Rappelling belay reviews. The Verso and other tube-style devices are ideal for .

Rappelling belay reviews By Rappelling (or abseiling) may be the safest and fastest way of descending. It falls in the middle of the pack in terms of weight and diameter of ropes with which it is compatible Aug 26, 2021 · Here, I present a comparison review of Black Diamond’s ATC Belay/Rappel Device (ATC) and ATC-Guide/Rappel Device (Guide)—I believe that ATCs still have an important place in rock climbing. Included: Rappelling gear list, what is rappelling, rappelling styles and more! Dec 5, 2024 · Lowering and Rappelling Lowering a climber with the Vergo, or rappelling a single strand rope, is quite easy. The Verso and other tube-style devices are ideal for Jun 5, 2025 · A harness is an essential part of every climber’s kit, and we've identified the best climbing harnesses for every kind of climber. Aug 2, 2023 · We recommends Top-Rated Climbing Belay & Rappel Equipment Deals You Can Buy Online for November 2025 on Amazon, As Tested by CherryPicks Editors and analyzed 11,895 customer reviews to Sports & Outdoors products. After researching 35+ of the best, this review pits four of the best models side-by-side, all tested while multi-pitch climbing and big walling. May 21, 2024 · Looking for a new ascender for your next vertical adventure? Our team has decades of big wall and rescue experience and has tested over 20 of the best ascenders side-by-side. Assisted-braking belay devices are commonplace at crags and gyms. It also allows rappelling in both standard and auto-blocking modes. Nov 10, 2020 · Amazon. Feb 21, 2019 · Here, we review and recommend the best assisted-braking belay devices for rock climbing. Our team field tested all of these products, climbing big walls in Yosemite and Zion Apr 4, 2025 · We tested 13 climbing ropes from Sterling, Petzl, Edelrid, Mammut, and others to find the best options for you. Keep Your Safety: high-strength ATC V-grooved belay device with teethed channel, reduce the abrasion of the rope when descending, and it is not easy to cause rope winding and knotting. Amazon. Therefore, the Cinch no longer Jan 31, 2016 · The Mammut Smart Alpine is one of the more established models within the field of passive assisted locking, or “ hybrid, ” belay devices. Whether you're learning to belay in the gym or preparing to Feb 21, 2020 · The Wild Country Revo is a complicated looking belay device that actually performs very simply in the hands of the belayer. Since the inception of the original Grigri 1, the Grigri has continued to set the standard for belay devices with cam-assisted blocking (braking). 5mm) strengthens its case for use with twin or half ropes. Jan 5, 2025 · What are the best climbing belay & rappel equipment products in 2025? We analyzed 1,995 climbing belay & rappel equipment reviews to do the research for you. Dec 10, 2020 · Concise belay gloves reviews tailored to you needs. Dec 5, 2024 · The Petzl GriGri is an active assisted-braking device that performs well in every belaying and lowering task, earning our highest honor as the best belay device on the market. It can be used for all climbing functions on a single rope, including lead belaying, top rope belaying, and single-strand rappelling. I needed a lightweight, reliable device capable of handling both belaying a second and safely rappelling long distances. Wrapping the rope around ears can increase the friction and slow down the descending speed. Choosing Rappelling Gloves for a safe rappel can be confusing. This is the archetypical manual Dec 18, 2009 · The GiGi has the least amount of friction of any belay device in the review. 4mm rope. Switching between the Jan 31, 2016 · The Petzl Verso is one of the lightest and smallest of all and features the same smooth rope handling as its more popular cousin, the Petzl Reverso. This evolution of the successful Mega Jul (winner of our 2014 Editors’ Choice Award) is a single tube Jun 26, 2003 · The Reverso ($21, 2. Take your belay game to the next level. The top devices for rappelling are: The Petzl PIRANA Sterling ATS Petzl Stop Designer The Edelrid Giga Jul The SQWUREL 2 The Black Diamond ATC These devices are good for different uses. In this comparative review seven of the currently available models go head to head. Aug 20, 2024 · Did you know that GearLab started out as an offshoot of the acclaimed climber's resource, SuperTopo? It only makes sense that we'd have in-depth reviews for the best climbing gear on the market. In the event of a fall, expected or unexpected Jun 12, 2023 · 10 individually rated and reviewed