Top rope belay with grigri The design of the handled camming mechanism enables exceptional descent control. Jun 19, 2023 · Here’s what I think: The standard GriGri is the best fit for most climbers. But before learning about each method, let’s A description of the proper method of toprope belaying, and a discussion of some of other important considerations in toprope belay. Reply “lowering”. Dec 5, 2024 · The Petzl GriGri+ is the best active assisted-braking belay device for newer climbers and feels very familiar to anybody who has used a GriGri before. The anchor, which is a technical climbing term for a secure attachment of the rope to the rock, usually at the top of the route. Many climbing gyms will ask to see your belay certification or do a test before you are allowed to belay. Lead tests require 2 participants. So this way, in case the climber were to take a fall all you need to do as the belayer is pull down. The climber, who doesn’t need to think about belaying … just climbs! The rope that connects the climber to the belayer. Top-Rope & Lead Belay Modes: As anyone who’s ever used a GriGri to belay a leader on a fat rope will attest to, it can be a pain in the ass to quickly feed slack. Even people who have safely used the GriGri since last century have occasionally gone into “GriGri Lock”, grabbing the cam open in a surprise fall. All testing is done with a brake-strand back up by staff. This is nice because with the GriGri, the only time I'm really worried about a new climber making a mistake is during lowering. A lesser problem but still annoying, the rope creeps through the GriGri when belaying from above if not held tight. This cam-assisted blocking belay device (200 g) includes an anti-panic handle and a dedicated top-rope learning mode via a lockable selector knob, making it safer and easier to take up slack while coaching or learning. Especially if the leader quickly jerks the rope when clipping. The device can be used with a wide range of rope diameters, from 8. It’s more affordable, lighter in weight, and does an exceptional job at both top-rope and lead belaying. Follow these step by step instructions on how to belay with a GriGri, including giving slack quickly. Slide the free end of the rope so that it’s now on top of the beveled lip of the Grigri. Lead climbing tests will be done on a climb 5. See full list on sendedition. ATC: Which Device is Best for You? Top Rope Climbing and Belaying Lead Climbing and Belaying Multi-Pitch Climbing and Belaying Rappelling Beginner vs. In these situations if the grigri cannot be repositioned it is better to use a redirected belay from the harness. We’ll be talking about the proper grigri technique to use to keep you and your climbing partner safe. May 5, 2025 · A belay device is essential for catching falls anytime you're climbing on a rope. Feb 16, 2017 · Another improvement is the ability to switch between top-rope belay and lead climbing belay. In top rope belay, this device stiffens the brake so it bites the rope better when your climber is taking. Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. It performs equally well in the mountains as at your local roadside Aug 5, 2025 · See our guide to the best climbing belay devices of 2025, including our top picks and details on belaying with two ropes, rope diameters, belaying a follower, and more. Jan 7, 2019 · Amazon. If I tie myself in and tie backup knots would this be a safe enough setup? 3 Methods Of Belaying From Above There are 3 methods of belaying from the top. Also how does the shape of the carabiner affect things and which orientation should it have? I. In lead belay, the Grigri + works very similarly to the previous Grigri models. com In this article, we’ll discuss how to use a grigri for top rope belaying, lead belaying, and a few other uses. Apr 27, 2021 · We bought and field tested 6 of the best belay devices in 2025 from top brands like Petzl and Black Diamond. The GriGri features an ergonomic handle for exceptional descent control. Happy viewing. Two usage modes to choose from, depending on need: top-rope belay or lead belay. Jan 16, 2020 · Lowering with a Grigri: A Semi-Automatic Belay Device Assisted breaking Reduces the chances of a fatal drop but NOT foolproof Wait for your “climber” to communicate with you that they’re ready to lower. The extra safety that Grigri provides wh Designed for lead and top rope climbing, GRIGRI is the gold standard for belay devices. Test the belay device for proper function. This could be due to lowering a heavy partner, skinny rope, slippery rope sheath, wet/icy rope, cold hands, gloves, or some combination of the above. 