for a lot more variation in experience, when compared to something like a tightwire. More info on slackline at wikipedia.

What do I need to start slacklining?
You’ll either need a slackline setup, or a buddy who doesn’t mind sharing. A typical beginner setup is around $35-50. For your first experience, it’s probably best to wait to purchase to make sure you actually enjoy slacklining; plus it helps to get a few tips from a more experienced slacker. If you’d like to try slacklining, drop me a line (adam at nwslackline dot org), and I’ll let you know when I’m next planning to head out.

Who sells slacklines?  Where can I buy one?
Slacklines are made from climbing gear (tubular 1″ webbing, and carabiners), so any rock climbing shop or good outdoor fitter (like REI, Fontana, etc) will have the stuff you need.  It is generally cheaper to buy the stuff yourself and assemble your own slackline kit.  That said, there are many retailers who will sell you a “complete” kit, requiring no effort on your part.  Most of these kits have little customizations made by each company based on their philosophy of how a slackline should be setup, and there is no right or wrong way, but you may find you do not like some of the ways (for instance, I strongly dislike ratchets for tightening lines; although they are easier to learn how to use they are somewhat dangerous to both people and equipment).  If you want to make your own slackline for $40-60, go here.  If you want to buy a pre-made kit, I would recommend:

• Balance Community.  This is a new web store started by a friend of mine in CA, who is also very interested in progressing the sport.  He and I share many views on how to most effectively setup lines, what constitutes safety, etc.  Jerry is working on a full line of “kits” — from beginner to pro, and unlike other sites kits, I actually agree with Jerry’s ideas on safety and durability.
• Gibbon Slacklines.  Gibbon created the first widely popular 2″ trickline, and has revolutionized the entire sport. Tricklining is a bit different from regular slackline. To figure out what is best for your style, see here.
• Slackline Brothers.  This site is run by Ric and Maria, who also run the slackline.com discussion forums.  I have only bought from them one time, but my item did eventually appear (their SBI pulleys), although it took a little while. Ric and Maria are honest people, I think they are just a little overwhelmed at times.  If I did not need an item right away, I wouldn’t hesitate to buy from them!