Belay devices are important gear that any rock climber should have. As most rock climbers will tell you, there is a very great bond between the belay device and the climbers. The good thing about these devices is that most of them have a wide range of applications. For instance, they are ideal for ice and rock climbing, rescue missions and so many other outdoor activities. What these devices do is guarantee the maximum safety of the user.
When choosing a belay device, there are different things to consider. These will include, safety, ease of use, and versatility among others. Choosing a belay device, therefore, will be a daunting task now that the market has been flooded with these products. To assist our readers to make the best decision without using too much time we prepared this guide. It has the best 10 belay devices and a brief list of the factors to consider before choosing. Make sure to read the post from top to bottom so that you can understand everything about these devices.
List of 10 Best Belay Devices in 2024
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10. Trango Vergo Belay Device
This is among the most ergonomic belay devices that you will get in the world. It is basically designed to offer safety, smoothness, and reliability making a good device for rock climbing. It comes with visual indicators to guarantee that you use it correctly every time. The fact that it has a place for your thumb and index finger will give you even more comfort.
The main thing that makes this device unique is the manner in which it feeds the rope. As opposed to feeding the rope vertically, it does so in a horizontal design. For this reason, there is more arm motion and simple slack management. It is also made in different color options that you can pick from
- Ergonomic design
- Safe and reliable
- Intuitive use
- Smooth and simple
9. DMM Pivot Belay Device
This belay device is going to offer controlled belaying abseiling and also lowering. The pivot will enable the guide mode and consequently give easy controlling and lowering in just 2 seconds. The fact that it has been made in different color options gives you the freedom to select your best option.
Another great thing that you will like about this device is the fact that it has a high-performance internal geometry in order to give better rope control. With a weight of just 72 grams, you will appreciate the fact that this device will be very easy to store and carry.
- It has 2 friction modes
- Easy and controlled lowering
- It has been made in different color options
- The device basically gives controlled belaying
8. Geelife Rock Climbing Safety Equipment
One of the greatest features about the belay device from Geelife is that it has a wide range of applications. For instance, it will be ideal for cave rappelling, rescue missions, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities. You will also appreciate that it comes with the EC certification to prove its quality.
Another great feature about this device is that it has a good rope control regardless of the use that it is subjected to. Its teethed channel helps to create more friction for instant braking allowing you to fall safely. You will also have the choice of picking your ideal color from the different options available.
- Double slots construction
- Small structure and lightweight design
- Better rope control
- The belaying device has a wide range of applications
7. Ito Rocky Climbing Gear for 9-12mm Rope
The material used for this belay device is aluminum-magnesium alloy that despite being light in weight remains very strong. This is a CE-certified product that has a recommended weight capacity of 330 lbs. the manufacturers also made these devices in different color choices to accommodate the needs of different users.
Another great aspect about the belay device is that it is very easy to install and remove from its rope without necessarily disconnecting the harness. Its design will greatly help the descending tight passages not forgetting that it has a self-braking functionality to allow for easy stopping.
- It has a maximum load capacity of 330 lbs.
- Made for a wide range of applications
- A self-braking functionality for a simple topping
- It is very easy to install
6. AOKWIT Belaying and Rappelling Gear – 7075 Aluminum Alloy
This belay device uses friction between the descender and the rope in slowing down or braking. It has been made in an extra thick design and has ears and a belay slot in order to guarantee your safety. The device will, therefore, be ideal even for emergency situations.
Other than its superior baking resistance, you will also appreciate that this device has a very simple lock off. The fact that this will be done in a hands-free design makes the belay device very easy and convenient to use. You will also have the liberty to choose between the black and red color options provided.
- It has a simple lock-off
- Made in a multi-functional design
- Allows for smooth rope action
- Superior braking resistance
5. Black Diamond ATC Pilot
This is yet another belay device from one of the best brands around today. It has been made to accommodate ropes ranging from 8.7 to 10.5 mm. If you are looking to add the security level to the single pitch belays, this will be a great choice.
