Hubbry Logo
BelayingBelayingMain
Open search
Belaying
Community hub
Belaying
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Belaying
Belaying
Belaying
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia
A belayer in Red Rocks, Nevada
Part of a series on
Climbing
Lists
Types of rock climbing
Types of mountaineering
Other types
Key actions
Key terms

In climbing and mountaineering, belaying comprises techniques used to create friction within a climbing protection system, particularly on a climbing rope, so that a falling climber does not fall very far.[1] A climbing partner typically applies tension at the other end of the rope whenever the climber is not moving, and removes the tension from the rope whenever the climber needs more rope to continue climbing. The belay is the place where the belayer is anchored, which is typically on the ground, or on ledge (where it is also called a belay station) but may also be a hanging belay where the belayer themself is suspended from an anchor in the rock on a multi-pitch climb.

Description

[edit]

Belaying is a critical part of climbing safety. Correct belaying methods allow a belayer to hold the entire weight of the climber with relatively little force and easily arrest falls.

In its simplest form, a belay consists of a rope that runs from a climber to another person (the belayer) who can stop the climber's fall. In the modern day, most climbers use a variety of gear to belay, notably harnesses and belay devices. Thus, in a typical modern climbing setup, one end of the rope is fixed to the harness of the climber, most often by a figure-eight knot. The rope then passes through some form of climbing protection. Protection may come in the form of fixed protection, such as permanent pitons or bolts, or in the form of removable protection, such as nuts, hexes, and spring-loaded camming devices.

A demonstration of the belay device with rope and carabiner without a proper locking gate

The other end of the rope is attached to the belayer, who remains lower than the climber. The belayer wears a harness to which a belay device is attached. The belay device acts as a friction brake, and allows the belayer to easily vary the amount of friction on the rope by altering the rope's position. In one position, the rope runs freely through the belay device. In another position, it can be held without the rope sliding through the device because of the friction on the rope. This is called "locking off" the rope.

Belay device held in the "locked off" position.

While the rope is locked off, the climber's fall should be arrested and they will be left suspended, but safe, somewhere below the last piece of protection. Generally, the climber will not fall any farther than the length between them and their last piece of protection, plus the length of the rope between them and their last piece of protection, plus the length of any slack in the system and extra length from the stretching of the rope under load. That is, if a climber climbs three feet higher than the last piece of protection in the rock, and then falls, the climber will fall at least six feet in total: three to the protection, and three below that, and then an extra distance for the extra rope. A dynamic rope is usually used so that the climber is not brought to a sudden jarring stop.

After a climber falls, the belayer can gently lower the climber to a safe point where climbing can be resumed. When a climber is finished climbing, belayers can lower climbers to the ground safely.

Belayer responsibilities

[edit]
Leader and belayer climbing in Joshua Tree National Park

The belayer should keep the rope locked off in the belay device whenever the climber is not moving. As the climber moves on the climb, the belayer must make sure that the climber has the right amount of rope by paying out or pulling in excess rope. If the climber falls, they free-fall the distance of the slack or unprotected rope before the friction applied by the belayer starts to slow their descent. Too much slack on the rope increases the distance of a possible fall, but too little slack on the rope may cause the climber to "whip" or swing into the rock at a high velocity, possibly injuring themselves. It is important for the belayer to closely monitor the climber's situation, as the belayer's role is crucial to the climber's safety.

When belaying on overhanging bolted routes, particularly indoors, belayers often stand well back from the rock so that they can watch the climber more easily. However, when belaying a lead climber who is using traditional protection, this can be very dangerous. The belayer should stand near to the bottom of the route in order to decrease the angle of the rope through the first piece of protection. This, in turn, decreases the force pulling it up and out of the rock if the leader falls. Standing too far away from the rock can result in protection unzipping, with the lowest piece being pulled away from the rock, followed by the next, until all of the protection may potentially be pulled out.[2] Standing too far away from the bottom of the climb also means that if the leader falls, the belayer experiences a sudden pull inwards towards the rock and may be pulled off their feet or into the rock.

Communication

[edit]

Communication is also extremely important in belaying. Climbers should wait for verbal confirmation from the belayer that they are ready to begin.

US terminology

[edit]

A climber is said to be "on belay" when they are correctly attached to the rope and the rope is correctly attached to the belayer by an appropriate belay method. Commonly-used commands in US climbing communities are:[3]

"On belay?" Asked by the climber to confirm if the belayer is ready.
"Belay on." Said by the belayer to confirm that the belayer is ready and that the climber is on belay.
"Climbing." Said by the climber to indicate they are starting their climb.
"Climb on." Said by the belayer to acknowledge the climber is starting their climb.
"Off belay." Said by the climber to indicate they are safe, either on the ground or attached to an anchor, and do not need to be on belay.
"Belay off." Said by the belayer to indicate the climber is no longer on belay.
"Take." Said by the climber to tell the belayer to remove the slack from the rope, and warn that the climber is going to put weight on the rope.
"Got you." Said by the belayer to confirm that the slack has been removed from the rope and they are ready for the climber's weight.
"Give me slack."/"Slack." Said by the climber to request more slack (less tension) in the rope.
"Lower me."/"Lower." Said by the climber to indicate that they are finished with their climb and would like the belayer to lower them to the ground.
"Lowering." Said by the belayer to confirm that they will lower the climber.
"Watch me." Said by the climber to request special attention from the belayer and indicate they may fall.
"Falling!" Said by the climber when falling.
"Rock!" Said by anybody when they see a falling rock. It is best practice that everyone in the climbing area repeat this when they hear it.

At times, it may be impossible for climbing partners to hear one another, as in bad weather, by the sea, or near a busy road. Silent belay communication is possible by tugging the rope. These are not standardized and should be communicated between the belayer and the climber prior to the climb. Walkie-talkies can be used in areas where communication is limited.

UK terminology

[edit]

When the climber is tied onto the rope and is ready to climb "Ready to climb"

When the belayer has attached the rope to the belay device and is ready to belay "Climb when ready" (or in recent years, "On belay" or "Belay ready")

When the climber is about to start climbing, "Climbing"

When the belayer is belaying, "OK"

When the slack rope is taken in by the belayer and it becomes tight and therefore the belayer doesn't need to take the rope in any more the climber says "That's me"

During the climb, the climber may ask the belayer for "Slack", or to take in the rope "Take in" (the command "Take in slack" is never used as it could be misinterpreted)

If the climber is about to fall and needs the belayer to know & take in the rope, they may say "Tight" for a tight rope or "Take In" to take the rope in.

