Best belay device for beginners reddit. The grigri2 is the right option.

Best belay device for beginners reddit This guide explains how each model handles braking, blocking, and rope handling, helping new climbers pick a device that matches their Sep 14, 2020 · Ultimately the best things you can do as a beginner belayer are to get proper instruction, be open to criticism and changing of your technique, and to get practice in soon after learning. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. Over 100,000 Happy Users. I will always bring a grigri OR a megajul. 274 votes, 101 comments. 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. 00. Any belay device is dangerous without proper training. Also nice to give to beginners for its assisted braking. What is/would be your preffered way to rappel on a 6mm rope like the petzl rad line? Are there any devices like the petzl reverso or black diamond atc that work on a 6mm rope? thanks in advance for help:) We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. ” Antin noted The best part of technical canyoneering or canyoning is the rappels- without them, it wouldn’t be technical canyoneering. Jan 11, 2018 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Dec 13, 2023 · The Best Device to Use in a Pinch Most guides carry both the GriGri and the ATC, but in a pinch, they may rely on one device over the other. Say goodbye to gear jitters and hello to smooth, controlled descents. 3M subscribers in the climbing community. Aug 15, 2025 · Find the perfect assisted braking belay device. If possible, practice belaying with friends belay devices to get a feel of what works best for you. In this post, we’ll cover belay techniques, safety precautions, climbing etiquette, and tips for beginners to help you become a confident and responsible climber. It functions just like a GriGri, but it has a panic handle. Price Matching. With the G+ that can be mitigated. There isn't a reason for you to own a grigri+, they're the ideal device for gyms that don't want their gear to wear out, you'd outgrow the beginner antipanic features in days. com 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. The home of Climbing on reddit. Here are our best belay device picks! Hey Tundrawolf_ This is from wikipedia: [. Will be weird to belay from the top with. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ belay/rappel devices. I am looking into purchasing my first harness and belay device – during the course we were taught to belay with the Black Diamond ATC Pilot and were also introduced to resistance devices like the Ohm for bigger weight differences. Some prefer high friction ones, some prefer ones where it's easier to feed rope when you need it, there's always a trade off. Especially from those who have already have had a chance to use them… Jun 19, 2023 · Switch for lead/belay Anti-panic system in the handle (good for new belayers) Final Thoughts The Petzl GriGri is widely considered one of the best belay devices out there as they are very beginner-friendly and have phenomenal safety measures thanks to their cam-assisted braking system. Although Kochendörfer prefers an ATC or an alternative device to the GriGri, he admits that there are some situations in which the GriGri excels: “The only occasion where we use GriGri-like devices is for tree rescue and lift rescue. needs to be taut so that she can't get lifted and 2. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. But it's not unsafe for the purpose; even my extraordinarily liability-fearing gym has us self-belay with grigris for setting purposes. Undoubtedly, you cannot go wrong with getting a GriGri. . It has assisted braking but it probably isn't one of the top 3 the assisted braking devices on the market. It offers several features that many will see as improvements over the standard GriGri, including an anti-panic handle and two different modes for top-rope and lead belaying. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or just starting out, finding the perfect belay device is crucial for a successful climbing experience. While many novice canyoneers start out with simple belay or rappel devices like an ATC or an 8-ring, these elementary options won’t meet the needs of more advanced canyoneers. Independent belay/rappel device reviews by real outdoors people. It’s certainly not for beginners, but you can get good at it after a decent amount of practice with belay devices. she needs to use another locking carabiner for her belay device. There isn't anything on the market that remotely comes close to the ease of use for lead belay. What brand in particular. Ideally We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Jul 24, 2025 · Concise belay devices reviews tailored to your needs. There was a beginner in the gym tonight who put the daisy chain through the same locking carabiner as her belay device. [1] The claim against usage for lead climbing is that since the device auto-locks, the belayer is required to hold the device open while feeding rope