Belay Devices

[Sponsored by Petzl]

A new and improved assisted-braking belay device.

Petzl’s GRIGRI has once again evolved into the next generation model—the Plus.

Field test review of the new Edelrid Mega Jul belay device, a serious contender for a "semi-auto" device.

According to Mammut, the Smart Alpine is the first “braking-force support” device that can be used with single, twin and half ropes.

In the 20 years since the Petzl Grigri was invented, no other single-rope “brake-assisted” belay device has been able to compete with it in ergonomics, reliability and performance. Until now.

Let us give thanks for auto-locking devices, for they have saved our butts. They allow us to loaf on portaledges, bolt sport climbs, hold our hang-dogging chums and zip down single lines.

The Eddy is no Grigri, and it costs twice as much. Need to read more? OK: The Eddy, Edelrid's new auto-locking device, intends to improve on what could be perceived as Grigri weaknesses – those being the danger of holding the lever open or not clipping the two side plates together.

Mammut bills its Smart device as a tool for gym and sport climbers.

There are nearly 50 different belay devices on the market, and fewer than five qualify as “auto-locking.”