When the climber is in a safe position independent of the belay "Safe" or "I'm safe".

When the belayer has taken the climber off the belay "Off belay"

Warning shouts for falling objects, "Rope!"; when throwing a rope off the edge "Rock!"; when a rock has been dislodged and is falling.

Anchoring

[edit]
Lead climber and belayer (in a hanging belay position) on the multi-pitch El Niño 8b (5.13d), El Capitan
Main article: Anchor (climbing)

When top rope belaying for a significantly heavier partner, it is sometimes recommended that the belayer anchor themselves to the ground. The anchor point does not prevent a fall, but prevents the belayer from being pulled upwards during a fall.[4] This is normally not used when lead belaying.[5]

To set up this anchor the belayer should place a piece of directional protection (i.e., a nut or cam) into a crack below their body, or tie themselves by the belay loop to a rock or tree. The anchor arrests any upward force produced during a fall thus preventing the belayer from "taking off". Unlike belays set up at the top of a climb, it is not usually necessary for belayers at the bottom to have more than one point of protection as long as the single piece is sturdy and safe – "bomber" in climber jargon.

Hanging belay

[edit]

During multipitch climbs it is sometimes necessary to belay while sitting in a harness and anchored to the wall. In this case rope management becomes more important, and the anchor is constructed in the traditional manner.[6]

Belay methods

[edit]

Climbers now almost exclusively[citation needed] use a belay device to achieve controllable rope friction. Before the invention of these devices, climbers used other belay methods, which are still useful in emergencies.

The person climbing is said to be on belay when one of these belaying methods is used.

Belay devices

[edit]
Main article: Belay device
A belayer using a belay device.

A belay device is a piece of climbing equipment that improves belay safety for the climber by allowing the belayer to manage his or her duties with minimal physical effort. Belay devices are designed to allow a weak person to easily arrest a climber's fall with maximum control, while avoiding twisting, heating or severely bending the rope.

Self-belay

[edit]
Main article: Self-belay

While the task of belaying is typically assigned to a companion who stays at the bottom, self-belaying is also possible as an advanced technical climbing technique.

Munter hitch / Italian hitch

[edit]
Main article: Munter hitch

A munter hitch is a belaying method that creates a friction brake by tying a special knot around an appropriate carabiner. This type of belay, however, causes the rope to become twisted. It can also be used on double ropes. Simply tie the munter hitch with both ropes as if they were one.

Body belay

[edit]
Body belay during rescue training in Switzerland in 1924

Before the invention of belay devices, belayers could add friction to the rope by wrapping it around their body; friction between rope and the belayer's body was used to arrest a fall. This is known as a body belay, a hip belay, or a waist belay and is still sometimes used when climbing quickly over easier ground. On vertical rock it is no longer used as it is less reliable and more apt to injure the belayer stopping a long fall.[7]

Australian belay

[edit]

The Australian belay is used on many high ropes courses for supporting participants on vertical, as opposed to traversing, elements.[8] The Australian belay allows untrained participants to engage in the safety and support of their fellow participants on an element, and allows a single facilitator to oversee an element with multiple individuals participating. The Australian belay does not use a traditional belay device, but rather ties two or more people into loops on the working end of the rope as a belay team, who walk backward as the participant ascends the element, taking up slack as they go. Additional participants can be tied into the loops or left free to help hold clipped in members of the belay team in place. The Australian belay requires a clear runway back from the element almost double the height of the element in order to allow the belay team to support climbers all the way to the top.

See also

[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Belaying.
Look up belaying in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Belaying

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Belaying is a critical technique employed in , , and related activities, wherein a stationary belayer manages a system to protect a moving climber from falls by creating controlled and tension, thereby arresting the climber's descent and facilitating a safe lower if needed. This process relies on the belayer's constant attention to slack management and the use of specialized devices to ensure the rope remains in a braking position, minimizing the risk of injury during ascents on routes ranging from indoor top-ropes to outdoor multi-pitch leads. The origins of belaying trace back to nautical practices, where ropes were secured to prevent slippage, and were adapted into mountaineering in the early as climbers sought ways to safeguard against lethal falls on steep terrain. Initially, techniques involved direct body belays, wrapping the rope around the belayer's or hips to generate through human resistance, a method that demanded significant and carried risks of to the belayer. Post-World War II advancements, including the introduction of durable ropes and metal carabiners, enabled more reliable ground-based belaying from below, while the 1969 invention of the Sticht plate—a simple metal plate for rope —marked the shift toward mechanical devices that improved consistency and reduced . Subsequent innovations, such as tubular devices like the ATC in the 1970s and assisted-braking mechanisms like the GriGri in the 1990s, further refined the practice by automating partial braking and enhancing safety in diverse scenarios. At its core, belaying encompasses several standardized techniques tailored to the climbing style, with the PBUS method (Pull, Brake, Under, Slide) serving as a foundational approach for top-rope belaying using manual devices: the belayer pulls slack upward as the climber ascends, returns the brake hand to the rope's end, slides the off-hand underneath, and repeats to maintain control. Essential equipment includes a climbing harness for the belayer, a UIAA- or CEN-certified (such as tube-style or assisted-braking models), locking carabiners, and a rated for fall absorption, all of which must undergo rigorous pre-climb checks to verify secure knots like the figure-eight follow-through. In , belaying involves feeding rope through quickdraws clipped by the climber, requiring precise slack adjustment to avoid premature loading on protection while preparing to catch dynamic falls. Safety in belaying demands unwavering adherence to principles like keeping the brake hand on at all times, using verbal commands (e.g., "On belay?" and "Belay on") for clear communication, and employing ground anchors if the belayer is significantly lighter than the climber to prevent being pulled upward. Common risks, such as inadequate slack control or device mishandling, contribute to a small but preventable percentage of accidents, underscoring the need for certified and ongoing practice to foster reliable partnerships between climbers and belayers. Modern variations, including automatic belay devices for , extend accessibility but still emphasize the human elements of focus and equipment verification central to the technique.

