Types of belay device Jul 17, 2025 · Types of Belay Devices These are a few types of belay devices: Tube devices pinch the rope when pulled in the braking direction. Easy to use, the rope can be threaded from different directions. 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 May 22, 2024 · A Guide to Belay Systems in Rock Climbing Introduction to Belay Systems Belay systems are the backbone of rock climbing safety. Here’s a breakdown of the primary types of belay devices and their uses to help you make an informed choice. There are different types of belay devices and the belay technique may be slightly different for each one. At Live Action Safety we carry a variety of different styles of descenders. Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. Some popular types include tubular devices, assisted braking devices, and figure-eight devices. If I somehow manage to skip an important category, feel free to give me a heads up. Tubular belay devices are the most common type of belay device. Some belay devices allow to belay the first climber, other are used to belay the second climber. First, we saw the tubular devices laying some solid foundations for belay devices futures. But have you ever stood in a gear shop, staring at a wall of belay devices, feeling completely lost? You’re not alone! Choosing the right one can be tricky. However, three main types of devices exist: tubular belay devices, assisted braking belay devices, and the figure 8. Ultimately, these are compact and In this video, we break down the different types of sport climbing belay devices and what makes each of them unique. Suitable for all Jun 12, 2024 · The type of belay device influences how effectively a belayer can manage rope slack, catch falls, and lower a climbing partner. 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. 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. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. 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. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of belay device so you can find the exact one you need. Here are our best belay device picks! 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. Keep reading to learn about the most iconic belay device– the Black Diamond ATC. This article covers some of today’s most common styles 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. They vary in price, ease of use, safety features, and level of assistance with braking. Whether you’re new to climbing or an experienced belayer, understanding your Jun 23, 2024 · By understanding the different types of devices available and their unique features, climbers can make informed decisions on which belay device is best suited for their specific needs. Belay devices are only used while top-rope climbing or lead climbing, indoors and outdoors, and are not used while bouldering. While there are many brand names on the market, the most common belay systems used… 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. 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 Nov 2, 2023 · Carabiners for Belaying The standard for belaying these days is a brake assisted belay device (required in many gyms). The choice of belay device depends on several factors, including the type of climbing you do, your level of experience, and personal preferences. We have aluminum and steel figure 8's as well as rescue racks, squeeze type descenders and tuba belays. 1. Mar 23, 2022 · Types of belay device Broadly speaking, there are two types of belay device: manual braking devices and assisted braking devices. Feb 25, 2008 · For the modern-climber's purposes, there are three major types of belay device: full-manual, self-braking, and mechanical-assist, each with its own inherent benefits and weaknesses. You can also filter by on sale belay devices with discounts >20%. Both the folding of the rope and the clipping of the carabiner add bends to the rope, which add friction to the overall system. Dynamic belay devices Dynamic belay devices are so called, because they enable dynamic belaying without the involvement of the body. Operating them is quiet simple, you just fold the rope, push it through and use a carabiner to either clip it to the belayer or the anchor. Look for Figure 8 and NFPA Rescue 8 descenders, rack-type descenders and specialized belay tools. Picking a rappelling device is a little bit different than picking a belay device. There are so many types, from simple plates to fancy Feb 14, 2020 · There are many different types of belay devices available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 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. Correct belaying methods allow a belayer to hold the entire weight of the climber with relatively little force and easily arrest falls. 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. 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. 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. Belay devices come in various designs but generally serve the same purpose: to control DOBLE The tube-shaped devices are very common and are suitable for all types of mountaineering and rock climbing. 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. Belay devices play a critical role in rock climbing, acting as a system that controls the rope during a climber’s ascent and descent. Dec 2, 2024 · Choosing the right type of belay device depends on various factors like the type of climbing, rope diameter, and personal preference. 