Best assisted braking belay device. These devices are essential for .
Best assisted braking belay device. 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. Belay device types Tubular belay device Assisted braking belay device (passive) Assisted braking belay device (active) Figure 8 belay device What is a belay device? In short, the term “belay device” refers to any instrument that can be used to secure a partner while they climb or yourself while you descend from a fixed anchor. Aug 21, 2018 · Mammut redesigned the passive locking Smart device for 2018, and our testers were impressed with the result. For twins, I have a reverso that would work, but I was thinking it might be nice to get an assisted-braking device. Browse our range to find the assisted braking device that best suits your climbing style and needs. While all functions work well, the slider is a bit confusing to learn and isn't intuitive, making this device less suitable for handing to a partner without teaching them to use it first. Nov 6, 2022 · The tube-style device, assisted braking devices, and other belay devices have changed the face of what it means to belay. 5 mm in diameter. Jan 3, 2024 · Across the spectrum of belay devices, there are many design features that help belayers catch falling climbers. Pinch - a new belaying experience with the PINCH, a new, versatile assisted braking belay device for use in sport climbing, multi-pitch climbing and rope access techniques. Nov 3, 2020 · You type “best belay device reviews” into Google and get firehosed by decades of information. Lightweight climbers may find them slow for rappelling. Aug 24, 2018 · Here, we review and recommend the best assisted-braking belay devices for rock climbing. com is in high demand, secure it today! Is an assisted braking belay device worth upgrading to? Every climber should use an assisted braking device while climbing indoors or outdoors. This article outlines considerations for those who are wondering if they should upgrade from basic ATC belay devices to auto-locking belay devices. The way assisted braking Sep 22, 2023 · Although there are at least 25 different belay devices manufactured today, climbers should be aware of three major categories: active assisted braking, passive assisted braking, and manual tube-style braking. Nov 11, 2023 · Petzl GriGri 2, Edelrid Mega Jul Sport, and DMM Pivot are probably your best bets out of the 22 options considered. Since the inception of the original Grigri 1, the Grigri has continued to set the standard for belay devices with cam-assisted blocking (braking). They can help stop and hold a falling climber. Brake assisted devices are designed to take the load off the brake hand of the belayer. Trango Vergo Belay Device is an assisted-braking belay device designed to bring new levels of safety and ergonomics to rock climbing belaying. But due to the internal mechanism, belaying with a Grigri is incredibly safe even if a belayer is fatigued or panics and releases the brake strand. Since the 90s, climbing belay devices have continually developed, particularly in the assisted braking device category. How does it stack up to the Grigri? We put it to the test. When unweighted, slack is easily paid out in a straight line through What type of belay device is best for you? Tubular belay device: Compact, light and easy to use. The GriGri has been a fan favorite for years but now there are so many Jul 6, 2023 · Then, every climber will be better equipped to discover what Assisted Braking Devices offer to the overall security of a belay or rappelling system. 5-11mm dynamic single rope diameters. We reviewed that back in 2013 and then the original Click Up was chosen as our Best in Test in our Assisted Braking Belay Devices group test in May 2017. Feb 21, 2020 · The Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a “ geometry assisted ” belay device for ropes in the 8. Assisted Braking belay devices are also called semi-automatic. Designed for experienced climbers, the GRIGRI 2 belay device with assisted braking is designed to facilitate belay maneuvers. Perfect for single-pitch climbs. Dec 5, 2024 · The Trango Vergo is a fantastic device for belaying the leader, providing an ergonomic and intuitive way to pay out slack without compromising the brake assist. It Jul 24, 2025 · Brake assist belay devices offer a mechanical advantage to help the belayer to brake effectively. It's an ideal device for belaying both leaders and top-ropers, either sport or Why Assisted Braking is Necessary on your Belay Device Compared to ATCs and Figure 8s, safety features such as assisted braking keeps you safe if something were to happen to the belayer (like a rock falling on their head or a mountain goat pounces on them, or most likely, they stop paying attention for the single moment I fall, which propels them into the climbing wall head-first and they lose Sep 14, 2020 · A beginner belay device that has safety features like an