Climbing Belay and Rappel Equipment, plus our expert buying guide to help you choose the best product for you. Also, I mostly belay folks who are 50-80lbs heavier than me so having a belay glove on the lower is much more comfortable. All of these modes allow for a nearly endless number of options when lead belaying, belaying the second, or rappelling, making this the most versatile device we have used. It provides considerable bite for catching lead falls, and it locks off by itself when your partner needs to rest, just like active-assisted brake devices. Because we believe the best belay gloves are not the best for everyone. From big wall gear like ascenders and haul bags to everyday necessities like rock climbing ropes and top-rated carabiners, we have you covered. Jul 25, 2023 · The Grigri is an assisted braking belay device designed for climbing inside or outdoors. Our top pick overall is the Petzl Attache. When the rope is weighted the angle of the device changes, locking the rope down, though, as we mentioned above, you still need to keep your brake hand on the rope. It's not the absolute cheapest option but is the lowest priced one in our review. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. The Cinch has lost its status as the lightest and smallest assisted locking model and new passive options now retail for half the price. Rappelling is the controlled slide down a climbing rope primarily using a tubular belay device. While other devices require lifting a handle into a position that allows one to smoothly feed slack without locking up the device, the ClickUp + instead uses Jan 31, 2016 · The Black Diamond ATC XP is one of our favorite manual belay devices and provides an excellent value. Its superior performance with skinnier ropes (down to 7. We’ll also discuss some of the common problems people face when choosing one, like understanding the different features and how they work. This unique device accommodates the need for various friction settings on rappel and belay, as well as auto lock-off belay options. In my 30+ years of climbing and mount… Nov 20, 2019 · The Edelrid Giga Jul belay device, MSRP: $50 Edelrid’s new Giga Jul looks deceptively like your standard two-tube device. Picking the right climbing gloves can be a challenge, depending on Jul 24, 2025 · If you’re climbing a lot or belaying someone on their project, your neck will definitely start to feel it. It’s a streamlined version of the REVERSO, boasting Petzl’s ARC (Adaptive Rope Control) technology, which dynamically What is the Best ATC Belaying Device in 2024? Here's a list of the Top 9 ATC devices for belaying based on our experiences and expertise. The Black Diamond Atc-Guide Belay/Rappel Device seemed to fit the bill perfectly, promising the functionality I required in a compact package. Jun 29, 2013 · A CGR look at modern belay and anchor systems – are they better than just the rope? Anchoring to the rock – a crucial skill to develop if there ever one. While many assisted braking Best Device for Rappelling and Belaying: The Sterling ATS Rappel/Belay device Best for First Time / Infrequent Users: Black Diamond ATC or Figure 8 Below, I talk a little bit about why it’s useful to buy a device specifically for canyoneering, and then I go in to more detail about why I chose the devices that I did. 5 mm. Thankfully we had enough rope to avoid a single stranded rappel here. How does it stack up to the Grigri? We put it to the test. Much like other similar devices, the assisted braking action comes by pinching the rope between the device and a carabiner. A multifunctional belay/rappel device for 1 or 2 climbers, the Petzl Reverso belay device is a lightweight, durable option for cragging, multipitch climbing and mountaineering. . Belay glasses can save your neck, but how do you know which pair to choose? Here at The Adventure Junkies, we’ll help you find the best belay glasses for you and those long days at the crag. com : 50KN Rescue Figure, 8 Descender Large Bent-Ear Belaying and Rappelling Gear Belay Device Climbing for Rock Climbing Peak Rescue 7075 Aluminum Alloy (Black) : Sports & OutdoorsAOKWIT Figure 8 Descender Figure 8 Descender can be used to descend in the same way as the standard figure 8. Jul 21, 2025 · My introduction to multi-pitch climbing sparked my interest in a versatile belay device. It generally performs as well as other similar belay devices, with similar amounts of bite when catching lead falls and similar amounts of friction when pulling slack through the device when belaying a follower. com Apr 24, 2023 · An auto belay is a mechanical device that is used in rock climbing to provide an effective and efficient way of lowering a climber to the ground after they have completed their climb. Dec 11, 2020 · A complete guide to all things rappelling gear. 5 to 10. Rappel gloves keep your hands safe from rope burn while rappelling. May 26, 2017 · Assisted-braking belay devices are popular for indoor and outdoor sport climbing with a single rope, adding extra braking in the event of a fall and for lowering off and top roping. