r/lists • Posted by Liam O'Connell🏕️ Outdoors

Essential Belay Devices for New and Experienced Climbers

Essential Belay Devices for New and Experienced ClimbersAlright, fellow climbers! Whether you're just starting out at the gym or tackling multi-pitch routes, a reliable belay device is non-negotiable. I've put together a list of my top picks, from simple, classic designs to advanced assisted-braking options, to keep you and your partner safe on the rock.
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  1. 1

    Black Diamond ATC

    blackdiamondequipment.com
    This is a timeless classic and often the first device many climbers learn on. It's super simple, lightweight, and versatile for both belaying and rappelling.
  2. 2

    Black Diamond ATC-XP

    blackdiamondequipment.com
    An upgrade from the original ATC, the ATC-XP offers enhanced friction modes for better stopping power, especially with thinner ropes or heavier climbers. It's a solid, durable choice for everyday climbing.
  3. 3

    Black Diamond ATC Guide

    blackdiamondequipment.com
    For those venturing into multi-pitch or guide mode scenarios, the ATC Guide is a fantastic choice. It lets you belay one or two followers directly from the anchor and offers multiple friction modes for versatility.
  4. 4

    Petzl GRIGRI

    petzl.com
    The GRIGRI is an iconic assisted-braking device that's a favorite for sport climbing and gym use. Its camming mechanism helps catch falls, making belaying more comfortable, especially when working routes.
  5. 5

    Petzl GRIGRI+

    petzl.com
    Building on the classic GRIGRI, the GRIGRI+ adds an anti-panic handle and a selectable top-rope mode, making it an excellent choice for new belayers or those looking for extra security.
  6. 6

    Petzl Reverso

    petzl.com
    This device is a multi-pitch workhorse, known for its versatility and lightweight design. You can use it for belaying a leader, rappelling, and, crucially, belaying one or two seconds in auto-blocking mode.
  7. 7

    Mammut Smart 2.0

    mammut.com
    The Smart 2.0 is a fantastic geometry-assisted braking device that's intuitive and lightweight. It provides an added layer of security without the moving parts of some other assisted-braking devices, great for gym and sport climbing.
  8. 8

    Edelrid GigaJul

    edelrid.com
    If you want one device that does it all, the GigaJul is a strong contender. It combines standard tube-style belaying with an assisted-braking function and auto-blocking guide mode, making it incredibly versatile for various climbing situations.
  9. 9

    Climbing Technology Click Up

    climbingtechnology.com
    The Click Up is a user-friendly assisted-braking device, particularly good for single-pitch climbing in the gym or at the crag. It's designed for smooth rope feeding and intuitive fall arrest.
  10. 10

    Wild Country Revo

    wildcountry.com
    The Revo is truly unique, offering a bi-directional, panic-proof locking mechanism that works regardless of rope direction. It feels much like a traditional tube device during normal belaying but has an impressive backup system.
  11. 11

    Edelrid Mega Jul

    edelrid.com
    A lighter and simpler version of the GigaJul, the Mega Jul is another excellent assisted-braking tube-style device, perfect for those looking for a lightweight option that handles a range of rope diameters.

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