5mm How to use: To load the GriGri for a solo it is extremely important that you load the rope using the climber logo connected to the anchor at the top and the hand logo is the free slack . Both are intended to make the GriGri + even safer and easier to use than older models. Grab the black lever and pull it back gently with your left hand which Grigri top rope solo Hey r/climbing, I'm trying to practice a route that I want to free solo (nothing crazy but long) and I'm considering buying a grigri so that I could setup a top rope and belay myself for practice. Get the edge of assisted belaying with the feature-rich Petzl GRIGRI®+. Complete Guide to Top Rope Belaying - Tips & Common mistakes. Oct 4, 2024 · A GriGri needs a well stacked rope to feed smoothly, so organise the rope before the leader sets off, particularly on hanging belays—a long hanging rope makes feeding the rope very tricky. The Petzl Grigri, a popular assisted-braking belay device, further enhances safety and efficiency in top roping. With an anti-panic handle that makes it particularly suited for learning, the GRIGRI + is a cam-assisted blocking device for top rope or lead climbing in the gym or outside. Are you taking a belay test soon and wondering how to pass your belay certification? Learning how to belay is an important skill for any climber. Top-rope belaying with the GRIGRI anchored to the Hands-free position with GRIGRI, GRIGRI + and Technical information Technical notice Download the PDF : technical-notice-GRIGRI-3 - 3. It offers several features that many will see as improvements over the standard GriGri, including an anti-panic handle and two different modes for top-rope and lead belaying. . And that locks the belay device preventing rope from feeding in the opposite direction. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. Jul 29, 2024 · In fact, even if you’ve only ever known the “new way” of Grigri belaying, the Neox takes rope handling up a notch thanks to its rapid feeding and butter-smooth catches. E. Nonetheless, there is an alternate technique, presented here. Compact And Lightweight, Is Used With GRIGRI + is a belay device with assisted blocking and an anti-panic handle. This guide explores the intricacies of top roping with a Grigri, covering equipment, setup, techniques, safety considerations, and troubleshooting. A Grigri (styled as GriGri or GRIGRI) is an assisted braking belay device manufactured by Petzl designed to help secure rock-climbing, rappelling, and rope-acrobatic activities. Dec 22, 2022 · The Petzl GriGri Belay Device Key Specs of the Grigri Variations of the Grigri Pros and Cons of the Grigri Grigri vs. This makes it easier to take up and play out slack while belaying a climber on lead. The top-rope mode The GriGri + is a belay device best suited for very new climbers belaying on top rope. Direct belay – this is the recommended method by climbing schools today Redirected belay – this is the method used for many years and is still common today Indirect belay These 3 methods differ in how the belay devices are being set up and how the belaying is done. The belayer does not climb while belaying. One crafty way to do this is to redirect the brake strand through a second locking carabiner clipped to your belay loop This class will teach you how to tie into the rope as a climber, top rope belay using a GriGri, use climbing commands and perform checks to minimize risk while climbing. Advanced Climbers Gym vs. It feeds slack with ease, securely catches lead falls, and securely auto-blocks when belaying a follower from above on multi-pitch routes. Characterized by its cam-assisted blocking system, the GRIGRI offers an unmatched level of comfort when belaying. In the gym or at the crag, it makes belaying easier with cam-assisted blocking. Outdoor Climbing Ice and Mixed Climbing Final Thoughts This technique should be used only for top-rope belaying, as the belayer is anchored to the ground: dynamic belaying is therefore limited. One of the top rope belaying devices for experienced climbers, the Petzl GriGri belay device utilizes cam assisted blocking, so the rope tightens making the cam pivot to pinch the rope if the climber falls. When I got the hang of taking in rope with my right hand I asked my partner to climb down while on top rope, so I could practice giving out rope. Jun 23, 2024 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Includes