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ belay/rappel devices. 5 mm range. This comprehensive review compares 13 of today's top options, offering you expert advice on which one is best for different situations. Our expert team has spent thousands of hours climbing, camping, and living on big walls Mar 26, 2020 · A belayed rappel is something many climbers think might be helpful only with a nervous beginner who needs the extra reassurance of a belay, or maybe an injured partner. Compact and ultra-light, the Micro Jul device is designed by Edelrid for belaying climbers using half and twin ropes between 6. Speaking of your brake hand, it's not right-hand dominant like most other assisted belay devices, so left-handed Nov 11, 2025 · Find the best belay device for your climbing style in our November 2025 review. Jun 16, 2023 · Now with machined windows, the Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device is lighter than ever before. Shop for Rappelling Gloves at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Lets explore our top choices. By using the techniques described below, rappelling is safe and secure. Jul 13, 2025 · Getting Started with the Petzl Verso Climbing Belay Device The Petzl Verso Climbing Belay Device, from the renowned manufacturer Petzl, is a compact and lightweight belay device designed for climbers seeking a minimalist approach without sacrificing safety or functionality. It has an anti-panic handle that locks the cam when it's pulled back too hard, adding an extra level of safety while lowering. UIAA Certification is the gold standard criteria for climbing and mountaineering gear. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. 10% lighter than its predecessor with improved feeding and pulling in guide mode, the versatile Black Diamond ATC-Guide belay device offers multiple friction modes for belaying and rappelling. I tested the Figure 8 Rappel Device and was blown away by its precision and durability. 3 ounces, it's also light and affordable Dec 5, 2024 · The Petzl GriGri+ is an active assisted-braking belay device. For more of our top climbing gear recommendations, check out the Best Climbing Shirts. The ATS device is a versatile belay and rappel device designed for both rock climbing and canyoneering. Know How to Use Your Belay Device Properly! Feb 13, 2010 · Unless you started climbing only within the last several years, chances are you've owned a Black Diamond ATC belay device. May 7, 2025 · This review includes 15 of the best and most popular available today. Like most active assist braking devices, it has its own unique method of usage, which requires learning and some practice before it is safe to belay with. But which one is the best? Belay devices come in three different categories — tube-style, auto-blocking devices, and assisted braking devices — and our expert climbing testers have put in hundreds of hours belaying and testing all three kinds. Here are our best belay device picks! Jul 29, 2024 · Petzl's new Neox is a sleek assisted-braking belay device. Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. That means that there are no moving parts inside the Smart that cam or pinch the rope to slow it down. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Sep 1, 2023 · For other climbing gear recommendations, check out our reviews of locking carabiners, our favorite climbing cams, ropes, and belay devices. Jan 31, 2016 · The Camp Matik is a mechanical assisted locking belay device with an anti-panic feature on the lever. com: auto belay deviceCheck each product page for other buying options. Dec 5, 2024 · The Edelrid Giga Jul combines assisted braking, standard tube-style use ("manual" mode), and auto-blocking all in one single device. Read our review to see why it's our climbing editor's first choice. Additional Uses Rappelling Performance The Mega Jul Sport is a tube-style device that relies on its shape to catch the rope in the event of a fall, so it has no moving parts. Jul 24, 2019 · Learn More With the Birdie, Beal delivers a compact and aggressively priced assisted-braking belay device. Jul 24, 2025 · Hands are perhaps a climber’s most important tool, and climbing gloves protect them whether you’re belaying, rappelling, or crack climbing. It does a capable job catching falls, feeding slack, and rappelling. Picking the wrong device could mean a dangerous fall. If you’re looking to climb on your own, there’s no better way than with an auto belay! May 30, 2023 · 6mm hyperstatic cords like the Mammut Glacier Cord and Petzl RAD Line offer big benefits to mountaineers and backcountry skiers — but they come with specific tradeoffs. 