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. 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). The result is a comprehensive comparison-tested review, and some The belay device; an essential item for sport climbing, trad climbing, alpine climbing and mountaineering. In the last 20 years belay devices have evolved immensly, passing from simple tubers, like the one on the right, to assisted-breaking mechanical Feb 22, 2020 · These belay devices are great for all kinds of climbing. Types of Belay Devices Various types of belay devices are available, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages. [1] It is designed to improve belay safety for the climber by allowing the belayer to manage their duties with minimal physical effort. Each type offers distinct features tailored to different climbing styles and scenarios. Holding the brake side of the rope helps engage the cam, so it always important to May 29, 2025 · Ever watched a climber confidently ascend a wall, their rope held taut by a small device? That’s a belay device in action! It’s the unsung hero of climbing, keeping climbers safe. Whether it’s a traditional tubular device or a more advanced assisted braking device, the key is to practice proper technique and always prioritize safety. 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. Find everything you need for your next adventure at Backcountry. I do personally love and recommend using a double or triple action auto locking biner for your belay device. Dec 16, 2021 · There are four main types of belay devices, but they all serve the same purpose — to prevent the climber from falling. "We are May 27, 2024 · A belay device is a critical tool for climbing safety, providing friction on the climbing rope to help secure and protect the climber. The three primary types of belay devices are assisted-braking devices, tubular devices, and figure eight devices. These belay devices feature 2 slots for your rope, allowing you to belay, rappel, or climb using a two-rope system. 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. 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. May 6, 2020 · The range of belay devices has grown exponentially in the last few years, which means there’s plenty to choose from. Delivering quality value and workmanship in descent devices, but above all, in service to both career and volunteer rope rescue professionals. Explore the different types of belay devices and learn what suits you best with our buying guide. Each device has its unique features and functions, but they all serve the same purpose of controlling rope tension 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. It is designed for the gym or crag and is intended for all users. See every climbing brand, compare every detail, and find the best price. Includes the pros and cons of tubular, assisted braking and Figure 8 devices. Here are our in-depth reviews. com Learn how to choose a belay device for rock climbing. Some devices are better suited for rappelling, others for belaying, and others for gym-climbing. May 5, 2025 · A belay device is essential for catching falls anytime you're climbing on a rope. From dynamic brakes to manual blocking devices, we'll help you find the perfect device for your climbing adventure. Assisted-braking devices have a camming mechanism that locks the rope during a fall. Having the correct descender when descending will make a difference. He clearly shows the differing styles of belay devices while Dec 15, 2020 · The belay device is a tool climbers use to manage rope slack/tension, catch a fall and lower their climbing partner. For example, some of them are built for all-around use, while others have very specific functions and may not work as well as The higher the braking force of the belay device, the less manual force the belayer needs. 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. So, let’s get into it! Oct 21, 2025 · HOATER's belay devices, available in various styles for enhanced safety, versatility, and ease of use. The Figure-Eight – One of the Belay Device Types - Search Results. The belayer uses their braking hand to create friction on the rope, enabling them to control the rope’s speed and lock it off if necessary. It is especially important to belay lead climbers dynamically, so they are not stopped too abruptly in case of a fall. Multipurpose belay devices allow to belay in both situations and to rappel. We’ve sorted this guide from the most popular to least popular belay device styles used by climbers today. For example, a tube-style belay device like the Black Diamond ATC is a versatile option suitable for different climbing styles and rope diameters. Follow along with Gearheads Alex Quitiquit and Nils Mindnich as they dive into three of their favorite Nov 11, 2025 · Find the best belay device for your climbing style in our November 2025 review. For an overview of basic climbing gear, see Getting Started Rock Climbing. 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 Learn the key differences between descenders and belay devices. The friction caused between the bend rope and belay device helps slow down or stop the rope. Examples of tube-style belay devices include the Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, and Mammut Smart. Feb 22, 2020 · The belay device you choose to use will depend on personal preference and the type of climbing you do. Perfect for rope rescue systems, belay gear, and climbing applications. A belay device is a mechanical device that is attached to the belayer’s harness and is used to take in the slack rope. Belaying is a critical skill that every climber has to learn early on. WHAT IS A BELAY DEVICE? A Belay Device is any device used to stop a rope. 