Another great feature about this product is that it has a smooth rope payout that offers controlled lowering. Being made of steel material, the device is not only strong but also gives the assurance that it is going to last for a very long time. You will also appreciate its ergonomic and non-slip design.
- Single rope use
- It has been made in a steel construction
- Ergonomic and non-slip surface
- Smooth rope payout for controlled lowering
4. GM CLIMBING Belay Device
This belay device has a V-grooved design that makes it convenient to carry everywhere that you go. The fact that it has a high rating means that this product is reliable and you should, therefore, buy with no worries. It also comes with teethed channels that help to increase its braking friction.
You will also appreciate that this device is compact, light and very easy to use. The manufacturers also made it in two color options and went ahead to price them at a very low price tag. Basically, this belay device will offer you safety without costing you too much.
- Double slots construction
- This is an ideal choice for climbers
- Better rope control
- Arrives at a relatively affordable price
3. EDELRID Mega Jul Belay Device
This belay device gives incredible value for your money. It is basically a quality belay device that was made to give rock climbers and other users the convenience they deserve. You will also be happy to learn that it works perfectly with abseiling or rappelling.
This device has a very small eyelet used for releasing this unit and has a carabiner for bringing your partner up. The device has been made to work flawlessly with ropes that range from 7.8 to 10.5 mm. Its sturdy stainless steel construction and high braking performance are other features you will like about it.
- High braking performance
- Robust steel construction
- Very lightweight construction
- It is also ideal for abseiling
2. Fusion Climb Aluminum Belay Device
This belay device has been made using aluminum material and comes with thick ears and a belay slot that makes it easy to use. With this device, you will realize that there is a very smooth rope action either when descending or when belaying.
The manufacturer has also made the device in blue and black colors from which buyers will choose. You also do not have to worry even if you will be shopping at a budget since the product comes at a very affordable price.
- Lightweight but strong design
- Allows for smooth rope action
- Available in two color options
- Comes at a very affordable price
1. PETZL Grigri Belay Device
If you are looking to enhance your safety during rock climbing, this is the device you need to buy. It has been made to accommodate ropes ranging from 8.9 mm to 11 mm that not only makes it versatile but also admirable. This is because it will satisfy the needs of different users and can be used for descending or belaying with no issues.
The assisted braking system will guarantee a very smooth lowering action. You will also appreciate that the product has been made of quality stainless steel and its friction plate will last for a long time. Its pictorial instructions, on the other hand, will also make sure that it remains very easy to use.
- Made with quality aluminum
- It comes in different color picks
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent and descent control
Belay Device – Buying Guide
- Durability: When shopping for a belay device, there are some things that you should never compromise even if you are on a budget. One of these factors will be durability since that determines the period of time that the device will be in use. To guarantee that the device you are about to purchase will last, it should be made of quality materials. Aluminum and stainless steel materials are the most preferred in this case.
- Ease of use: The device that you use should obviously give you the simplest time during its use. If this factor is compromised, you might also be compromising the safety of the user. For the best experience, you need to choose those models that do not have complicated usage procedures. A compact and portable device, in this case, will be ideal since it offers you the convenience you need when traveling.
- Performance: The main function of your belay device will be controlling the descent and ascent of the user. If you buy a product that cannot achieve that, you will be heading in the wrong direction. Make sure that the belay device you chose will perfectly accommodate your weight and the kind of rope you wish to use as well. This is the only way to make sure that you invest your money the right way.
Conclusion
Finding an ideal belay device has never been a simple task especially for first-time shoppers. The reason for this is that there are so many things that you will require to keep in mind before making the final decision. What’s more, there are so many products being offered for sale today. To help you select the best belay device, we selected the top 10 best devices that are recommended by buyers. We also highlighted some important factors to consider during the purchase. What is now left is for you to read through the compilation and make your decision.
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