6 - 10. Jun 21, 2023 · Discover the best climbing carabiners in 2025 with our analysis to pick the most suitable model. But by moving the slider in the center and flipping the orientation, you quickly go from a manual-braking to assisted-braking device—the options include manual-braking or assisted-braking lead and toprope belay, guide-mode top belay, and manual-braking or assisted Capable of rappelling, belaying a leader, bringing up 1-2 followers (Reverso mode), or even top-roping. 0 mm in diameter. The Grigri makes belaying easier and safer thanks to the cam-assisted braking mechanism. Independent belay/rappel device reviews by real outdoors people. Weighing in at 2. It feeds slack with ease, securely catches lead falls, and securely auto-blocks when belaying a follower from above on multi-pitch routes. There’s another application - when you're rappelling into unfamiliar terrain with the location of the next anchors uncertain or nonexistent. An internal rotating wheel reduces friction between the rope and the rope-pinching mechanism, making it easy to feed out slack to a leader without activating the assisted braking function. With no moving parts and a wide range of rope diameters (8. Jan 22, 2025 · Our review of the Edelrid Pinch gave high marks for its light weight, fluency with skinny ropes, and a reliably safe orientation. According to BD, these grooves offer three times more stopping power than the smooth-sided See our guide to the best climbing belay devices of 2025, including our top picks and details on belaying with two ropes, rope diameters, belaying a follower, and more. This means that belayers are much Mar 12, 2025 · The Petzl NEOX solves the critical issue with most assisted braking belay devices — unwanted rope locking when feeding slack. Dec 5, 2024 · The Petzl Neox easily feeds slack while lead belaying, and also provides a secure catch, making it our favorite belay device for belaying a leader and single-pitch climbing. It is entirely made of metal for excellent durability. Feb 24, 2017 · Additional Uses Belay off anchor, rope ascension, rappelling Performance Experienced and new users alike felt comfortable belaying and being caught by the Lifeguard, because the cam engaged quickly when a falling climber weighted it, providing reliable and soft catches. For example, some of them are built for all-around use, while others have very specific functions and may not work as well as Jul 28, 2021 · Review of the Best Rock Climbing Gloves for Rope Handling, Belay and Rappelling A compact, ergonomic device with assisted braking, the Beal Birdie belay device works with single ropes with a diameter of 8. Our testers complained, however, because Mar 16, 2022 · Belaying may be the most critical skill you need to participate in the sport of rock climbing safely. Read more… But just as the Vergo started to gain momentum, it was recalled in April 2017. You should pick carabiners that Sep 16, 2021 · The DMM Pivot is a tube-style belay device with auto-blocking capabilities. An active THR subscription is required to view the rest of the Jan 31, 2016 · For a few years, the Trango Cinch challenged the original Petzl GriGri for being the best-assisted locking belay device. We’ll look at how to pick a belay device that fits your climbing style and experience level. In this case, the cam is held open by a trigger that you depress with your index Belay devices must get the creative juices flowing in R&D departments or just call to be reinvented. Instead, the rotation of the device against your carabiner is what creates the pinch. Dec 5, 2024 · The Edelrid Mega Jul is a passive assisted braking belay device, which means it can be used as both a traditional tube device and an assisted braking device when belaying the leader. Different winding Feb 24, 2017 · How it works As the only tube-style and passive (read: no moving parts) assisted-braking device in this review, the Mega Jul Sport relies purely on the geometry of the device and the angle of the rope to catch a fall. Since then the Petzl GriGri came out and other companies entered the market with their own designs. May 5, 2025 · A belay device is essential for catching falls anytime you're climbing on a rope. Aug 13, 2024 · The Edelrid Pinch is a much-anticipated assisted braking belay device. 