Overview

Definition and Purpose

Belaying is the technique by which a stationary belayer secures a moving climber using a , primarily to falls through controlled within the climbing system. This process involves the belayer managing tension to allow the climber's upward progress while ensuring immediate response to any downward movement, thereby providing dynamic . The core purpose of belaying is to prevent or minimize injury from falls by distributing the resulting forces across the , harness, , and anchors, which absorb energy and limit the climber's descent distance. This mechanism is fundamental across roped activities, including , , , and high ropes courses, where it enables participants to navigate challenging terrain with reduced risk. In its basic mechanics, the rope is routed from the climber's harness, through intermediate points or anchors, to the belayer, who uses a friction-based device to control slack payout during ascent and rapid take-in or locking during a fall. The belayer maintains constant brake-hand contact with the rope, leveraging the system's elasticity and to dissipate fall without excessive force on any single component. This setup ensures the belayer can both facilitate smooth and provide reliable arrest, with rope slippage and key to absorption. Belaying contexts vary by scenario, such as top-rope setups where the belayer operates from below with the rope doubled through an overhead for inherent redundancy, lead belaying where the climber clips the rope progressively into while the belayer feeds slack to avoid drag, and multi-pitch applications on extended routes requiring coordinated belays at intermediate stances. In each, the belayer's role adapts to the terrain and fall potential, ensuring aligns with the activity's demands in rock, , or alpine environments.

Historical Development

Belaying techniques originated in the 19th-century European scene, particularly within the tradition of Alpinism in the , where climbers relied on rudimentary methods to protect against falls during ascents of steep terrain. The earliest practices involved hand-over-hand belaying, in which the belayer gripped the rope directly to manage friction and arrest the climber's progress, often using the body's weight and clothing for additional control without specialized equipment. These body-friction techniques emerged as mountaineers pushed boundaries on challenging routes, marking the foundational shift from unroped soloing to partnered protection systems that prioritized safety amid increasing route difficulties. In the early , belaying evolved with the introduction of more structured body belays, such as the hip belay, which gained prominence in as climbers in regions like the Sierra Nevada adopted it for its improved force distribution through the belayer's hips and harness-like waist loops. The post-World War II era saw significant advancements driven by fatal accidents, including the 1957 North Face tragedy, which involved multiple deaths amid severe weather and falls, and highlighted the challenges of rescue and overall safety on extreme routes. This incident, involving a multinational team and the first successful high-altitude rescue on the face, influenced broader safety protocols in . Concurrently, the development of dynamic ropes in the 1950s and formalized in 1964 by manufacturers like Edelrid and Mammut addressed the limitations of static ropes by incorporating stretch to absorb impact forces, reducing injury risk during leader falls. The late 20th century brought mechanical innovations, beginning with Fritz Sticht's invention of the Sticht plate in 1969, the first dedicated friction that clipped to a for controlled handling without relying solely on the body. By the 1970s, the figure-eight follow-through knot, originally developed in 1943 for rappelling, became widely adopted as the standard method due to its reliability, ease of inspection, and strength in . The Union Internationale des Associations d'Alpinisme (UIAA) played a pivotal role in standardization, initiating testing in 1960 and expanding to equipment norms that ensured compatibility and safety across belaying systems. In 1991, introduced the GriGri, the first assisted-braking with a cam mechanism that automatically locks the under load, revolutionizing belaying by enhancing ease and security for both indoor and outdoor climbing. This progression from body-dependent methods to engineered devices reflected a broader commitment to mitigating risks while enabling bolder ascents.

Equipment

Essential Components

Harnesses form the foundational attachment point between the climber and the rope in belaying systems, designed to securely support the body during ascents and arrest falls by distributing forces across the pelvis, thighs, and waist. The most common type for rock climbing is the sit harness, classified as EN 12277 Type C under European standards and compliant with UIAA 105, featuring a waist belt and leg loops that allow freedom of movement while preventing inversion in a fall. In contrast, full-body harnesses (EN 12277 Type A) encircle the torso, shoulders, and legs, providing enhanced stability for activities like caving where awkward body positions and single-rope techniques demand comprehensive support to avoid slippage. All climbing harnesses must meet UIAA 105 and CE/EN 12277 certifications, which mandate strength testing including a minimum 15 kN load on the belay loop to simulate fall forces without failure, ensuring reliability under dynamic loads. Proper fitting is critical, with the waistbelt positioned low on the hips (about two inches below the ) and leg loops snug but not restrictive, to evenly distribute arrest forces and minimize injury risk from concentrated pressure on soft tissues. Belay devices are mechanical tools that create to control during belaying, allowing the belayer to manage slack and arrest falls. Common types include tube-style devices (e.g., ATC), which route through a U-shaped slot for manual braking; plate devices like the Sticht plate; and assisted-braking devices (e.g., GriGri), which use cam mechanisms to lock automatically under load. These must comply with UIAA 129 or EN 15151 standards, ensuring they withstand at least 15 kN in the primary axis and provide consistent across diameters of 8.5–11 mm. Carabiners serve as essential connectors in belaying, linking , harness, and anchors while maintaining system integrity under tension. Non-locking carabiners, typically or D-shaped with straight or bent , offer quick clipping for quickdraws but require careful handling to avoid accidental opening. Locking variants provide added : screw-gate models use a threaded for manual closure, while auto-locking types employ spring or ball-bearing mechanisms that require multiple actions (e.g., twist and pull) to open, reducing user error in high-stakes setups. UIAA 121 and EN 12275 standards require all climbing carabiners to withstand at least 20 kN on the major axis (along the spine), 7 kN on the minor axis, and 7 kN with the gate open, verifying their capacity to hold falls without deformation. Protection gear, used primarily in , consists of devices placed into cracks to capture falls and redirect the rope, thereby limiting fall distance and impact on the . Passive protection, such as nuts (chocks) and hexentrics, relies on wedging action without moving parts; nuts are tapered metal blocks that jam into tapering cracks, while hexes offer curved, hexagonal shapes for broader placements in irregular rock. Active protection includes spring-loaded camming devices (cams or SLCDs), which expand via spring mechanisms to grip parallel-sided cracks through opposing cam lobes that rotate under load for secure hold. These devices, often adjustable across multiple sizes, enable faster placements in varied crack geometries compared to passive options. Other essential components include helmets, which shield the head from falling rocks, ice, or overhead impacts during belayed ascents, meeting UIAA 106 and EN 12492 standards that limit peak force transmission from vertical and lateral impacts to 8 kN and 10 kN, respectively, without penetration. Belaying gloves, padded with reinforced palms, protect hands from friction and abrasion, particularly in cold conditions where they insulate against while maintaining grip for effective management.

