Collection: Equipment - Climbing & Bouldering - Climbing Safety Devices - Descenders

Descender Devices: Choose Based on Alpine Applications

Choose a rappelling device based on your plans and the conditions you’ll encounter on the route. A rappelling device must be compatible with the rope and the intended use. The design and rope diameter affect friction and operation. Not every belay device is intended for the same rappelling applications. Therefore, check the instructions and the permitted connections with carabiners. You should first familiarize yourself with a new device under expert guidance before using it on an alpine route.

Descender: Selection Criteria

• Rope Range: Compare permissible diameters and intended rope types. Take sufficient time to do this when making your selection.
• Application: Check which rappelling functions the manufacturer explicitly permits. Clarify any questions using the specific product information.
• Connection: Select the appropriate carabiner according to the device’s instructions. Take your existing equipment into account when making your comparison.
• Operation: Practice the intended procedure in a supervised environment. Test the handling if possible before first use.

Carefully Select Your Climbing Gear

Select climbing gear based on the specific discipline you plan to practice. Indoor climbing, sport climbing on rock, and alpine routes each have different requirements. Read the instructions for each activity and consider your existing gear when making your selection. Keep important product information on hand. The first time you use a new safety-critical component, do so in a setting supervised by an expert before it becomes part of your regular climbing gear.

Compare rappelling devices based on the features that are important to you. For further planning, you’ll find climbing safety gear here. Explore the selection and get answers to any questions during a consultation at the store.