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. With the right belay device, a small, weak climber can easily arrest the fall of a much heavier partner. Suitable for all Stoked for climbing season? Let’s chat belay devices. 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. There are two primary categories that belay devices fall under: either non-assisted braking, or assisted braking. 3 Methods Of Belaying From Above There are 3 methods of belaying from the top. 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. We test top models from Black Diamond & Petzl for performance and safety. Figure-eight devices are mostly used for rappelling, but they can work for belaying too. These are the types of belay devices that you're most like to see around the crag. Lightweight, it can be used for both belaying and rappelling, providing good control over the rope. Includes products by RescueTECH, ISC, Traverse Rescue, Anthron, CMI. . We explain the different types there is and offer a description of every belay device we stock. The choice depends on the kind of climbing—whether it’s multipitch trad climbing, sport climbing, gym climbing, or even rescue operations. The belay device takes most of the load so your partner doesn’t have to. But I'd definitely go with an active assisted braking belay device like the ones I mentioned in this post. ( Has pictures of how to use the device on it. They have a tube-like shape with two slots or channels for the rope to pass through. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ belay/rappel devices. Regardless of your belay device, these rules are always true: 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. However, there are two types of braking systems utilized for a controlled descent: magnetic and friction based. Jan 4, 2024 · We break down every type of belay device and talk about where belaying started, and talk about which devices work best for your style of climbing. They provide the critical link between climber and belayer, ensuring that falls are safely arrested and controlled. 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. 2024 Climb Guide Harnesses, Ropes, Pro, Pads, Shoes & More Explore 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. Outdoor gear and clothing from big brands to the small and undiscovered. Rack type, more commonly used for cave descents or longer depths. 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. RescueTECH offers the best of Rescue Descenders and Belay Devices Technical Rope Rescue. Sep 14, 2021 · The most common types of rappeling are the standard rappel, Australian rappel, tandem rappel, military rappel, and free rappel. Jun 28, 2018 · Belay is the primary safety system used to protect people while at height. This device, along with the belayer’s quick “braking hand,” ensures the rope stays taut, safeguarding the climber. Belaying is a critical part of climbing safety. See full list on climbinghouse. Types of Belay Devices There In this video Reuben from Next Adventure discusses how to choose a belay device that is right for you and your style of climbing. Check with your climbing instructor to see if you need to bring any additional gear. 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. Your belay device — that little piece of metal connecting the belayer to the climber — plays a key role in everyone's safety. Once you know and understand how to belay with one, you should be able to apply these skills to the other. This article covers how to belay with an ATC. Holding the brake side of the rope helps engage the cam, so it always important to The choice of a belay device can impact the ease of use, level of control, and safety during a climb. Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. 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. But before learning about each method, let’s Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. Personal Escape for more single use applications. At Rescue Tech we carry a wide variety of Rope Rescue Descenders and Belay Devices. 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 Whats goes up must come down. 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. 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. Belay devices without blocking function These belay devices allows dynamic belay with slip of a rope. They consist of a simple tube with slots for the rope. Dec 22, 2022 · The Petzl GriGri Belay Device The Petzl Grigri is a legendary belay device. 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 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. Jul 26, 2024 · This buying guide offers advice for anyone wanting to purchase a new belay device, or add to their existing collection. I recommend trying out the different types. Then came the idea of assisted braking devices. Types of belay devices: Your belay Find the best belay devices from Black Diamond, CAMP, DMM, Edelrid, Grivel, Mammut, Petzl, Wild Country. It is most well known for its assisted-braking cam feature that adds security when the climber falls. Many devices have become quite use-specific, but they all follow the basic principle: the device will help you to control the flow of the rope, and therefore, help you to stop a falling climber. There are several types of belay devices, each with its own pros, cons, and Nov 6, 2022 · The tube-style device, assisted braking devices, and other belay devices have changed the face of what it means to belay. A belay device is a mechanical piece of climbing equipment used to control a rope during belaying. Explore how each climbing tool works, their uses, safety tips, and expert advice from Mountain Extreme. 