Types of belay devices. climbingjunkie.
Types of belay devices. But with so many available, how do you decide which one is right for you? This article breaks down the most common types of belay devices, the best belay devices for different disciplines of climbing, and, of course, when to choose a Grigri over an ATC (and vice versa). Keep reading to learn about the most iconic belay device– the Black Diamond ATC. . The belay device takes most of the load so your partner doesn’t have to. They provide the critical link between climber and belayer, ensuring that falls are safely arrested and controlled. 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. Grigri. To ascend, the lanyard is simply wound into the device by a retraction spring as you climb. Belay devices are only used while top-rope climbing or lead climbing, indoors and outdoors, and are not used while bouldering. climbingjunkie. These are the types of belay devices that you're most like to see around the crag. Some popular types include tubular devices, assisted braking devices, and figure-eight devices. com is available for sale! Check it out on ExpiredDomains. There are many different types of belay devices available, so it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your climbing style and the type of rope you’re using. It saves time and is safer imo. Tubular devices are the most traditional and basic type, offering a simple and lightweight option for climbers. Here are our best belay device picks! May 26, 2022 · The type of device we recommend largely has to do with the type of climbing situation you find yourself in. May 28, 2019 · Types of Belay Devices: Tube-style belay devices: These devices are the most common type of belay device used by climbers. However, there are two types of braking systems utilized for a controlled descent: magnetic and friction based. Intuitive and easy to use, the BE UP has a modular braking system to optimise braking with all types of rope and allow the auto-locking and independent belaying of two seconds. This article covers how to belay with an ATC. Jan 4, 2024 · Learn about the 5 main styles of belay devices for climbing, from tube to assisted braking, and their pros and cons. Easy to use, the rope can be threaded from different directions. The OHMEGA defines a new category of belay 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. "We are Aug 15, 2024 · Types of Belay Devices Various types of belay devices are available, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages. Here are our in-depth reviews. Follow along with Gearheads Alex Quitiquit and Nils Mindnich as they dive into three of their favorite Feb 22, 2020 · Most auto belays use the same mechanism for ascension, but the mode of descent varies among different types of automatic belay devices. Mar 23, 2022 · With different types of belay device out there, we look at the pros and cons of each and consider which you should use for different styles of climbing When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. DOBLE The tube-shaped devices are very common and are suitable for all types of mountaineering and rock climbing. Lightweight, it can be used for both belaying and rappelling, providing good control over the rope. Having the correct descender when descending will make a difference. Many of these devices (like BD Pilot, Mammut Smart, Edelrid Jul series) lock quicker and better with a carabiner that has a more rounded top that adds more resistance (versus a carabiner with a very thin top area). Here’s how it works. Movement of an aerial device for the purpose of raising, lowering, or rotating a stokes basket carrying a patient should be avoided. However, three main types of devices exist: tubular belay devices, assisted braking belay devices, and the figure 8. We have grouped belay devices into different categories that show how they have evolved over the years: Figure 8s, ATCs, Passive Assisted Braking Devices, and The Importance of Proper Belay Techniques in Climbing One key aspect of proper belay techniques is understanding the different types of belay devices available and how they work. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. Stoked for climbing season? Let’s chat belay devices. There are three types. We're here to help you choose! Apr 24, 2024 · A belay device is a piece of equipment used in rock climbing to manage the rope while belaying, a technique where one climber ensures the safety of another by controlling the rope. Delivering quality value and workmanship in descent devices, but above all, in service to both career and volunteer rope rescue professionals. In its simplest form, a belay consists of a rope that runs from a climber to another person (the belayer) who can stop the climber's fall. Tubular Style Belay Device The classic. Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. May 19, 2022 · At WeighMyRack, we list every single belay device and give you filters for type (like tube or brake assist), guide mode, and other features. Auto belay "TruBlue Speed" auto-belay fixed at the top of an indoor climbing route An auto belay (or autobelay) is a mechanical device for belaying in indoor climbing walls, in both training and competition climbing formats. The hydraulic advantage created by the movement of the aerial device causes dynamic loads that could cause failure of important components of a rope system. At Live Action Safety we carry a variety of different styles of descenders. Before there were different types of belay Mar 20, 2025 · Introduction to Belay Devices Yes, there are several types of belay devices, each designed to cater to different climbing styles and safety needs. Explore the different types of belay devices and learn what suits you best with our buying guide. For example, some of them are built for all-around use, while others have very specific functions and may not work as well as Tube belay devices or ‘tubers’ are by far the most common type used. You can also filter by on sale belay devices with discounts >20%. Suitable for all Belaying is a critical skill that every climber has to learn early on. Here's a breakdown of the main types of belay devices and their features: Types of Belay Devices Tube-Style (ATC): named after Black Diamond's Air Traffic Controller (ATC), these devices are versatile and commonly used. ( Has pictures of how to use the device on it. The different types of rappelling are: Standard rappels Australian rappels Hanging rappels Military rappels Simul-rappel Fireman’s belay Tandem rappels It’s important to know about the different types of rappelling so that you’re aware of what’s appropriate for what situations, and any differences in the gear you need to carry. This post will walk you through what a rappel device is, how to use one, and some of the most common types of belay and rappel devices. Gearing Up to Belay When you take a belay class, typically a rope, harness, helmet (if climbing outdoors), locking carabiner, belay device and rock shoes are either provided or available for rent. Personal Escape for more single use applications. com. So, let’s get into it! Mar 27, 2019 · Belay devices: what types? To address each use and every user, Petzl offers two types of device: assisted-braking belay devices belay/rappel devices Assisted-braking belay devices Principle: when the climber falls, the device pivots on the carabiner, the rope tightens, and the cam pinches and blocks the rope. The thing is that many people, especially the uh purists…didn’t like the idea of relying purely on a camming mechanism to catch their full. Learn about different types of belay devices, from tubular to assisted braking, and how to choose the right one for your climbing needs. Great for High Angle Rescue, Confined Space Rescue, Water Rescue, Search and Rescue. The device enables a climber to ascend indoor routes on a top rope but without the need for a human belaying partner. If I somehow manage to skip an important category, feel free to give me a heads up. I really like the added security of How many types of belay devices are there? The quick answer is that — There are three main types of belay devices used in climbing, and all three have different uses and have different functions. Some devices are better suited for rappelling, others for belaying, and others for gym-climbing. 2024 Climb Guide Harnesses, Ropes, Pro, Pads, Shoes & More Explore The Best Belay Device for Beginners How to Choose a Belay or Rappel Device 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. Keep rope and stokes basket in line with ladder at all How many types of belay devices are there? The quick answer is that — There are three main types of belay devices used in climbing, and all three have different uses and have different functions. There are different types of belay devices and the belay technique may be slightly different for each one. Look for Figure 8 and NFPA Rescue 8 descenders, rack-type descenders and specialized belay tools. We explain the different types there is and offer a description of every belay device we stock. Then came the idea of assisted braking devices. Holding the brake side of the rope helps engage the cam, so it always important to Apr 24, 2024 · A belay device is a piece of equipment used in rock climbing to manage the rope while belaying, a technique where one climber ensures the safety of another by controlling the rope. Mar 27, 2019 · Belay devices: what types? To address each use and every user, Petzl offers two types of device: assisted-braking belay devices belay/rappel devices Assisted-braking belay devices Principle: when the climber falls, the device pivots on the carabiner, the rope tightens, and the cam pinches and blocks the rope. Here are some common types of belay devices: The choice of a belay device can impact the ease of use, level of control, and safety during a climb. A belay device is a mechanical piece of climbing equipment