Top Gripped Climbing Gear Picks of 2017
With 2017 being one of the biggest for climbing accomplishments in recent years, it’s no wonder there were so many top products introduced.
Below are some of the stand-out performers from the past 12 months.
Petzl GriGri+: We all love GriGris and the new GriGri+ continues the high standard of design and development as the previous. It’s great for new climbers. Built with anti-panic technology so when the belayer pulls on the handle too hard a brake tugs the rope to a stop so the climber isn’t dropped.
Edelrid Loopo Lite: Called the lightest harness in the world, the Loopo Lite comes in at only 79 grams. Designed for glacier travel and ski mountaineering, the leg loops unlatch which makes taking the harness off with crampons on an easy feat. More here.
Patagonia High Alpine Kit: This all-round alpine climbing package has everything you need. From -40C days in the mountains to sunny and warm conditions on alpine rock. We tested it in the Rockies and Alps and loved the versatility and layering set-up. A must have.
CAMP Dyon: Using their patented KeyWire design (wire gate combined with new keylock closure), CAMP’s dyon has increased gate strength up to 11 KN.
Scarpa Instinct VSR: With a near-perfect balance of durability and performance, this was one of the best performing shoes of the year for friction climbing. The XS Edge excels on granite and sandstone.
For top gym climbing shoes this year see here
Sterling Slim Gym 10.1: This is a simple and trustworthy option for the climbing gym. It’s a perfect size with enough elongation to keep you safe indoors. The Slim Gym has been our top choice this year for pushing plastic grades.
La Sportiva Skwama: Without compromising comfort, the Skwama maintains the top performance of a high-end shoe. They’re easy to get on with the slipper design. The toe is stiff for pulling in but soft for smearing.
Metolius Belay Slave Glove: Belay gloves have become a must-have on many climber’s racks. The Belay Slaves were our favourite of the year. They’re ergonomic, comfortable, affordable, breath well and can take a beating.
The North Face Cinder 40: The new and improved Cinder has a stronger fabric that is more water resistant, more comfortable should straps, is tapered to carry better and has a slicker top-loading design.
La Sportiva Trango Ice Cube GTX: Every few years there will be a new ice/mixed boot that rises above the rest. This year it was the Trango Ice Cube GTX. It’s light and conforms to your foot quicker than some other boots. But it’s performance on rock and ice kept us lacing them up all season.
For top ice/mixed boots for this season see here
Edelrid Ohm: Edelrid launched its assisted-breaking device called the Ohm and they were a must-have overnight. The Ohm helps to level out the weight difference between a climber-belayer team up to double the pounds. Clipped to the first bolt, the resister is installed like a quickdraw. If the climber falls, the device increases rope friction to halt to absorb the impact.
Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet: An upgraded design to the classic Half Dome helmet, Black Diamond premiered a women’s specific version with a ponytail-friendly shell design. It has a one-handed fit adjustment dial, headlamp clips and a low-profile suspension. A great addition to their lineup of legendary helmets.
Arc’teryx Cerium LT: If you’re climbing in cold and dry areas, then this is one layer you don’t want to be without. With 850 fill-power down, the articulated design makes big moves easy. The hood keeps you toasty but is built to give you a big range of vision.
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