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). Other devices are useful for specific things but for like 99% of situations, a grigri is all around better. WHAT devices will be permitted? 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. Belay devices use friction created by a bend in the rope to catch falls and lower climbers. Examples of tubular belay devices include the Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, and DMM Pivot. it. 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. May 26, 2022 · The type of device we recommend largely has to do with the type of climbing situation you find yourself in. Tubular belay devices These are very versatile devices and hence are suited for any kind of climbing be it trad, sport or indoor. As you might know, there are many different types of belay devices and each one of them will have specific instructions that you must learn and practice before using it. 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. Some common types include tubular devices, assisted braking devices, and figure-eight devices. Also assisted braking descenders often used for rescue. In the modern day, most climbers use a variety of gear to belay, notably May 7, 2025 · Where, when, and what type of locker to use in any given situation is up to you, but the most common uses while climbing are on your belay and rappel device, as a master point of an anchor, as the connection point for a Personal Anchoring System (PAS), and to construct equalized multi-pitch anchors. 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. The Communication Piece Grigri. Apr 27, 2021 · We bought and field tested 6 of the best belay devices in 2025 from top brands like Petzl and Black Diamond. Belaying with an ATC involves knowing how to: Set up the ATC belay device Belay … 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. Oct 8, 2023 · Discover the world of climbing belay devices with Antonio from Mountainreview. Take a belay class from a climbing instructor anywhere in the world. 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. Tubular Style Belay Device The classic. As climbing evolves, so do the technology, techniques, and best practices we use to mitigate the risk of our May 28, 2019 · Types of Belay Devices: Tube-style belay devices: These devices are the most common type of belay device used by climbers. Generally, different types of belay devices are aimed at different activities. It saves time and is safer imo. Furthermore, when it is time to Petzl USA. Knowing which belay device to use for every occasion and how to operate the device properly is key for safety and success when it comes to climbing ropes. Keep reading to learn how to use a rappel device when rappelling. There are many different types of belay devices, but the main categories boil down to just six types. They are versatile and can be used for both lead and top-rope climbing. Mar 16, 2022 · But nearly every belay device uses the same general principles to function and operate correctly. 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. Find the ideal belay device for your needs today! Aug 15, 2024 · The belay device, attached to the belayer’s harness, controls the rope’s movement, allowing for a smooth descent and rapid arrest in the event of a fall. 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. Tubular Belay Devices: Tubular belay devices are the most widely used type. Browse our wide selection and save today. Direct belay – this is the recommended method by climbing schools today Redirected belay – this is the method used for many years and is still common today Indirect belay These 3 methods differ in how the belay devices are being set up and how the belaying is done. 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. Provides good friction, great for rappelling and belaying. The mechanical brake assist devices, like the Petzl GriGri or Independent belay/rappel device reviews by real outdoors people. In this article you’ll find a no-nonsense summary of the different types of belay device out there. Tube belay devices or ‘tubers’ are by far the most common type used. To ascend, the lanyard is simply wound into the device by a retraction spring as you climb. Nov 24, 2024 · This is the like the Facebook to Myspace of belay devices. This post is going to cover one of the most basic pieces of equipment, the rappel device. 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. Tube-style belay devices offer great versatility and are ideal for experienced climbers. Compact and versatile belay device with cam-assisted blocking for lead and top rope climbing Assisted Braking Device Policy Effective March 1st, 2021 ÜG will require the use of Assisted Braking Devices for all top rope & lead belaying. Aug 26, 2025 · New to climbing? Learn how to choose the best belay devices for beginners with our simple guide to safety, types, features, and top picks. ysnp yfokr qwfz xbnj octsxsl dbcg rmhbgs krjrqvd cepo wwmxpj ewpgk dhkaul zyqnl qhae igdsch