Best Climbing Belay & Rappel Equipment of 2026
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Climbing is an exhilarating activity that requires proper equipment to ensure safety. Belay and rappel equipment are crucial pieces of gear for climbers. Belay devices, such as the GriGri, are used to control the rope and prevent falls. Rappel devices, such as the ATC, allow climbers to descend safely down the rope. Climbing harnesses and helmets are also essential for safety. It's important to invest in high-quality, durable equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable climbing experience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Climbing Belay & Rappel Equipment
Petzl GRIGRI Belay Device
The Petzl GRIGRI Belay Device is a versatile climbing belay device that offers progressive descent control, cam-assisted blocking, comfort, and convenience. With a 3:1 mechanical advantage, the camming mechanism helps smoothly control the rope and reduce lowering efforts, making it suitable for sport, trad, and top-rope climbing, regardless of rope diameter. The cam-assisted blocking ensures a comfortable belay by automatically cinching down to arrest the rope when the climber falls or weights the rope. The engraved rope installation diagram serves as a friendly reminder for both novices and experts. The ergonomic handle allows easy unblocking of the rope and lowering someone. Lightweight and compact, weighing only 175 grams, it is a durable and reliable belay device. Compatible with 8.5 to 11 mm dynamic single ropes, the Petzl GRIGRI Belay Device is a trusted choice for climbers of all levels.
Petzl GRIGRI Belay Device
The Petzl GRIGRI Belay offers smooth control when lowering a climber thanks to its camming mechanism, which reduces the effort needed regardless of rope thickness. Its cam-assisted blocking feature automatically tightens the rope if the climber falls, giving you added security and confidence. The device is easy to use for both lead and top-rope belaying, with helpful rope installation diagrams engraved for quick reference. Plus, the ergonomic handle lets you effortlessly release the rope and lower your partner, making the whole belaying process comfortable and convenient. This lightweight and compact design is ideal for climbers of all levels.
Belay Glasses for Rock Climbing
These belay glasses are a must-have for rock climbers. They are comfortable to wear and provide a clear view of the climber and surroundings while belaying. The glasses are made with high-quality materials and have a sturdy design. They come with a hard case, carabiner, neck strap, microfiber glasses cloth and spare screws. The prisms are perfectly aligned and angled at 60° for optimal belaying. Additionally, these glasses are compatible with eyeglasses and sunglasses.
Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device (Blue)
The Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device is a versatile climbing tool that can accommodate ropes ranging from 7.7 to 11mm. It features a high-friction mode which provides three times more stopping power than the regular friction mode. The device has machined windows that reduce its weight and a durable cable that prevents tangling with the ropes. With a weight of only 64g, the Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device is a lightweight and reliable option for climbers.
BLACK DIAMOND Super 8 Belay Rappel Device
The BLACK DIAMOND Super 8 offers a lightweight figure-8 design that helps you handle rope smoothly and with control, making it easier to belay or rappel safely. It works well with many rope sizes, so you get reliable performance whether you're doing single-rope rappels or technical climbing moves. Made from durable, hot-forged aluminum, this device is built to last through rough use on rock or rescue missions without adding extra weight. Plus, its simple shape lets you set it up quickly, even when wearing gloves or working in tough conditions. This makes the BLACK DIAMOND Super 8 a dependable choice for climbers and rescuers alike.
Black Diamond Big Air XP Package
The Black Diamond Big Air XP Package is a climbing belay and rappel equipment set that includes an ATC-XP belay/rappel device, a Mini Pearabiner screwgate carabiner, and a high friction mode that provides 3 times more hold and stopping power than the regular friction mode. Weighing just 133g (4.7 oz), this package is lightweight and easy to carry during your climbing adventures.
AOKWIT 50KN Rescue Figure 8 Descender
The AOKWIT 50KN Rescue Figure 8 Descender is a climbing device that uses friction to slow descent or brake. It has superior breaking resistance and offers superb control on rope. The big wall climbing terminal 8 with ears is an improvement over standard figure 8 devices with improved breaking and safety features. The bent-ear design also makes it easy to lock-off with both hands free. Suitable for various climbing activities and rescue situations.
Petzl GRIGRI 3 Belay Device
The Petzl GRIGRI 3 Belay Device is an assisted braking belay device that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor climbing, designed for all climbers. The device can be used on all single ropes (8.5 to 11 mm in diameter) and optimized for 8.9 to 10.5 mm diameters. Its durability for intensive use is great, thanks to the stainless steel wear plate, and it is lightweight, weighing only 175 grams.
PETZL GRIGRI+ Belay Device
The PETZL GRIGRI+ Belay offers smooth and controlled rope handling with its progressive descent control, making lowering easier regardless of rope thickness. Its cam-assisted blocking feature automatically locks the rope when the climber falls or puts weight on it, providing added safety and peace of mind. The anti-panic handle is especially helpful for beginners or belayers managing a heavier climber, as it stops descent if you pull too hard. Plus, the lockable selector knob allows you to switch between top rope and lead belay modes, making it simple to adjust for different climbing styles and keep slack management comfortable during long sessions.
RESQT Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Climbing Ascender
The RESQT Climbing Ascender is made from lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy, making it easy for you to carry while ensuring strength and durability. Its design includes a safety rope grab clamp with lockable holes, so you can securely attach a carabiner, enhancing your protection during climbs. The device automatically grips the rope if your body tilts or if you lose weight balance, helping to stop falls and keep you safe. This versatile ascender is suitable for many activities, including rock climbing, tree climbing, rescue work, and aerial tasks, providing reliable support in various situations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you rappel with a belay device?
Yes, you can rappel with a belay device. Most belay devices are designed to work for both belaying and rappelling. They grip the rope and allow for a slow and controlled descent. There are different types of belay devices available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
2. Is belaying the same as rappelling?
No, belaying and rappelling are not the same. Belaying involves the belayer remaining stationary while the rope moves. Rappelling, on the other hand, involves the rope remaining stationary while the rappeller lowers themselves down the rope. In belaying, the belayer controls the rope for the climber, while in rappelling, the individual controls their own descent.
3. How many carabiners do I need for rappelling?
You should have at least three locking carabiners for rappelling, ideally four or more. These carabiners are used to secure the rope and create a safe rappelling setup. Additionally, a locking carabiner or a rappel ring is needed to run the rope through.
4. Can I rappel with a GRIGRI?
No, it is not possible to rappel with a GRIGRI on the two strands coming out of the anchor. When using a GRIGRI for rappelling, you need to rappel on a single strand blocked at the rappel ring using a knot attached to a locking carabiner. Only rappel on the strand opposite the knot block, while the other strand is used for retrieving the rope.
5. How many types of belay devices are there?
There are three main types of belay devices: active assisted braking, passive assisted braking, and traditional tube devices. Each type has its own characteristics and advantages. Our climbing experts have extensively tested and used all three types of belay devices.
During our climbing belay & rappel equipment research, we found 24 climbing belay & rappel equipment products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 54,524 customer reviews through our big data system to write the climbing belay & rappel equipment list. We found that most customers choose climbing belay & rappel equipment with an average price of $26.41.
The climbing belay & rappel equipment are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of climbing belay & rappel equipment, including PETZL, BG Climbing, BLACK DIAMOND, AOKWIT, RESQT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 135 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Michael Daley is a founder of a climbing club. As a climbing expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including climbing accessories. He loves everything related to climbing and often shares his experience online.