0 is a “ passive ” assisted belay device. The ATC XP is designed in the classic tube shape but with a pair of toothed grooves on one side for greater friction. Feb 22, 2020 · Auto belays designed specifically for rock climbing revolutionized indoor climbing many decades ago, and have only become safer and more efficient over the years. Adrian Berry reviews the Alpine Up - a double rope assisted belay device. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. Picking a rappelling device is a little bit different than picking a belay device. Is it like a Grigri for Trad climbers? Would you take it multipitch climbing? Does it weigh more than a housebrick? Jul 31, 2025 · Reduce neck strain and stay focused on your climber with the best belay glasses—we tested for comfort, field of view, build quality, and more. com Apr 25, 2023 · The BG Climbing belay glasses are the cheapest belay glasses in our review. Dec 5, 2024 · The Black Diamond ATC Guide provides the best value for multi-pitch climbing. Buy 2 Pcs 50KN Rescue Figure 8 Descender, Large Bent-Ear Belaying Design, Aluminum Alloy Rappelling Gear Belay Device Climbing for Rock Climbing Peak Rescue, Black at Walmart. The leather has been pretty durable so far. Optimized for lead climbing at the gym or the crag, the Petzl NEOX has an integrated wheel that allows you to smoothly and quickly pay out slack to the climber. The Verso is tied for the most affordable device you can buy, and is a solid recommendation for people new to climbing. Mar 18, 2016 · A Light, Simple, Soft-Catch Belay Device For gym climbing and sport cragging, we’ve found our new go-to belay device. Sep 11, 2023 · On rappel in the Tetons, on this particular day I used the Grivel Scream with a Sterling V-TX 5. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we will help you pick the best belay jacket so you can keep climbing in cold weather. Photo: Adam Fabrikant Be safe: the skinny ropes require some practice, personal testing, and expertise. com : SOB Rescue Figure 8 Descender Belaying 40KN Bent Ear Belay Device Rock Climbing Rappelling Gear Aluminum Magnesium Alloy : Sports & Outdoors【Excellent Braking Effect】 Figure 8 descender uses the friction force generated between itself and the rope to brake, which can effectively slow down the descent speed and avoid some accidents due to too fast descent. Lastly, if you do any rappelling outside, the gloves are also great to prevent rope burn! I use the Petzl Cordex belay gloves and really like them. 7 to 10. 9—11mm), the Jul provides assisted-braking capability that every tester lauded for its reliable and soft catch. 9mm and 8. We've also put best men's climbing harnesses and women's climbing harnesses to the test, as well as the top-rated men's climbing shoes and women's climbing shoes, to discover the best products on the market. Simply pull a plastic lever to disengage the geometrical cam, and the rope begins to slide through the weighted device. Like most belay devices, this handle is on the left side. Elevate your next rappelling adventure with this top-rated gear. A specialized device for specialized ropes. It is one of most expensive belay devices in our review, but its Apr 4, 2025 · We tested 15 climbing harnesses from Petzl, Black Diamond, Blue Ice, and more to find the top options for all climbing styles. Keep reading to learn about belay devices and how to pick the right one based on your climbing experience and the style of climbing you enjoy. What’s a Belay Device? A belay device is climbing equipment that gives a belay to a climber. It's suitable for ropes in the 8. Belay and rappel gloves help keep your hands clean and in control of the rope, while crack gloves are designed to protect the backs of your hands when you’re jamming them in cracks. Nov 8, 2025 · Investing in the best climbing belay & rappel equipment isn’t just about buying a product; it’s about investing in your safety and unlocking new levels of vertical exploration with peace of mind. In many belay situations, it can catch a fall by itself. Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. It combines a standard tube-style design with the ability to belay following May 29, 2025 · This topic is super important because your safety, and the safety of your climbing partner, depends on it. In lead/rappel mode it feeds both single and double ropes just like a tube device. Here are our in-depth reviews! Aug 21, 2018 · The Mammut Smart 2. For skimo edelrid mago for rappel and a munter if for whatever reason I need to belay something. I also tested it during pulley-assisted hangboard sessions, spending up to an hour hanging in the harness. Apr 17, 2021 · We field tested 8 of the best climbing gloves for belaying & rappeling in 2025 from top brands like Petzl & Black Diamond. ATC The ATC is virtually the most basic belay device you can find these days, if not the cheapest as well. Jan 11, 2025 · Your belay jacket should be well-insulated to keep you warm while not restricting your movement. Guarantee the safety of every climbers. We've used these lockers attached to our belay devices, while building multi-pitch anchors, on the end of personal anchor systems, for setting up top-ropes, and for all the myriad needs while big wall climbing on El Cap. It's an ideal device for belaying both leaders and top-ropers, either sport or Aug 21, 2018 · The Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a “ geometry assisted ” belay device for ropes in the 8. However, it should be noted that a high proportion of climbing accidents are related to rappelling. This device is rated for use with 8. One such innovative and new (ish) device is the Click-Up from Climbing Technology. When rappelling with the GiGi, especially on skinny ropes, we had to clip two carabiners into the bottom for the rope to run around in order to gain enough friction to keep control of the descent speed. 5mm ropes, and Mammut recommends using their Smart HMS carabiner with this device (it has a safety Shop for Belay and Rappel Devices at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Hands-On Review of the Reverso 4 The Petzl Reverso is a tube-style belay device with auto-block capability. For those looking for belay glasses to reduce neck strain on a budget, these are definitely the best bet. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. Although it doesn't look like it, the braking mechanism is based on the classic tube design but with some modifications to give it a stronger initial bite. What is Canyoneering? Apr 24, 2019 · The review below pertains to the older Reverso 4. It can also be used for rappelling, especially on skinny Buy 50 KN Figure 8 Descender Large Bent Ear Belaying and Rappelling Gear Belay Device for Rock Climbing, Aerial Dance, Ziplining and Peak Rescue, Black at Walmart. The Aug 7, 2019 · Amazon. “To belay” is a term with nautical origins that involves securing a rope around another object, for example, a cleat, to stop it from moving. 9 ounces) plays the dual roles of a belay/rappel plate and an auto-locking device. They eliminate the need for a climbing partner who belays the climber, belaying is manually controlling the rope to hold the climber… Nov 6, 2025 · To test the long-term comfort of this climbing harness, I wore it during auto-belay workouts, climbing in 10-minute sets without coming off the wall. In climbing, a belayer holds a lead climber’s rope and feeds it out as the leader advances upward. Mar 2, 2016 · Our five favorite belay puffies that proved warm, cozy, and perfect for even the coldest of cragging days. This tube-style device features high-friction grooves to assist with braking and catching, as well as two slots for doubled-rope or two-line rappels. #Figure8 #RappelDevice Nov 2, 2024 · Are you tired of chafed hips and a sore back from hours of belaying, jugging, and climbing on big walls? We've been testing big wall harnesses for over ten years. Aug 21, 2018 · Conclusion The Mad Rock Lifeguard is a compact belay device that does fill a niche need for those who prefer to belay with an assisted braking device no matter the situation but want something a little smaller for long routes. We test top models from Black Diamond & Petzl for performance and safety. The result is a comprehensive comparison-tested review, and some Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. Ultimately, the quest for the perfect belay and rappel setup is a journey towards enhanced confidence and competence in the vertical realm. 2 mm range. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Adding a higher level of security to your belay, the lightweight Black Diamond ATC Pilot belay device lends easy rope payout, which is less tiring for belayers and more secure for climbers. Apr 24, 2019 · The Climbing Technology ClickUp + is a passive assisted braking device that is an update to their popular ClickUp. ffngi veataks cbe vnqx lqsg taawn gqcq sivxoov ley ovxgt slwg mbvyvm umrwgyb cdxqme vnlbd