Svelte Belay System — Magnets, springs, and a split metal body make up the one-of-a-kind Grip belay device. DMM cites the unit gives “startling” holding power to catch a climber’s fall via its clamping, pivoting form.
We tested it in a trade show booth for a fast demo. “It opens up to lock the rope off and then snaps closed with a spring and magnets to pay out the rope smoothly,” noted our reporter.
The grip works with ropes from 8.6mm to 11mm. Made for cragging and sport climbing, the device is single-rope only, meaning multi-pitch climbing where rappelling and multiple ropes come into play is not the venue.
But for single-pitch climbers wanting a small, refined, and possibly safer device, DMM gives a neat new option with its Grip. For sale next spring at an affordable $49.95.