Ropes and Knots

In belaying, ropes serve as the primary lifeline for arresting falls, with dynamic ropes being the standard choice due to their ability to elongate under load and absorb energy from a climber's fall. Dynamic ropes stretch approximately 30-40% during a dynamic load, reducing the force transmitted to the climber and belayer, in contrast to static ropes, which exhibit minimal elongation (under 5%) and are unsuitable for fall-arrest scenarios in or top-roping. These ropes typically feature , consisting of a core of parallel strands (the "kern") that provide the primary strength and a braided sheath (the "mantle") that protects from abrasion and UV . Single dynamic ropes, the most common for belaying, have diameters ranging from 9.5 to 11 mm, balancing durability, handling, and weight for versatile use in , trad, and climbing. UIAA standards mandate that dynamic single ropes withstand a minimum of five factor-1.77 falls (using an 80 kg mass dropped from 4.8 m) before failure, though many high-quality ropes achieve 8-12 or more such falls, with ratings up to 40 in extreme cases for specialized models. Standard lengths for belay ropes are 60 m or 70 m, sufficient for most single-pitch routes and allowing full lowering from typical sport climbs; longer 80 m options accommodate extended pitches or multi-pitch descents. Proper care is essential to maintain integrity: ropes should be inspected regularly for sheath damage, such as cuts, abrasions, or , and retired after significant falls or exposure to chemicals. To prevent kinks that can cause uneven wear or snags during belaying, employ coiling methods like the butterfly coil, where the rope is stacked in loose figure-eight loops over the arms and secured without twisting, or the backpack coil for transport, ensuring even stacking to avoid supercoiling. Essential knots in belaying ensure secure attachments and must be tied precisely to maximize . The figure-eight on a bight creates a fixed loop for tying into the harness, formed by folding the rope into a bight, tracing an "8" shape, and passing the end through the loop before dressing flat; it is favored for its inspectability and resistance to slippage under load. The secures the rope to an , tied by wrapping the rope twice around the carabiner and clipping through both loops, allowing quick adjustments while maintaining hold. For joining two ropes in rappels or extensions, the double interlocks two s on each strand, pulled tight to form a secure connection with minimal bulk. A , often used as a stopper or to secure tails, is a simple overhand tied with a doubled strand, ensuring ends cannot slip through devices. Well-tied knots typically retain 60-80% of the rope's tensile strength, with the figure-eight and double fisherman's often at the higher end when properly dressed to distribute loads evenly and prevent jamming during untieing. Dressing involves aligning strands parallel and seating the tightly, which enhances security and reduces weak points; undressed knots can reduce strength further and increase failure risk under dynamic forces.

Roles and Responsibilities

Belayer Duties

The belayer's primary responsibilities commence with the setup of the belay system, ensuring all components are correctly configured for safety. This involves threading through the , such as a tube or assisted-braking model, and securing it to the harness's belay loop using a locking oriented with the gate away from . A figure-eight must be tied at 's free end to prevent accidental pull-through during a fall or lowering. Prior to the climber's ascent, the belayer conducts thorough partner checks, verifying the climber's harness fit, security, device threading, and closure, while also confirming their own setup. Rope management forms the core of the belayer's ongoing duties, requiring precise control to support the climber's movement while minimizing risk. As the climber progresses upward, the belayer pays out slack smoothly using techniques like PBUS (Pull-Brake-Under-Slide), allowing free but controlled ascent without excess that could increase fall distance. Immediately after each move, slack is taken in promptly to eliminate elasticity and maintain minimal between the belayer and climber—typically just enough for comfort, around 1-2 meters in top-rope scenarios—to reduce potential fall impact. The brake hand remains constantly on the in the downward position, never relinquishing control, to ensure immediate responsiveness. Continuous monitoring is essential for the belayer to safeguard the climber throughout the activity. The belayer must watch the climber's hand and foot placements, progress along the route, and any gear interactions, such as clips in , to anticipate needs like additional slack or tension. This vigilance extends to environmental hazards, enabling quick alerts via standard communication cues if issues arise. In critical situations, such as a prolonged hang or injury, the belayer may need to execute an escape from the belay to perform a , transferring the load to an while maintaining control. When a fall occurs, the belayer's response prioritizes rapid arrest to prevent . Upon hearing the "Falling!" command or observing the drop, the belayer pulls the brake strand downward firmly into the device's maximum position, using both hands if necessary to lock the system. To absorb the dynamic forces—generated by the climber's weight, stretch, and —the belayer adopts a stable stance with feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and hips lowered, bracing against potential upward pull without being lifted off the ground. This positioning, combined with the belay device's , ensures the fall is caught effectively while protecting the belayer from .

Climber Responsibilities

The climber plays a in maintaining the and efficiency of the belay system by ensuring proper gear setup, clear communication, and coordinated movements that support the belayer's management. This involves proactive actions to prevent errors that could compromise protection or lead to falls. In gear handling, the climber must tie into the harness using a figure-eight follow-through , which is the standard method for securely attaching the to the belay loop, followed by a to prevent slippage. This ensures the connection can withstand dynamic loads during a fall. In , the climber is responsible for correctly clipping into protection points such as bolts or gear placements, routing the from the brake strand side to the climber's side to avoid back-clipping, which could allow the gate to open under load and unclip the . Similarly, z-clipping—grabbing the from below the previous —must be avoided, as it introduces excessive slack, increases fall distance, and renders the lower protection ineffective; instead, the climber should always draw the from above the last clip using a stable body position. Communication begins with the climber announcing readiness, typically by calling "Climbing!" after confirming the and system setup, prompting the belayer's "Climb on!" response to initiate the ascent. During the climb, the climber calls for "Slack!" when additional is needed for movement or clipping, or "Tension!" to remove all slack ahead of dynamic sections, such as big moves where a fall is imminent, allowing the belayer to provide support without unexpected yanks on the that could disrupt braking. To signal the end of the climb, the climber shouts "Off belay!" once securely anchored at the top, indicating the system can be terminated. For descent, the climber prepares by informing the belayer with "Lower me!" or "Ready to lower!" after weighting the rope correctly—sitting back into the harness with legs extended to align the body parallel to the wall—ensuring a controlled lowering without twisting or swinging. In lead scenarios, the climber removes protection on the way down only after confirming the belayer's readiness, maintaining tension to avoid sudden drops.