assisted brake or teeth can really help when catching a fall or when those small mistakes happen. With a clearly visible and well-ad Dec 5, 2024 · The Edelrid Giga Jul is the most versatile belay device on the market, operating as a tube-style device for traditional belays and rappelling, while also offering an assisted-braking feature for one or two ropes. While perhaps not as reliable as a grigri, I would welcome the added safety of an assisted-braking device (especially when I'm on the one leading!). These devices are essential for Mar 10, 2021 · For long-suffering belay slaves, the assisted-braking belay device has been one of the most welcome gear innovations of the last two decades. Jun 20, 2018 · Interested in the Petzl Grigri 2 belay device? Our in-depth review breaks down the pros and cons and compares it to the GriGri +. Aug 15, 2025 · Find the perfect assisted braking belay device. . What type of belay device is best for you? Tubular belay device: Compact, light and easy to use. Soon you’re inundated with terms like Air Traffic Control and Passive Assisted Braking. PETZL - GRIGRI 2, Belay Device with Assisted Braking, Gray. 5 to 10. There’s also a third belay device type that’s somewhere in between. If possible, practice belaying with friends belay devices to get a feel of what works best for you. Dec 5, 2024 · The Giga Jul takes a standard autoblocking tube-style belay device and adds a slider that provides an assisted brake function. They can manage one strand of rope at a time, so they aren’t suitable for traditional rappels. 0 is for single-strand use only. It's suitable for ropes in the 8. Here are some top tips for choosing and using an assisted braking device Tubular belay device: Compact, light and easy to use. 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. Basically, gets a thumbs up from me if you're using skinny half ropes! 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. Follow manufacturer instructions, watch tutorials, or seek guidance at your local gym. With such high praise for the first version, could the new '+' model live up to, or even improve on, the Hi, I'm just curious to know which belay devices you (as a climber) prefer for sport climbing? I had no problem with my belayers having either an ATC or an assisted braking device such as Grigri, ATC pilot etc as long as the belayer feels safe and competent. Heavier and not compatible with certain rope diameters or icy/wet ropes. Brake assist, or “assisted braking” is one of those features. A fall is stopped by tightening the hand on the free end of the rope. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. Assisted Braking Belay Device Market Outlook As per our latest research, the global assisted braking belay device market size reached USD 225 million in 2024, demonstrating robust growth momentum driven by increasing participation in climbing sports and rising safety awareness. WHAT devices will be permitted? Jan 15, 2018 · The new Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a lightweight assisted braking belay device for single-pitch climbs. Below is a summary table of top-rated belay devices featuring innovative cam-assisted braking systems, progressive descent control Dec 5, 2024 · The Petzl GriGri+ is the best active assisted-braking belay device for newer climbers and feels very familiar to anybody who has used a GriGri before. 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. The key feature of assisted braking provides relief from needing to hold constant tension on a weighted rope. But I'd definitely go with an active assisted braking belay device like the ones I mentioned in this post. Best for gym, sport and I exclusively use assisted braking systems on belay, and I really don't like GriGris. com is available for sale! Check it out on ExpiredDomains. Weighing in at 2. 5 mm range. However, after a few falls I became more anxious and no longer wanted my belayer to use an unassisted belay device in case he/she fainted Jun 5, 2020 · Assisted Braking Devices Starting July 1 st, Inspire Rock will require using Assisted Braking Devices (ABDs) for belaying on the top rope and lead. The lifeguard belay device with assisted braking is compact, been constructed using hot forged aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel for increased durability. It feeds slack with ease, securely catches lead falls, and securely auto-blocks when belaying a follower from above on multi-pitch routes. Very gently used, maybe 3 sessions. This article will qualify the use of Assistant Braking Devices according to the following principles: Assisted Braking Devices, when used correctly, provide a reliable backup to any belayer. Belay Device Buying Guide Belay device considerations What are the main types of belay devices? Assisted braking devices Active vs passive ABDs Figure 8 belay devices What to consider Final thoughts More guides Belay Device Buying Guide Belay device considerations Whether