belaying, lowering, a 3 to 1 pulley system for belay assists, rope Note that the use of incorrect belay technique is the primary risk factor in an accident, especially when the belayer is surprised by a fall. If you rock climb with a rope, you need a belay device. But with so many available, how do you decide which one is right for you? This article breaks down the most common types of belay devices, the best belay devices for different disciplines of climbing, and, of course, when to choose a Grigri over an ATC (and vice versa). Dave Fasulo (Author of the Falcon Self Rescue book) recommends using a grigri for this reason. It’s the ideal belay device for top rope climbing with a specific mode that makes it easier to take up slack. 25 MB Designed for lead and top rope climbing, GRIGRI is the gold standard for belay devices. And, for new belayers struggling with the Grigri’s strict auto-locking mechanics, the Neox is a much friendlier option. The GriGri Plus comes with a learning curve and its anti-panic function doesn’t mix well with thick gym ropes, so therefore is not something I would recommend. com : PETZL GRIGRI Belay Device - Belay Device with Cam-Assisted Blocking for Sport, Trad, and Top-Rope Climbing - Gray : Sports & OutdoorsAssicuratore With Assisted Braking For All Single Rope Diameters From 8. The top-rope belay mode and the anti-panic handle make for a more comfortable belay, making the GRIGRI I like to belay top rope with a GriGri - what is the best carabiner design for this setup? Is a Petzl Attaché screw-lock ok? I also have a Camp Orbit 2 auto lock. I learned it by first belaying top rope. Apr 28, 2025 · Here are some tips and the best method for giving a good toprope belay, whether you’re using a tube device like an ATC or a brake-assisted belay device like the grigri. Here are our in-depth reviews. But which one is the best? Belay devices come in three different categories — tube-style, auto-blocking devices, and assisted braking devices — and our expert climbing testers have put in hundreds of hours belaying and testing all three kinds. Since the inception of the original Grigri 1, the Grigri has continued to set the standard for belay devices with cam-assisted blocking (braking). 2024 Climb Guide Harnesses, Ropes, Pro, Pads, Shoes & More Explore With assisted braking for improved belaying comfort both in the gym and at the crag, the light and compact the Petzl GRIGRI belay device can be used with 8. The top-rope belay mode and anti-panic handle make for a more comfortable belay, making the GriGri + particularly Sep 19, 2023 · GRIGRI: The most recognized belay device in climbing. The reduction handle offers exceptional descent control with two usage modes to choose from depending on whether you're doing a top-rope or lead belay. You will also find examples of belaying errors to avoid. This class will teach you how to tie into the rope as a climber, top rope belay using a GriGri, use climbing commands and perform checks to minimize risk while climbing. Designed for all climbers and suitable for learning belayers, the Petzl GRIGRI + belay device offers assisted braking with an anti-panic handle and a special mode for comfortable top-rope belays. Jan 3, 2024 · Belaying from a belay station is pretty easy with the GriGri, and the technique is almost similar to belaying a top rope climber, except they are coming from below you. Choose Your Belay Device for Climbing or Mountaineering Petzl makes different belay devices for different disciplines: belay devices with cam-assisted blocking provide a comfortable belay experience, and manual belay/rappel devices allow the user to rappel on two rope strands. Direct Connection to Belay Loop The new features of the GriGri + are 1. Jul 25, 2023 · An Overview of the Petzl Grigri The Grigri is an assisted braking belay device designed for climbing inside or outdoors. Reliable blocking engages automatically under load, while the 3:1 ergonomic lowering handle gives smooth The New Petzl GRIGRI + is an assisted braking device designed for indoor and outdoor climbers for all single rope diameters. How to Belay with a Grigri is one of the most important skills you should learn for climbing, even top-rope climbing. , the Petzl attaché has a pear shape -- which end should face my harness and why? I am left handed myself and taught myself to use the grigri righthanded. It's an ideal device for belaying both leaders and top-ropers, either sport or The Grigri is an assisted braking belay device. AMGA Certified Rock Instructor Erik Kramer-Webb shares his top tips on top-belaying with a GriGri. 