Communication

Standard Commands

Standard commands in belaying refer to the verbal protocols used by climbers and belayers to coordinate actions and maintain safety during ascents. These signals ensure clear communication, minimizing the risk of accidents caused by misinterpretation, such as unintended slack in the rope or premature removal from belay. Organizations like the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) have standardized these commands to promote consistency across practices. The core commands in the United States, as outlined by the AMGA, form a structured set of exchanges. They include:
  • On belay?: The climber asks the belayer if they are ready to manage the . The belayer responds with Belay on to confirm readiness.
  • Climbing?: The climber indicates intent to begin ascending. The belayer replies Climb on or Climb to grant permission.
  • Slack: The climber requests additional rope length to facilitate movement.
  • Up rope: The climber signals the belayer to remove slack by taking in .
  • Off belay: The climber announces the end of the belayed section, such as upon reaching an . The belayer confirms with Belay off.
For lowering after a climb, additional commands are used: the climber says Ready to lower, and the belayer responds Lowering while controlling descent. In a typical climb, these commands follow a logical sequence to establish and maintain the belay system. Pre-climb checks begin with the "On belay?" and "Belay on" exchange, followed by "Climbing?" and "Climb on" to initiate ascent. During progress, "Slack" and "Up " calls manage rope tension as needed. The session concludes with "Off belay" and "Belay off," or transitions to lowering commands if applicable. This progression ensures both parties are synchronized at key moments. In noisy environments, such as where wind and tool strikes drown out voices, non-verbal alternatives supplement or replace verbal commands. , like a thumbs-up held overhead to indicate "On belay," allow visual confirmation when partners can see each other. Rope tugs—such as three sharp pulls for "Off belay"—serve as signals when visibility is limited. While these standards provide a baseline, minor regional tweaks exist in phrasing elsewhere.

Regional Variations

Regional variations in belay communication terminology primarily arise from differences in English-speaking climbing communities, with notable distinctions between the and the that can lead to confusion in international settings. In the , standard commands often include the belayer saying "Belay on" to confirm readiness, followed by the climber's "" and the belayer's "Climb on" as acknowledgment; for tension, climbers request "Up " or "Take," while "Slack" is used universally to request more . In contrast, climbers typically use "On belay" from the belayer, prompting the climber's "," with the belayer responding "Climb when ready" or simply ""; requests for tension are phrased as "Up " or "Take in," and "Slack" remains consistent, but lowering confirmation uses "" instead of the "Lowering" or "Belay off." European variations introduce language-specific terms that further complicate mixed-group climbing. For instance, in French-speaking regions, the belayer might query "Prêt?" (ready?), with the climber responding "Vas-y" (go ahead) to start; tension requests use "À sec" (tighten) or "Prends-moi" (take me), and secured status is indicated by "Vaché" (tied in). These non-English commands highlight the need for pre-climb clarification, especially in multilingual areas like the . In , commands align closely with or styles but include adaptations for high ropes courses and adventure settings, where "Take" is commonly used for immediate tension to support resting climbers, and environmental noise may prompt visual signals alongside verbal cues. Efforts toward harmonization are evident in international climbing communities, with growing adoption of hybrid commands in mixed groups—such as combining "On belay/Climb when ready" for clarity—and resources from organizations like the (IFSC) emphasizing consistent safety protocols, though verbal standardization remains informal to accommodate global diversity. Mismatches in terminology pose significant risks, as seen in incidents where assumptions about commands like "Slack" or "" led to unintended lowering or excessive slack, contributing to falls; for example, a climber mistaking a "" for clearance to unclip has resulted in preventable accidents, underscoring the importance of confirming signals before ascent.

Anchoring

Ground Anchors

Ground anchors secure the belayer to the terrain below the climb, providing stability during single-pitch or top-rope belaying by countering forces from falls or weight differences. These anchors utilize natural features like trees or boulders, or artificial such as removable gear, to prevent the belayer from being lifted or displaced. In , they are particularly vital for lead belaying, where an upward pull could otherwise drag the belayer off the ground. Common methods include placing traditional protection like nuts or cams into cracks near the belayer's position. Nuts are passive devices wedged into constrictions, while cams expand actively against rock walls for secure holds; both are connected via slings or cordelette to the belayer's harness. For enhanced strength, multiple pieces form an equalized system, where a cordelette loops through each placement and ties into a master point, distributing load evenly. In snow or soil environments, deadman anchors bury an object like a T-shaped plate or picket horizontally in a trench, with a sling attached to the midpoint emerging vertically to the load direction, compacting snow around it for resistance. Natural anchors, such as slinging around sturdy trees or boulders, or even using another harnessed person as a counterweight, offer simple alternatives when gear placements are unavailable. Setup principles emphasize equalization to handle multi-directional pulls, ensuring no single point bears excessive force—ideally using angles of 60 degrees or less between legs to limit load amplification. Redundancy is critical, with at least two independent points to maintain integrity if one fails, and the system positioned to direct forces downward toward the ground. The anchor should align in an Anchor-Belayer-Climber (ABC) configuration, placing the belayer between the anchor and the route for optimal load vectoring, and connected via the brake-hand side of the harness using slings, PAS devices, or rope hitches like the clove hitch. Ground anchors are essential when the belayer is significantly lighter than the climber, to provide ballast against falls, or in lead scenarios to avoid upward displacement. They are also recommended for belayers or in obstructed terrain where unanchored belaying risks injury. Unlike suspended setups for multi-pitch routes, ground anchors focus on stationary, terrain-based stability. To test security, perform progressive tug tests: apply body weight gradually, then simulate dynamic loads by bouncing, ensuring no movement or slippage. Adjustments account for , such as extending slings around boulders to avoid sharp edges or deepening deadman trenches in loose for better hold. Always verify the full system, including knots and carabiners, before begins.