you're climbing indoors or heading outside, a belay device is a must-have Dec 2, 2024 · The most common types of belay devices include tubular devices, assisted braking devices, and figure-eight devices. These devices are especially useful when you are belaying someone on a project (a route that is very difficult for the climber) and catching lots of falls. Here’s a review from an REI expert. Petzl’s most recent rendition of the Grigri has an anti-panic feature to add security when belaying in top rope mode. Great belay device, just found myself grabbing my ATC much more often. Assisted-braking belay devices are commonplace at crags and gyms. The market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7. Also, it is much heavier than other autoblocking devices, making it less suitable Assisted Braking Belay Rappel Devices Suitable for Trad and Alpine Climbing: Edelrid Mega Jul and Micro Jul, CT Alpine Up I am becoming more and more convinced that belay/rappel devices with assisted braking are a big improvement over traditional ATC or Reverso type belay/rappel devices. These are not automatic belay devices, and we will always require proper belay techniques in the gym. Aug 5, 2025 · 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. We break down key differences among the Grigri, Neox, Edelrid Pinch, and more top picks. Best for gym, sport and multipitch trad climbing. There is a bit of a learning curve with this device, and Mammut also sells a What Belay Devices Are There and How Do They Differ? Modern belay devices can be divided into two groups: manual braking devices (EN 15151-2) and braking devices with manually assisted locking (EN 15151-1). As the sport of climbing evolves, so does the technology that keeps us safe. "Active assisted braking" is the primary reason people pick Petzl GriGri 2 over the competition. These devices are crucial for climbers of all levels, providing peace of mind and reducing belayer strain. Dec 13, 2023 · Assisted Braking Devices vs. The Smart 2. Apr 14, 2023 · If you're getting into sport climbing or if you're a regular by now, we highly recommend getting an ASSISTED belay device. Belay devices use friction created by a bend in the rope to catch falls and lower climbers. This article covers some of today’s most common styles of belay devices on the market. With assisted braking for improved belaying comfort both in the gym and at the crag, the light and compact the Petzl GRIGRI belay device can be used with 8. They've got the mind-share, but I believe they're one of the worst solutions to the problem. Where other units draw the user to compromise the belay by holding down a camming rope pinch, the Vergo pinches the rope by rotating the entire device when weighted. Why? Because safety is the number one priority at Spire. Mar 12, 2025 · The Petzl NEOX solves the critical issue with most assisted braking belay devices — unwanted rope locking when feeding slack. Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. We also think that there is no point in getting a cheap belay device that you’ll soon grow out of. It is compatible with all single dynamic ropes from 8. Top Rope belay in click up mode: Dec 5, 2024 · Passive assist braking devices offer a stronger bite, which gives your hand a break when belaying someone who is hanging a lot. With assisted braking technology similar to a Grigri, this device ensures smooth and secure control during belaying and rappelling. Experience enhanced security with the ATC-Pilot Belay Device. Mar 17, 2022 · The GriGri is an assisted braking belay device manufactured by Petzl. Feb 21, 2020 · The Camp Matik is a mechanical assisted locking belay device with an anti-panic feature on the lever. ABDs assist belayers in catching falls, braking, and lowering a climber. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. The lifeguard can be used with classic belay techniques, with single ropes, ranging from 8 9 millimeters to 11 millimeters for lead and top rope climbing in the description to get this product today, at the best price, the Sep 3, 2020 · I find it to be very convenient, especially while managing rope at a hanging belay. May 10, 2019 · The Click Up+ is an updated version of the popular Click Up assisted braking belay device that was first introduced six years ago. Best for gym, sport and Team grigri here. Assisted Braking Device Policy Effective March 1st, 2021 ÜG will require the use of Assisted Braking Devices for all top rope & lead belaying. Keep reading to learn about the most iconic belay device– the Black Diamond ATC. 1% during the forecast period, reaching a value of USD 415 million Dec 13, 2023 · Assisted Braking Devices vs. Comparing release holes of the Reverso (left) and the Black Diamond ATC Guide (right). Speaking of your brake hand, it's not right-hand dominant like most other assisted belay devices, so left-handed The Birdie is our compact assisted-braking belay device, ideal for lead climbing and top-rope belaying. Most notable of these newer devices are tube-style Jul 17, 2025 · Choosing the right assisted braking belay device is crucial for climbers seeking enhanced safety and control. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. All of these devices May 30, 2023 · All top rope and lead climbing belayers must use an approved ABD (Assisted Braking Device) type belay device when belaying another climber. Belay Device Types The most common belay devicesBeB fall into one of two categories: Assisted-braking devices, which arrest climbing falls by “grabbing” the rope like a locking seatbelt, and tube-style devices, which use friction alone to catch a fall. 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. The Petzl GRIGRI is the undisputed Mar 1, 2023 · EDGEWORKS Assisted-Braking Device Policy Effective March 1, 2023 As climbing evolves, so do the technologies, techniques, and best practices we use to mitigate the risk of our sport. We looked at everything from weight and price to how well the device feeds slack. This is very helpful for long belays when your climber is projecting or falling a lot while leading but it also helps keep a nice tight top rope. com. Unlike traditional assisted devices, it emphasizes natural hand movements, reducing strain and providing a smooth belaying experience. Owning more than one belay device can be practical for versatility. The two Petzl units don't have anti-panic mechanisms, which often get in the way of a smooth lower. As climbing evolves, so do the technology, techniques, and best practices we use to mitigate the risk of our I recommend trying out the different types. Includes the pros and cons of tubular, assisted braking and Figure 8 devices. The Grigri makes belaying easier and safer thanks to the cam-assisted braking mechanism. Mammut and BD also make devices like this. However, three main types of devices exist: tubular belay devices, assisted braking belay devices, and the figure 8. The idea is quite simple in its complexity: when the rope moves through the device too quickly, the device reacts in a way that reduces or stops the movement of the rope. May 5, 2025 · The best assisted-braking devices for lowering are the Petzl GriGri, Petzl Neox, and Edelrid Pinch. For beginners, this means less awkward handling and more intuitive control over the rope. This post digs into it. These devices offer mechanical advantages that aid in catching falls and controlling rope feed, making them ideal for sport, trad, and top-rope climbing. There are two primary categories that belay devices fall under: either non-assisted braking, or assisted braking. What Is a Non-Assisted Braking Device? Non-assisted braking devices require the belayer to keep their hand on the brake end of the rope and will only catch the climber if their hand remains Mar 1, 2023 · EDGEWORKS Assisted-Braking Device Policy Effective March 1, 2023 As climbing evolves, so do the technologies, techniques, and best practices we use to mitigate the risk of our sport. Oct 3, 2022 · 10 Best Assisted Braking Belay Device Reviews According To Experts We tried to find the top ten Assisted Braking Belay Device from thousands of different products in this section. Years ago, some of the best climbers in the world used a Figure 8 (belay device) and even a Munter Jul 24, 2019 · With the Birdie, Beal delivers a compact and aggressively priced assisted-braking belay device. 6 - 10. Effective March 13th, 2019, Spire requires the the use of Assisted Braking Belay Devices (ABD), and no longer allows the use of tube style devices for belaying. 7 to 10. Feb 22, 2020 · The important thing to note here is that no belay device should ever be used hands-free; hence why they’re called assisted braking belay devices. The 2. Assisted-braking belay device: Easy to control, feed rope smoothly and aid in stopping falls. climbingjunkie. Here are our best belay device picks! Grigris are active assisted braking devices, which means that moving internal parts engage to help a belayer catch a fall. Figure 8 Belay Device: Efficient and smooth for rappelling, efficiently dissipate heat from friction and work with most rope Jan 4, 2024 · Assisted braking is when the belay device helps to slow the rope through the device or hold the rope, taking some strain off the belayer. It is primarily used while rock climbing to maintain a safe and effective climbing system. Dec 1, 2023 · The top 3 most wanted and most owned mechanical belay devices say a lot about how modern climbers use assisted braking. Feb 21, 2019 · The Best Assisted-Braking Belay Devices for Rock Climbing Belay devices are experiencing a renaissance of sorts, with more innovative options on the market than ever. This page is powered by a knowledgeable community that helps you make an informed decision. They vary in price, ease of use, safety features, and level of assistance with braking. Its ergonomic design offers smooth and intuitive handling, allowing you to focus fully on your climb. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of climbing belay systems, namely tube-style devices (like ATCs) and assisted braking devices (active and passive), and see how they stack up against each other. The reason these devices are considered “passive” is because there are no moving parts that help to assist with braking. Aug 13, 2024 · The Edelrid Pinch is a much-anticipated assisted braking belay device. Ensure proper training to use the device confidently and consistently. Nov 8, 2014 · Perfectly adequate especially considering almost no other belay device will let you choose between assisted and non assisted belay modes. Shop for Edelrid Belay and Rappel Devices at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Figure 8 Belay May 26, 2022 · The past few years have seen an explosion of belay devices in this category from nearly all the manufacturers. Dec 16, 2022 · The Petzl Grigri, invented in 1991, is single-handedly the most well-known assisted braking belay device. Jul 24, 2025 · Whether you are a gym climber, trad climber, sport climber, alpine climber or all of the above, our goal here at The Adventure Junkies is to help you pick the best belay device and get you one step closer to your next adventure. Never release the rope with your brake hand, even with assisted braking. Tubular devices are the most traditional and basic type, offering a simple and lightweight option for climbers. 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. 3 ounces, it's also light and affordable May 13, 2025 · In reality, little, if anything has changed about GriGri’s camming and assisted-breaking mechanism since the device’s inception and, we have to be honest – it’s still one of the best-assisted braking belay devices around. Manual Braking Devices in a Teaching Environment Manual braking belay devices like the ATC require the belayer to be at the top of their game, never removing their hand from the brake line while in use. Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. Jul 29, 2024 · Petzl's new Neox is a sleek assisted-braking belay device. Aug 26, 2025 · The Trango Vergo is an innovative assisted-braking device designed with an ergonomic shape for comfort and efficiency. Learn the basics, features, and benefits of assisted braking belay devices for improved safety and efficiency in climbing. 2 mm range. The semi-automatic operation ensures that the belay device immediately blocks in the event of a fall. Our inventory includes top-of-the-line models such as the Petzl Gri Gri, Edelrid OHM, and Climbing Technology Click Up. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee May 10, 2019 · Group Test Assisted Braking Belay Devices Assisted-braking belay devices are popular for indoor and outdoor sport climbing, adding extra braking in the event of a fall The Assisted Braking Devices we have in stock are designed to enhance belaying safety by automatically locking the rope during falls. May 15, 2025 · Assisted braking devices are a firm favourite among sport climbers, offering an extra layer of confidence when belaying, but they're not infallible. Aug 12, 2022 · It's my main, and would probably be my only belay device if I didn't already own a grigri, which I slightly prefer for sport. I like the way the gigajul abseils in assisted mode on skinny half ropes, nice and smooth and locks securely. In this case, the cam is held open by a trigger that you depress with your index climbingjunkie. An essential piece of every climber’s kit, belay devices are necessary to climb safely and Aug 15, 2025 · To help you choose the best assisted-braking belay device for you, we’ve rounded up a number of options, each of which has its pros and cons. It's also lightweight and compact, but it's not the most versatile option. Effective March 1, 2023, all Edgeworks locations will adopt an Assisted-Braking Device (ABD) policy for all top rope and lead belaying in the gym. It's grabby and not pleasant on fat ropes. Have you tried any of Edelrid's "Jul" family of devices? They provide a similar kind of brake assistance, but without the pulley that the GriGri uses. Dec 22, 2022 · With only one rope, added safety can be achieved by incorporating an assisted braking tube-style device, like the Black Diamond Pilot, without sacrificing a smooth belay. Learn how to choose a belay device for rock climbing. Read our review to see why it's our climbing editor's first choice. 0 offers you the security of an assisted braking device at an affordable price. Shop our range of high-quality brands including Petzl, Edelrid, Climbing Technology, and Black Diamond. Unlike traditional tube-style devices, these gizmos actually help the belayer hold a falling or hanging climber. Jul 25, 2023 · The Grigri is an assisted braking belay device designed for climbing inside or outdoors. brh eam3s fqeir by25 fs1jd 0s80y ywit wuma xhsvkzjx guy27
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