used to control a rope during belaying. So learn to use a basic tube-style device, and you’ll be able to adapt to any other type or brand within a few minutes of practice. Provides good friction, great for rappelling and belaying. There are many different devices. See every climbing brand, compare every detail, and find the best price. They consist of a simple tube with slots for the rope. Examples of tube-style belay devices include the Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, and Mammut Smart. The main difference is The higher the braking force of the belay device, the less manual force the belayer needs. Assisted braking devices (ABDs): These devices provide automatic assisted braking, making them ideal for lead climbing and top-roping. Belay devices without blocking function These belay devices allows dynamic belay with slip of a rope. Belay devices come in various designs but generally serve the same purpose: to control Sep 14, 2021 · The most common types of rappeling are the standard rappel, Australian rappel, tandem rappel, military rappel, and free rappel. Mar 21, 2024 · Are there reasons to use one belay device over another? This post explores the different climbing situations and how they relate to belay devices. 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. RescueTECH offers the best of Rescue Descenders and Belay Devices Technical Rope Rescue. Some common types include tubular devices, assisted braking devices, and figure-eight devices. Dive into the principles of back ups, assisted breaking devices, and how each device changes how to belay. Whether you’re new to climbing or an experienced belayer, understanding your Learn to choose between tubular and assisted-braking belay devices and find the right style for climbing multi-pitch or working routes in the gym. The Figure-Eight – One of the A belay device is a mechanical device that is attached to the belayer’s harness and is used to take in the slack rope. Rack type, more commonly used for cave descents or longer depths. Tube-style devices: Simple and lightweight, these devices are suitable for beginners. Nov 2, 2023 · Carabiners for Belaying The standard for belaying these days is a brake assisted belay device (required in many gyms). Each device has its unique features and functions, but they all serve the same purpose of controlling rope tension to Jun 28, 2018 · Belay is the primary safety system used to protect people while at height. For an overview of basic climbing gear, see Getting Started Rock Climbing. Assisted braking devices are not fully auto-locking like a Gri Gri, but provide significant extra friction when catching a falling leader or rappelling, when compared with an ATC or Reverso. [1] It is designed to improve belay safety for the climber by allowing the belayer to manage their duties with minimal physical effort. From dynamic brakes to manual blocking devices, we'll help you find the perfect device for your climbing adventure. The biggest difference between these rappel types is the way the belay devices are rigged to the system followed by the orientation of the person rappelling. Suitable for all Jun 17, 2025 · The belay device is known to use the friction of the bend of the rope to catch the person falling and must lower the climber. Browse our wide selection and save today. There are many different types of belay devices, but the main categories boil down to just six types. com is in high demand, secure it today! Learn how to choose the best belay devices for climbing, including key factors for selecting belay equipment and climbing belay devices to ensure safety and performance. Compare different models, features, and prices of each type. Take a belay class from a climbing instructor anywhere in the world. Manual tube belay devices allow you to belay very dynamically, but the device’s braking force only functions if the dead rope is held down by the belayer, so always keep your brake hand on the rope. This post is going to cover one of the most basic pieces of equipment, the rappel device. Multiuse belay / abseil device with innovative and compact design (registered design), suitable for use with half, twin and single ropes for mountaineering, multi-pitch sport climbing and trad routes. Proper understanding and selection of these devices can significantly enhance safety and climbing efficiency If you rock climb with a rope, you need a belay device. Apr 27, 2021 · We bought and field tested 6 of the best belay devices in 2025 from top brands like Petzl and Black Diamond. Find everything you need for your next adventure at Backcountry. With the right belay device, a small, weak climber can easily arrest the fall of a much heavier partner. Types of belay devices: Your belay Here's a breakdown of the main types of belay devices and their features: Types of Belay Devices Tube-Style (ATC): named after Black Diamond's Air Traffic Controller (ATC), these devices are versatile and commonly used. Dynamic belay devices Dynamic belay devices are so called, because they enable dynamic belaying without the involvement of the body. In the modern day, most climbers use a variety of gear to belay, notably harnesses and belay devices. The mechanical brake assist devices, like the Petzl GriGri or Picking a rappelling device is a little bit different than picking a belay device. These belay devices feature 2 slots for your rope, allowing you to belay, rappel, or climb using a two-rope system. Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. May 13, 2021 · If you climb routes, you'll need a belaying system, also known as a belay device or descender, for your first expedition and those that follow. Keep rope and stokes basket in line with ladder at all Nov 27, 2024 · The Edelrid OHMEGA, announced today, is a new type of belay assistance that reduces the load on the belayer in a fall while providing other advantages. CMC, committed to providing rope descenders for rappelling, belay & vertical rescue maneuvers with rope rigging systems, pulleys, carabiners, and training gear for rescue organizations & departments. Generally, different types of belay devices are aimed at different activities. Mar 17, 2022 · The basics behind the Petzl GriGri, one of climbing’s most popular belay devices. Each type offers distinct features tailored to different climbing styles and scenarios. it. com Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. Sep 14, 2020 · We do however recommend the Grigri Plus for mainly top roping and the Beal Birdie for mainly lead climbing. BE UP Multiuse belay / abseil device with innovative and compact design and it has a modular braking system to optimise braking with all types of rope. May 5, 2025 · 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. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, understanding the different types of belay systems and their proper use is essential for a safe Dec 2, 2024 · The most common types of belay devices include tubular devices, assisted braking devices, and figure-eight devices. There are several types of belay devices, each with its own pros, cons, and Which belay device should I use? The available belay devices all range from inexpensive (around $15) to pricey ($150 and up) and offer different things in terms of ease of use, assistance with braking, and additional safety features. Belay devices are mechanical tools used in rock climbing and mountaineering to control the rope and provide friction, allowing the belayer to arrest the climber’s fall and control their descent. Belay Device Types What Is A Tube Style Belay Device? A few tube style or ATC belay devices – The update of the original ATC is on the left though teethed devices are much more common nowadays May 22, 2024 · A Guide to Belay Systems in Rock Climbing Introduction to Belay Systems Belay systems are the backbone of rock climbing safety. I do personally love and recommend using a double or triple action auto locking biner for your belay device. While there are many brand names on the market, the most common belay systems used… climbingjunkie. This article breaks down the most common types of belay devices, the best belay devices for different disciplines of climbing, and, of course, when to choose a Grigri over an ATC (and vice versa). Also assisted braking descenders often used for rescue. Belay Device Types - Search Results. Belay devices play a critical role in rock climbing, acting as a system that controls the rope during a climber’s ascent and descent. First, we saw the tubular devices laying some solid foundations for belay devices futures. Jun 12, 2024 · The type of belay device influences how effectively a belayer can manage rope slack, catch falls, and lower a climbing partner. A belay device is a mechanical piece of climbing equipment designed to manage rope friction during belaying It significantly enhances climber safety, enabling a belayer to arrest falls, lower climbers, or manage slack Choosing the Right Belay Device: The Basics You Need to Know Whether you're climbing indoors, sport climbing, or out on a multi-pitch route, belaying is just as important as climbing itself. Nov 6, 2022 · The tube-style device, assisted braking devices, and other belay devices have changed the face of what it means to belay. The choice depends on the kind of climbing—whether it’s multipitch trad climbing, sport climbing, gym climbing, or even rescue operations. Jun 9, 2023 · Discover the pros and cons of the three major types of belay devices for rock climbing: tube-style, assisted braking, and figure 8 devices. Both the folding of the rope and the clipping of the carabiner add bends to the rope, which add friction to the overall system. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ belay/rappel devices. Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. We have aluminum and steel figure 8's as well as rescue racks, squeeze type descenders and tuba belays. The Evolution of Belaying and Belay Devices Overtime Nov 24, 2024 · This is the like the Facebook to Myspace of belay devices. Dec 22, 2023 · In this article, I’ll briefly discuss the evolion of belaying and belay devices overtime, talk about some of the most common belay devices on the market, including thier pros and cons, and then share my unsolicited advice to help you deploy the right belay device at the right time. Includes products by RescueTECH, ISC, Traverse Rescue, Anthron, CMI. While old-school devices such as the figure eight and ATC still have their place in the climbing world, the Jul 6, 2023 · There is a place and a time to use most types of belay devicesbut there are compelling reasons to prefer assisted breaking devices over manual breaking devices. Outdoor gear and clothing from big brands to the small and undiscovered. Holding the brake side of the rope helps engage the cam, so it always important to Nov 2, 2021 · A belay device is like a little pulley made of aluminium or alloy that allows your partner to add quick, sudden tension to the rope by locking off the rope so that if you fall, you won’t go far. Some have more safety features added in while others are simpler to use. Whats goes up must come down. Check with your climbing instructor to see if you need to bring any additional gear. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of belay device so you can find the exact one you need. They are versatile and can be used for both lead and top-rope climbing. Jul 26, 2024 · This buying guide offers advice for anyone wanting to purchase a new belay device, or add to their existing collection. There are several types of belay devices available, each with its unique design and functionality. Your belay device — that little piece of metal connecting the belayer to the climber — plays a key role in everyone's safety. Depending on the type of climb, you will likely opt to use a different belay device at the gym than you would on a multi-pitch for example. At Rescue Tech we carry a wide variety of Rope Rescue Descenders and Belay Devices. They vary in price, ease of use, safety features, and level of assistance with braking. Keep reading to learn how to use a rappel device when rappelling. The three primary types of belay devices are assisted-braking devices, tubular devices, and figure eight devices. Oct 8, 2023 · Discover the world of climbing belay devices with Antonio from Mountainreview. Find the best belay devices from Black Diamond, CAMP, DMM, Edelrid, Grivel, Mammut, Petzl, Wild Country. In this post, we'll demystify the various types of belay devices, explain how they work, and even share some insider tips on picking the perfect one for your next thrilling ascent. Dec 22, 2022 · Discover the side-by-side comparison of the GriGri vs ATC belaying devices: history, pros and cons, best use. Feb 22, 2020 · These belay devices are great for all kinds of climbing. Extreme In this video, we break down the different types of sport climbing belay devices and what makes each of them unique. There is a wide range of belay systems on the market and picking the right one is a critical decision that influences operations, efficiencies, risk, and superivsion. Extreme Learn to choose between tubular and assisted-braking belay devices and find the right style for climbing multi-pitch or working routes in the gym. Jun 23, 2024 · Types of Belay Devices There are several types of belay devices available for traditional climbing, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Belaying with an ATC involves knowing how to: Set up the ATC belay device Belay … Nov 14, 2024 · A Complete Guide to Belay Devices: Types, Uses, and Expert Insights Welcome to AlpiniaHub! If you’re exploring the world of climbing, understanding belay devices is crucial. Other devices are useful for specific things but for like 99% of situations, a grigri is all around better. For the most part, to use these devices, one must first fold and push the rope through one of the ‘tubes’ in the device and then clip the rope with a locking carabiner. See full list on rei. We’ve sorted this guide from the most popular to least popular belay device styles used by climbers today. Mar 16, 2022 · But nearly every belay device uses the same general principles to function and operate correctly. Ultimately, these are compact and Independent belay/rappel device reviews by real outdoors people. Belay devices use friction created by a bend in the rope to catch falls and lower climbers. There are various designs of belay devices, but basically there are two main types of designs: 1) belay devices without blocking function and 2) with blocking function. It is especially important to belay lead climbers dynamically, so they are not stopped too abruptly in case of a fall. 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. The Figure-Eight – One of the RescueTECH offers the best of Rescue Descenders and Belay Devices Technical Rope Rescue.