Hanging Belays

Hanging belays are established in mid-air during multi-pitch or when no natural ledge exists, providing a secure station for the belayer to manage the rope while suspended from protection points. These setups prioritize and load distribution to handle forces from falls or climber weight in exposed environments. The setup begins with building an equalized using bolts, traditional gear, or slings, typically incorporating 3-4 pieces for . For bolted routes, a double-length sling or cordelette is clipped into each bolt, with an tied to form a master point that distributes the load; modern half-inch stainless-steel bolts often do not require precise equalization due to their superior strength. In traditional gear scenarios, cams, nuts, or other placements are connected via an 18-20 foot cordelette, which is girth-hitched to each piece, pulled into equal tension, and secured with a at the master point to create a static equalized system. Slings can supplement or replace gear by encircling natural features like horns or threads for added support. To enhance comfort and simulate a ledge, climbers create foot loops using aiders, cordelette segments, or slings clipped to the , allowing brief standing relief from harness pressure. Rope management is critical for leader changeovers, involving neat stacking or coiling of excess rope to one side of the to prevent tangles when the incoming climber arrives and the next leader departs. Belay positions in hanging setups include the seat belay, where the belayer sits back in their harness suspended from the via a personal or clove hitch for adjustability, and standing positions using foot aiders for improved visibility and reduced fatigue. Load equalization between the and climber is achieved by attaching the directly to the master point or via an extended , ensuring forces from a fall are primarily absorbed by the rather than the belayer's body. Transitions at hanging belays facilitate efficient progression, such as swapping leads where the second clips into the upon arrival, the leader unties from , and the new leader ties in before departing. Lowering from a hanging position involves routing through the attached to the , allowing controlled descent while maintaining brake-hand control. These belays are essential on big walls, like those in Yosemite, or alpine routes where sustained vertical terrain demands repeated mid-air stations. Challenges in hanging belays include exposure to weather elements such as or , which can complicate rope handling and increase slip risk, necessitating sheltered positioning when possible. Fatigue management requires frequent position changes, such as alternating between sitting and standing in foot loops, to maintain circulation and alertness during prolonged hangs. Minimum gear redundancy of 3-4 pieces ensures security against single-point failure in these dynamic, overhead environments.

Belay Techniques

Body Belays

Body belays are traditional friction-based belaying techniques that rely on the belayer's body to create drag and absorb the force of a potential fall, without the use of mechanical devices. These methods distribute impact through the belayer's core and skeletal structure, making them suitable for situations where minimal equipment is available, such as in or emergency scenarios. Developed in the early days of rock and , body belays prioritize the belayer's stance and body positioning to maintain control, though they require the belayer to be securely anchored or braced against to prevent being pulled off balance. The hip belay is one of the most common body belay variations, where the rope is threaded around the belayer's hips to generate . To perform a hip belay, the belayer adopts a stable seated stance with feet braced against a solid feature, such as a or ledge, and legs extended to engage the skeletal structure for support; an should be used if the position feels unstable. The rope is positioned low around the waist, below any pack and over the harness waistbelt, with the climber's strand running between the hip and the supporting ledge to minimize rotation. Feeding rope involves holding it palms up, pulling slack toward the body with the guide hand while keeping the brake hand extended away; in a fall, the brake hand pulls downward to lock the rope, potentially wrapping it over the for additional while maintaining an upright posture. This technique is ideal for top-rope setups or short lead climbs on lower-angled terrain with reduced risk of swings, allowing the leader to place gear or redirect the rope for safety. The shoulder belay offers an alternative for scenarios requiring quicker setup, particularly in mountaineering on ice or snow where steep terrain demands efficient progression. The belayer turns sideways with the shoulder facing the cliff, running the rope from the climber through the hand nearest the cliff, across the back, and over the opposite shoulder to the brake hand; the climber's strand should parallel the leg closest to the edge for stability. Rope is fed using a pull-pinch-slide motion, and locking occurs by pulling the brake hand down while wrapping the rope more securely around the body if needed. This method provides better control on steeper routes by leveraging the shoulder's positioning, though it maintains a higher center of gravity, increasing the risk of the belayer being pulled outward without proper leg alignment. In both and belays, the belayer's body deflection—typically up to 1 foot—helps absorb energy alongside the rope's stretch, reducing peak tensions compared to rigid methods; for example, in resilient body belays, tensions can drop to around 620-720 pounds for a 50-pound climber on a 10-foot or with moderate deflection. However, these techniques place significant force on the belayer, relying primarily on personal strength with minimal assistance, which can exceed body weight in a dynamic catch. Advantages include low equipment requirements and speed for low-risk or gear-scarce situations, but drawbacks involve higher physical demands and the potential for slippage or belayer , leading to their replacement by mechanical devices in most modern applications while retaining utility in emergencies.

Mechanical Devices

Mechanical belay devices enhance friction through hardware design to manage climbing ropes safely during ascent and descent, serving as a modern evolution from body belays by incorporating metal components for greater control. These devices are clipped to the belayer's harness belay loop via a locking and threaded with the rope to create resistance against falls. They are essential for both top-rope and , allowing efficient slack management while prioritizing the climber's safety. Tube-style devices, such as the Black Diamond ATC and Figure 8, feature reversible slots or channels that generate by bending the rope around the device's body. The ATC, weighing approximately 60 grams, is compatible with single or double ropes from 7.7 to 11 mm in diameter and supports both belaying and rappelling modes, where the rope is routed through the slot to increase drag during descent. Similarly, the Figure 8 device, often used primarily for rappelling but adaptable for belaying, creates via its looped , accommodating ropes up to 10.5 mm and enabling smooth lowering through adjustable hand positioning on the brake strand. Both types are certified under UIAA standard 129, ensuring they withstand dynamic forces equivalent to multiple falls without failure. Assisted-braking devices, like the GriGri and Black Diamond Reverso, incorporate a cam mechanism that automatically engages to lock the rope during a sudden load, such as a fall, reducing the belayer's manual effort. The GriGri, at 175 grams, uses a cam and plate to pinch the rope in blocking mode, optimized for single ropes of 8.5 to 11 mm. It can be used in a configuration attached to an for belaying a follower from above, where the cam assists in managing the load during . The Reverso, weighing 57 grams, functions as a tube device in standard mode but shifts to assisted braking via its pivoting cam for multi-pitch or guide scenarios, compatible with single or twin ropes from 7.5 to 11 mm. These devices also hold UIAA 129 , including static strength tests to 10 kN and dynamic performance to arrest falls with a maximum force of 6 kN. As of 2025, UIAA 129 remains the current standard, with ongoing emphasis on anti-panic features in assisted devices to prevent accidental lowering. In usage, mechanical devices follow the PBUS method for top-rope belaying: the belayer pulls slack through with hand while maintaining the brake hand on the rope's free end; transitions to brake position by sweeping the brake hand down; slides it under to secure; and repeats by sliding hand back up. The rope is typically threaded from the climber through and , with the belay loop ensuring even load distribution across the harness. For assisted devices, the cam allows smoother paying out of slack, but the brake hand must remain in position to override the mechanism if needed. Key advantages of mechanical devices include reduced physical effort for prolonged belays and more consistent braking force compared to manual techniques, minimizing and enhancing reliability. Their lightweight design and versatility across rope types make them indispensable for , with certifications guaranteeing performance under extreme conditions.