9 or harder, our Mar 17, 2022 · The basics behind the Petzl GriGri, one of climbing's most popular belay devices. On the other hand, it enables good descent control and allows the belayer to use the standard belay technique. How does it work? How is the rope inserted? How do brake hand and guide hand work together for taking up or paying out rope? What failures should Feb 16, 2025 · Fix the Grigri in an upright position using a chest harness (does not bear any load; can be improvised with a 120cm sling and gear carabiner). How to pass a belay certification? You can pass … Jul 22, 2015 · The GRIGRI belay device: a concept that forever changed climbing In 1991, Petzl offered climbers an all-new belay device, the GRIGRI. 00:00 Introduction 01:18 Preparation 07:11 Belaying 13:52 Most Common Mistakes Camera & Assistance Ana bergamaschi, Charlie Farrow Aug 13, 2024 · The initial feeling of belaying both on lead and top-rope climbing with the Edelrid Pinch was similar to a GRIGRI, outside of a few advantageous differences. Optimized for lead climbing and top roping, its timeless design makes it lightweight, compact, and versatile. VIDEO - Specific left-handed technique Most left-handed people hold the brake side of the rope with the right hand, belaying like a right-handed person with the GRIGRI; this technique is the most ergonomic. The cam-assisted blocking function makes belaying more convenient when a climber is working a route or when catching a fall. the ability to select different modes for top rope belaying versus lead climb belaying and 2. Abundant features for a better belay. The selector knob allows the user to choose between two belay modes: top-rope or lead climbing. The Petzl GriGri is an assisted-braking belay device. the anti-panic handle. Attach 1-2 maillons to the tie-in loop and thread the rope from the backpack downward, then upward through the maillons before the Grigri (see photo). 5-11mm dynamic single rope diameters. With the G+ that can be mitigated. With its assisted-braking system, providing more confidence and comfort to both belayer and climber, the device quickly revealed itself to be ideal for leading, for working crux moves, for lowering, and for top May 14, 2024 · The GRIGRI is great for belaying both lead and top rope, and with its anti-panic handle, the GRIGRI+ is optimal for top rope and learning. Grigri Is An Insurer With Assisted Braking System, Designed To Facilitate The Insurance Operations In The Gym And At The Crag. Dec 5, 2024 · The Petzl GriGri is an active assisted-braking device that performs well in every belaying and lowering task, earning our highest honor as the best belay device on the market. Mar 13, 2024 · PETZL GRIGRI Belay Device - Belay Device with Cam-Assisted Blocking for Sport, Trad, and Top-Rope Climbing Visit the PETZL Store The most unique feature has to be a new switch on the side that allows you to switch from top rope belaying to lead belaying. Dec 30, 2019 · When top rope belaying with a Grigri or similar auto locking belay device, you may find you need extra friction when lowering. For some, that’s a worthy expense to replace their GRIGRI devices. If you recognize yourself in any of these illustrations of incorrect technique, adopt the technique presented at the beginning of this paragraph. 5 To 11 Mm. Then asked my partner to lead an easy route for which I new the clipping moments. Dec 15, 2021 · In situations where you would like to minimize rope stretch when top rope belaying, you might choose to belay from above. Video: Belaying with a GRIGRI See our video Belaying with a GRIGRI: We present the belay technique recommended by Petzl (for the climb and the lowering). The result is a comprehensive comparison-tested review, and some You must first be Top Rope Belay Certified at Sportrock with the style of device you wish to use, either a "Tube Style Device" (such as the ATC, Reverso, etc) or an Assisted Braking Device (such as the Grigri, MegaJul, ATC Pilot, etc). By belaying from above, you halve the length of rope between the climber and the belayer when compared with a standard top rope belay, therefore halving the potential rope stretch. At $150, the NEOX tacks on an extra $40 to the GRIGRI, which is basically what you’re paying for a snag-free slack-paying experience. Using a grigri as your belay device greatly simplifies a number of self-rescue scenarios. It functions just like a GriGri, but it has a panic handle.