to the leader. The best device for newcomers should be user-friendly, safe, and versatile. The safest belay devices would be stuff like the grigri or trango cinch, but they sacrifice handling. We break down key differences among the Grigri, Neox, Edelrid Pinch, and more top picks. The pilot wont let you rappel. The actual climbing with a gri-gri on self belay is therefore way worse, but general headache levels are a million times lower. I hear that the grigri petzl is particularly good. It’s got the grip, the versatility, and the reliability you need to scale those heights with confidence. ]though Petzl recommends the device for use in both applications. Also, as a belay certified climber (i. Basically the best belay device is the one you feel is like an extension of your own body, you should be comfortable using it without having to think about it. Thousands Of Reviews. We test top models from Black Diamond & Petzl for performance and safety. Feb 2, 2024 · However many climbers are wondering what’s the best option to add some extra security to your toughest routes? A belay device, but not just any standard one… we only present some of the best belay climbing devices you can possibly find on the market! Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. Dec 11, 2020 · Rappelling Belay Device ~ The Most Crucial Of Them All! The belay devices are obviously the most important tools in the rappelling gear setup. We can be confident of that Apr 29, 2024 · Don’t hit the wall without these tester-approved climbing tools, including belay devices, stick clips, cams, screwlocks, and more. The reverso is made for multipitch climbing. As a beginner climber, I bought the cheapest gear on the market and it worked for me. Aug 5, 2022 · The best rock climbing gear for beginners, including climbing shoes, climbing harnesses, belay devices, climbing helmets, and climbing apparel, from brands like La Sportiva, Petzl, Black Diamond Feb 6, 2023 · We've Compiled 6,500+ Free Reviews to Find You The Best Belay Device For Beginner. Sep 15, 2020 · A dedicated belay biner can make a world of difference. 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). 2024 Climb Guide Harnesses, Ropes, Pro, Pads, Shoes & More Explore 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. The grigri2 is the right option. Save. I’m wondering what peoples thoughts are about the new belay device from petzl. e. Step 1: Anchoring Your rope should be anchored right below the edge of the cliff so that it doesn’t rub against the edges. Belay Techniques Just like a good recipe requires the right ingredients, a successful belay technique needs the right combination of skills and Whenever I teach people how to belay, I always get them started on an ATC, and I always have someone else on butt belay. 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. Sep 20, 2024 · Mastering belay techniques is crucial for a safe and enjoyable climbing experience. Apr 27, 2021 · We bought and field tested 6 of the best belay devices in 2025 from top brands like Petzl and Black Diamond. Because we believe the best belay device is not the best for everyone. Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. Here are our in-depth reviews. I told her that 1. If you rock climb with a rope, you need a belay device. 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 +. What’s a Belay Device? A belay device is climbing equipment that gives a belay to a climber. Read our review to see why it's our climbing editor's first choice. However, if you know how to belay and you are ready to purchase your own device or your second device, you may also be looking for added peace of mind from a device that has extra safety features. Is there a passive device like the mega jul, atc pilot, or something else that folks like? Jan 3, 2024 · GriGri vs ATC Belay Device: What’s The Difference? What is an ATC? The ATC climbing device, which stands for Air Traffic Control, is a tube-style belay device, usually with two holes and a plastic-wrapped loop of braided wire connected to the underside. It functions as a tube device when belaying, and then allows you to belay up a partner in guide mode from the top, and it allows you rappel. 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. Here are 7 of the best belay devices and what makes them great as well as what you would want to think about when using them if they would be right for you. Team grigri here. 1. Best Beginner Belay Device For Top Roping Or Lead Climbing Every device we recommend works well for both lead climbing and top roping. Jun 12, 2024 · Meet your new best belay buddy: the Black Diamond ATC-XP! Whether you’re a climbing newbie or a seasoned pro, this belay device is here to boost your game. The device can be used with a wide range of rope diameters, from 8. 