Specialized Methods

Self-belay techniques enable solo climbers to protect themselves during ascents, typically using ascenders or progress-capture devices on a for route checking or practice without a partner. One common method involves two ascenders on a single , where the climber alternates between devices to advance while maintaining connection to the ; this setup reduces overall weight compared to dual-rope systems but requires straps for and careful management to avoid drag. In lead soloing, a progress-capture with a camming mechanism is clipped to the harness and the , allowing the climber to manually feed slack while ; cache loops on the facilitate smooth progression. These approaches carry significant risks due to the absence of a belayer, including potential abrasion from rock edges, high impact forces near anchors if a fall occurs, and no immediate rescue options if the device fails or a loop forms in the . The , also known as the Italian hitch, serves as a versatile backup belay method tied directly into a single large pear-shaped HMS , providing for controlling the rope without a dedicated device. For belaying a follower, the hitch is attached to a fixed point, with slack fed through one hand while the brake hand maintains control to prevent twisting, particularly effective in icy or snowy conditions where mechanical devices may jam. Lowering involves gradually releasing brake hand tension to allow the hitch to roll and feed rope, enhanced by adding a friction hitch like a prusik on the brake strand for security; the Munter mule overhand variation creates an auto-locking setup for hands-free holding under load. This technique is reversible on a single by adjusting hand positions and proves invaluable when a fails or is dropped, as it requires no additional hardware beyond the . The Australian belay is a seated body belay variation employed in high ropes courses and adventure parks, where multiple participants sit in a circle holding the rope to support a climber on vertical elements. The rope is routed under the legs of each belayer for added stability and friction, with ends tied into a large loop using figure-8 or knots to form a secure triangle configuration that distributes load among the group. This method enhances team coordination and is particularly suited to educational settings, as it allows shared responsibility without mechanical devices, though it demands clear communication to maintain even tension. For belaying a follower from or ground belay station, guide mode on compatible s like the Reverso or ATC Guide enables direct, auto-locking belays from an , ideal for bringing up a second climber efficiently with minimal manual input. For frozen conditions, screw belays involve placing screws at least 12 inches apart—ideally 18 to 24 inches—in solid to form an equalized , with the belay device attached to the master point for secure positioning during climbs.

Safety Considerations

Best Practices

Before commencing a climb, belayers should perform thorough pre-climb checks known as the ABCs: verifying the anchor's adequacy and , ensuring all harness buckles are doubled back and secure, confirming carabiners are locked and properly oriented, and inspecting knots for correct tying and dressing. Partner verification is essential, with each person mutually inspecting the other's harness, tie-in knot, setup, and fit to prevent overlooked errors. When significant weight differentials exist, such as a heavier leader, belayers must prepare for dynamic catches by anticipating higher forces and ensuring the system can absorb impact without failure. Proper belayer positioning minimizes risks during falls. For top-rope belaying, adopt a stance with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent to maintain balance and control rope tension. In lead belaying, position offset from the direct —typically stepping slightly toward —to avoid being pulled off- or struck by the falling climber, while staying close enough to manage slack efficiently. Effective fall catching requires constant brake-hand engagement and proactive techniques to reduce impact. Always maintain the brake strand in the locked position, never releasing it, and use the hop technique—jumping slightly upward as the tautens—to dynamically lengthen the fall and provide a softer catch, particularly beneficial for lighter belayers or low falls. After catching a fall, immediately assess the climber's condition, check the system for damage, and communicate to confirm stability before proceeding. Belay training emphasizes structured education and practical experience to build proficiency. Obtain certification through programs like the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Single Pitch Instructor course, which covers belay fundamentals, , and teaching methods over 27 hours of field training. Practice belaying on easy terrain to master management and responses under controlled conditions, gradually progressing to varied environments such as windy routes where additional communication and wind-resistant stances are necessary to maintain control.

Common Errors

One of the most prevalent issues in belaying is allowing excessive slack in the rope, which can result in longer falls and increased impact forces on the climber, potentially leading to severe injuries. This error often stems from inattention or inadequate monitoring of the climber's progress, particularly during where the belayer must balance providing enough slack for clipping while minimizing loose rope. To correct this, belayers should maintain constant visual contact with the climber and take in slack promptly through efficient hand movements, ensuring the rope remains taut but not restrictive. Poor braking technique, such as prematurely releasing the brake hand from the rope, is another frequent mistake that compromises the belayer's ability to arrest a fall effectively. , , or improper training often cause this, as the brake hand must always maintain downward pressure on the rope in the braking position, regardless of the belay device used. The consequence can be catastrophic, with the rope slipping through the device and failing to catch the falling climber; the solution involves reinforcing the habit of "brake always down" through repeated practice and self-checks during sessions. An improper stance, such as facing away from the wall or standing too far back—especially in lead belaying scenarios with unequal partner weights—can cause the belayer to be pulled off their feet during a fall, exacerbating the accident. This positioning error arises from discomfort, poor site assessment, or habit, leading to instability and potential ground impact for the belayer. Corrections include adopting a centered, athletic stance close to the rock face, with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent to absorb forces, as demonstrated in scenarios where lighter belayers manage heavier leaders. Gear misuse, including cross-threading belay devices, leaving carabiners unclipped, or failing to dress knots properly, frequently results in slippage or system failure under load. These issues commonly occur due to rushed setups or lack of familiarity, such as threading the rope incorrectly through an ATC or allowing twists in the , which reduce friction and holding power. Immediate remedies involve double-checking all connections before begins and using visual aids like knot diagrams during to ensure proper orientation and seating. Belaying errors contribute significantly to climbing accidents, with studies indicating that belay-related incidents account for approximately 12% of all injuries, often among beginners where up to one-third of participants exhibit technique flaws that could lead to harm if uncorrected. According to a 2004 German Alpine Club study, nearly one-third of belayers mishandle their devices, while a 2011 joint report from the Swiss Alpine Club and UIAA found that one in three climbers makes belaying or tying-in errors capable of causing serious injury. A notable involves a 2017 incident in where miscommunication during anchor lowering resulted in a ground fall; the climber called "off belay" prematurely, leading the belayer to remove the rope, causing a fatal 30-foot drop due to assumed shared understanding of the sequence. Such examples underscore the need for clear verbal confirmations, like "on belay" and "climbing," to mitigate risks. Preventive checks, such as pre-climb gear inspections, can help avoid these pitfalls when integrated into routines.

