The 10 Best Belay Devices
This review has been updated 14 times since it was first published in September of 2021. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor climber or a newbie in the gym, you should never try an ascent without the proper equipment. These belay devices feature the latest in safety technology to arrest any falls and ensure that you and your companions are secure no matter the situation. We’ve included models ideal for all sorts of climbing, from traditional and sport to alpine ascents.
10. GM Climbing Micro
For those just starting out indoors, this simple version from GM Climbing Micro has teethed V-grooved slots to provide friction when working with a partner. The dual openings allow for single- or double-rope climbs, which is useful when learning in teams of three.
- Built with an aluminum alloy
- Lightweight at under three ounces
- Less sturdy than larger options
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
9. Wild Country Pro Guide Lite
The Wild Country Pro Guide Lite can work with ropes as slender as 7.7 millimeters in diameter or as thick as 1.1 centimeters. It also features markings for where those lines should go, which is helpful for beginners still getting the hang of climbing outdoors.
- High-efficiency braking slots
- Can handle multiple ropes at once
- Not the lightest model available
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
8. Fusion Titan Terminal 8 Descender
Made from rigid aluminum and coming in black or silver, the Fusion Titan Terminal 8 Descender is a great choice for those with a full day of rappelling ahead of them. Its large inside diameter lets you tie off ropes and even pass large knots, allowing for smooth operation.
- Popular among rescue personnel
- 45 kilonewtons max braking strength
- Bulky design makes it hard to carry
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
7. Petzl Reverso 4
The Petzl Reverso 4 includes carabiner holes that make it easy to lock into a fixed protection point, offering your teammates the safest possible belay. It’s the lightest model to feature an auto-block mode for multi-pitch climbing, and can also be used for abseiling.
- Hot-forged aluminum body
- Ultralight design
- Larger ropes will drag
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
6. Edelrid MegaJul
Lightweight and affordable, the Edelrid MegaJul is perfect for casual weekend climbers or serving as a backup tool for more serious practitioners. It feeds out line with little resistance, making it suitable for lead climbing, though rappelling with it can be difficult.
- Made in germany
- Very durable construction
- Steel can get hot
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
5. Mammut Smart Apline
If you’re doing any sort of ice climbing or mountaineering, consider the Mammut Smart Apline. It’s designed specifically with those applications in mind, as it accepts double and half lines as well as thin single ropes, and locks even at low levels of user-exerted force.
- Comes in two sizes
- Best for experienced users
- Some ropes may slip a little
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
4. Black Diamond Big Air XP
The Black Diamond Big Air XP package comes with a mini locking carabiner, so all you need is a harness, a rope, and a wall. It features a high-friction mode that offers increased stopping power for when you need a little extra help, making it great for beginners.
- More lightweight than previous model
- Brake teeth provide fall protection
- Not for multi-pitch climbs
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
3. Camp USA Matik
A single-line device with a multitude of safety features, the Camp USA Matik boasts a proprietary anti-panic system that automatically blocks the rope if it’s dropped during a descent. The gradual camming action reduces the impact of falls, as well as wear and tear.
- Wide hole for carabiners
- Straight rope path for fluid motion
- Great for all experience levels
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
2. Climbing Technology Click-Up
Gym and sport enthusiasts will appreciate the Climbing Technology Click-Up, which combines the functionalities of both tube and assisted braking-style devices. The included carabiner can be used to apply pressure on the line, helping to control its speed while lowering.
- It’s simple to use
- Very smooth feed
- Good value for price
SEE PRICE ON AMAZON
1. Petzl GriGri +
GThe popular Petzl GriGri + is an expert-level climbing tool perfect for guides or for experienced teams undertaking challenging ascents that require maximum caution. It uses a safe, self-braking system that pinches the rope to stop falls, ensuring accidents are avoided.
- Smooth lowering action
- Works for solo or lead climbing
- Low resistance in auto-block mode
