Gear : Reviews
Reviews by MichaelCohen (7)
Defy Climbing Shoe - Mens (Manufacturer link)
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Average Rating : 3.94/5
In: Gear: Shoes: Climbing Shoes: Velcro
The Defy
Review by: MichaelCohen, 2009-03-17
I owned a pair of Defys for a while before a hole was made in the front from intense climbing. I upgraded to the pontas. If you're a beginner, get these. They are amazing for the money. Very comfy! However, if you are an experienced climber, spring for the Pontas or Anasazi Velcro. Both those shoes are just the Defy but with better edging, more downturn, and more control in general.
William Screwgate Carabiner (Manufacturer link)
Average Rating : 4.57/5
In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Carabiners: Locking Carabiners
Petzl Carabiner
Review by: MichaelCohen, 2009-03-17
It is a pretty average carabiner. I ten to lean towards the Black Diamond Quicksilver carabiners because of the colorful look and somewhat smaller size. If you need a carabiner as soon as possible, go for it. Otherwise, look around a bit and see if you can find anything else that catches your eye. Definitely not a bad carabiner though. It does what it's supposed to.
Element Figure 8 Belay Device (Manufacturer link)
Average Rating : 2.50/5
In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Belay Devices & Descenders
The Figure 8
Review by: MichaelCohen, 2009-03-17
Honestly, I feel almost as if the firgure eight is unnecessary. You can rappel with an ATC, something that the figure eight makes only a little easier. Plus, belaying with the figure eight is not so great.
Oval Carabiner (Manufacturer link)
Average Rating : 3.82/5
In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Carabiners: Non-Locking Carabiners: Ovals
Oval!
Review by: MichaelCohen, 2009-03-17
No matter what you're doing, you always need some extra ovals. These are cheap, strong, durable, you name it.
Grigri Belay Device (Manufacturer link)
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Average Rating : 4.24/5
In: Gear: Essential Equipment: Belay Devices & Descenders
The GriGri
Review by: MichaelCohen, 2009-03-17
While the GriGri may be a little hard to master, once it is done it is incredible. I lead climb with somone much heavier than I am, so the auto-locking mechanism saves me from being ripped the extra foot into the air when I am belaying. On top of this, because I don't have to worry as much about locking off, I can pull in more slack, making my partner's fall shorter. Despite what people say, lead belaying with a GriGri is actually pretty easy. Just make sure you know how to use this tool before going off and belaying somone on it