References

  1. https://americanalpineclub.org/news/2020/4/2/belaying
  2. https://headrushtech.com/blog/what-is-belaying
  3. https://wms.org/magazine/magazine/1391/Belay-Devices/default.aspx
  4. https://www.sportrock.com/post/the-ultimate-guide-to-belaying
  5. https://americanalpineclub.org/news/2016/3/15/9ifwyakbvdf826by6gv97y1uzk1mzb
  6. https://www.theuiaa.org/documents/safety/Analysis_of_Belaying_Techniques.pdf
  7. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/belay.html
  8. https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/cope/climb-on-safely/
  9. https://theuiaa.org/documents/members/UIAA_1932_-_1982_-_the_first_50_years.pdf?_t=1695649343
  10. https://www.bigwallgear.com/p/early-engineered-rock-climbing-in
  11. https://www.climbing.com/culture-climbing/eiger-first-rescue-accident-survivor/
  12. https://gripped.com/gear/how-wwii-led-to-the-climbing-ropes-we-use-today/
  13. https://www.cavinguk.co.uk/info/verticalterminologypart-belaydevice
  14. http://www.verticalmuseum.com/VerticalDevicesPage/RappelHistory.php
  15. https://www.theuiaa.org/safety/safety-standards/
  16. https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/News/2015-7-22/The-GRIGRI-belay-device--a-concept-that-forever-changed-climbing
  17. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/climbing-harness.html
  18. https://www.glisshop.co.uk/guides/standards-and-lifespan-of-climbing-and-mountaineering-equipment.html
  19. https://www.canyonzone.com/c-5701610/what-is-the-difference-between-a-climbing-harness-canyoning-harness-caving-harness-seat-harness-hip-harness-and-integral-harness/
  20. https://edelrid.com/040-downloads/Gurtfibel_EN_ANSICHT.pdf
  21. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/belay-devices.html
  22. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/carabiners.html
  23. https://www.mammut.com/us/en/stories-guides/carabiners-for-climbing-everything-you-need-to-know
  24. https://theuiaa.org/documents/safety/Recommendations_Standard_121_BMC.pdf
  25. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/passive-rock-climbing-protection.html
  26. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/place-trad-gear.html
  27. https://blog.weighmyrack.com/understanding-climbing-helmet-certification/
  28. https://mojagear.com/gear-review-what-you-need-to-know-about-belay-gloves/
  29. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ropes.html
  30. https://theuiaa.org/documents/safety/Recommendations_Standard_101_BMC.pdf
  31. https://www.treelinereview.com/gearreviews/best-climbing-ropes
  32. https://www.climbing.com/gear/how-to-care-for-rope/
  33. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/climbing-knots.html
  34. https://www.mountaineers.org/about/vision-leadership/board-of-directors/committees/branch-leadership-committee/outdoor-leadership-committee/resource-center/2017-leadership-conference-materials/nick-block-2017-handout/%40%40download/file/NickBlock_Knots101_2017Handout.pdf
  35. https://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/12196019100/Climbing-Rope-Tests
  36. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/clip-quickdraws.html
  37. https://www.climbing.com/skills/learn-to-climb-clipping-basics-for-sport-climbing/
  38. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/communication-climbing.html
  39. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/belay-lead-climber.html
  40. https://www.scribd.com/document/482858448/Rock-Climbing-The-AMGA-Single-Pitch-Manual-gnv64-pdf
  41. https://www.alpineinstitute.com/climbing-commands/
  42. https://americanalpineclub.org/news/2017/1/19/4xm1fcsag6b7xqf1p1w1qp7vdpp1ha
  43. https://www.vdiffclimbing.com/basic-calls/
  44. https://cjbtrainingandadventure.co.uk/rock-climbing-belaying/
  45. https://www.mountainproject.com/forum/topic/111222112/climbing-words-in-different-languages
  46. https://images.ifsc-climbing.org/ifsc/image/private/t_q_good/prd/ugfyikqetemtjmujhwky.pdf
  47. https://www.alpineteam.co.nz/post/safety-alert-avoiding-common-preventable-climbing-accidents
  48. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/climbing-anchors.html
  49. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/snow-anchors-for-mountaineering.html
  50. https://expeditiontraining.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AMGA-Single-Pitch-Instructor-Program-Handbook-Edition_3_2024.pdf
  51. https://www.mountaineers.org/blog/rock-climbing-anchors-bolted-routes
  52. https://www.climbing.com/skills/how-to-maximize-comfort-at-hanging-belays/
  53. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-rappel.html
  54. http://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/12195037900/Theory-of-Belaying
  55. https://www.alpineinstitute.com/quick-belay-techniques/
  56. https://www.climbing.com/skills/how-to-hip-belay/
  57. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/belay-device.html
  58. https://www.treelinereview.com/gearreviews/best-belay-devices
  59. https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/Belay-Devices-And-Descenders/GRIGRI
  60. https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/product/reverso-belay-device/
  61. https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/climbing/best-belay-device
  62. https://www.theuiaa.org/first-braking-devices-receive-safety-label/
  63. https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/Self-belay--solo-climbing-with-one-or-two-fixed-ropes?ActivityName=Indoor-and-Outdoor-Climbing
  64. https://edelrid.com/us-en/knowledge/knowledge-base/lead-rope-solo
  65. https://www.alpinesavvy.com/blog/learn-to-belay-with-a-munter-hitch
  66. https://store.high5adventure.org/products/2-day-belay-skills-and-climbing-structure-training
  67. https://store.high5adventure.org/products/australian-belay-tethers-large
  68. https://www.vdiffclimbing.com/guide-mode/
  69. https://www.climbing.com/skills/learn-this-bomber-ice-anchors/
  70. https://www.alpineinstitute.com/the-pre-climb-checklist/
  71. https://www.princeton.edu/~oa/climb/belaywal.shtml
  72. https://touchstoneclimbing.com/dynamic-belaying/
  73. https://www.climbing.com/skills/the-art-of-the-soft-catch/
  74. https://www.amga.com/programs/climbing-instructor-programs/single-pitch-instructor-program
  75. https://www.amga.com/programs/mountain-guide-programs/alpine-guide-program
  76. https://www.climbing.com/skills/common-belay-errors-how-to-prevent-them/
  77. https://sports.yahoo.com/50-most-common-climbing-mistakes-165700578.html
  78. https://faclimbing.com/climb-5-common-mistakes-look-correct/
  79. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6981967/
  80. https://www.cwapro.org/blog/report-reduce-injuries-by-understanding-indoor-climbings-biggest-mistakes
  81. http://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/13201214727/Ground-Fall-from-Anchor-Miscommunication
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.