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. How to self-belay? Is it safe? Self-belaying is relatively safer if you’re aware of which self-belaying system and technique suit your style. A common mistake while belaying a lead climber is to hold open the device the entire time, thus defeating the auto-locking Dec 5, 2024 · The Neox might be the best belay device for lead climbing and single-pitch climbing, but the similar Petzl GriGri is more versatile and remains our favorite overall belay device for its versatility. Jun 1, 2021 · 1. I just got into climbing and have gotten myself both top rope and lead certified through a certified course. Jul 17, 2025 · Choosing a belay device as a beginner means balancing safety, ease of use, and rope compatibility. The grigri has extra safety features that other devices do not and as such generates more complacency (deadliest thing to a climber). Their special designs allow you to control the descending speed by creating friction with the rope. The backup belayer manages the rope, monitors the belayer's technique, and can brake off the rope if the belayer is unable to for some reason. Petzl Reverso on multipitch for belaying in guide mode or if gear is anything less than solid. And yes we are scared of falling. The grigri+ is a different device based on the same concept, not just a straight improvement over the grigri2. (I am in no way affiliated with this site) comments sorted by Best Top New Controversial Q&A Add a Comment kmentropy • Additional comment actions We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. See full list on outdoorgearlab. Also, can the grigri be used for rappelling as well? Share Add a Comment Sort by: Best Open comment sort options Best Top New Controversial Old Q&A wiredog369 • We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. This is nice because with the GriGri, the only time I'm really worried about a new climber making a mistake is during lowering. This is a pain in the ass. , you answered the questions), you're able to supervise/teach someone who does not know how to belay, in which case you commit to actually supervising them, and they're allowed to belay anyone except you in either style using any belay device during that time at your discretion. The GriGri + is a belay device best suited for very new climbers belaying on top rope. trueI was wondering what assisted braking devices folks like for ice climbing? I have always used a Petzl reverso when ice climbing before. What is the Best Belay Device for Beginners? Choosing the right belay device is crucial for beginners in rock climbing. When you use the same device consistently, you become intimately familiar with its nuances and performance characteristics. FWIW I use my grigri for almost everything and I usually don't carry a second device. Feb 3, 2022 · When using assisted-braking belay devices for a rope solo, there is always the added risk that the device could jam, fail to lock correctly, or cross-load the carabiner, as it’s not always in Nov 11, 2025 · Find the best belay device for your climbing style in our November 2025 review. It's very popular so most people have probably used one before. Here are some top recommendations: Rope, harness, belay device, biner, chalk bag and chalk $160. The ATC-Pilot is hands-down the best belay device I've ever used. As long as you are properly belaying, then any brand new belay device should work for you too. Aug 6, 2021 · Not sure which belay device to get? We tested the Petzl GriGri 2 and Black Diamond ATC side-by-side to help you know which is right for you. There are other assisted tube style devices but IMO the megajul is the best because of its size/weight and its functions (assisted brake, ability to rap with two strands or belay on half ropes). You can find dozens of belay devices on the market. Get ready to elevate your climbing adventures! So the best handling belay device would probably be the petzl reverso 2 (with the loop for autoblock mode), but it doesn't have any breaking capabilities when you're belaying the leader or using a toprope. The following five devices cover a spectrum from simple ATCs to assisted-braking designs, providing reliable control for top-rope and start-to-lead belays. However, with all gyms requiring GriGris inside, I have started to think more about getting something with a brake assist for ice climbing. But I need someone to recommend me something else as well. Apr 28, 2025 · Here are some tips and the best method for giving a good toprope belay, whether you’re using a tube device like an ATC or a brake-assisted belay device like the grigri. Read our four top picks for the best belay carabiner and treat your partner to a deluxe belay! Aug 13, 2024 · The Edelrid Pinch is a much-anticipated assisted braking belay device. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. 5mm May 7, 2025 · The best belay devices offer enhanced control and braking assistance, crucial for both experienced climbers and those just starting out. GriGri when climber will be working a route. Dec 2, 2024 · That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 11 best belay devices currently available, along with a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.