Nowadays, there are ropes with very small diameters on the market. The latter ones help the rope to go through smoothly and provide a higher braking force.įigure eight descenders are available from numerous manufacturers, such as AustriAlpin, Mammut and Black Diamond. Figure eights are usually ring, V- or square shaped. However, it’s still a good option for abseiling and can be used with single, half and twin ropes. As a result, it’s no longer recommended for partner belaying. Over the years, safety research has shown that the figure eight has numerous disadvantages when it comes to lead belaying. Once upon a time, the figure 8 descender used to be the go-to belay device. For specialists and amateurs: the figure 8 descender There are even some models with additional eyelets available, so you can belay other climbers as well. In addition, tubers are very lightweight, which makes them great for alpine use. And, depending on their design, they can even be used with half or twin ropes. With the use of two rope channels, most tubers can also be used as descenders. Tubers are best suited for multi-pitch routes and for dynamic belaying. Not only are they great to handle, but their versatility also makes them a great choice. Typical examples are the Black Diamond ATC or the Reverso from Petzl. You can find a wide range of DAV-recommended products in our store. The following count as autotubers: Smart, Click Up, Ergo and Mega Jul.

However, according to the DAV’s (German Alpine Club) definition, they belong to the category of auto-locking devices and are therefore recommended belay devices. They also feature a blocking support, however they rely on the brake hand’s correct positioning.Īutotubers are usually considered to be somewhere between classic tubers and auto-locking devices. AutotubersĪutotubers are a subcategory of semi-automatic belay devices. Some classic examples of such belay devices include the Grigri2 from Petzl and the Matik from Camp. However, even if you’re using belay devices, you should always keep your hand on the brake rope.Įspecially for long routes, semi-automatic belay devices provide much more comfort. After a fall, the semi-automatic device blocks the rope and relieves the belayer who can therefore hold the brake rope with less force. Semi-automatic belay devices feature a blocking support. Sport climbing with a single rope Semi-automatic belay Plus, many belay devices can be used as descenders as well.Ī wide range of belay devices, starting from tubular types and figure-8 descenders to auto-locking devices, can be found in our shop. In comparison to belaying with a Munter hitch, belay devices are much more comfortable to handle and are gentler on the rope. Nowadays, a belay device is a must-have for climbing.

Atc belay device