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Hey everyone! As a fellow trad climber, I know that keeping our gear organized is half the battle (the other half is not accidentally wearing your harness as a fashion statement!). Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on what I believe are the best gear slings for trad climbing. After countless days spent dangling from questionable belays and trying to untangle my web of carabiners, I’ve narrowed it down to three top contenders. I’ll also toss in a little buyer’s guide to help you decide what will fit your climbing style. Let’s get into it!
Here are my top picks for gear slings that will keep your rack as organized as your chaotic climbing brain can manage:
- Metolius Multi-Loop Gear Sling
- CAMP Hub Gear Sling
- DMM Gear Sling
Metolius Multi-Loop Gear Sling
I’ve always thought that gear slings were a bit like potato chips; you can’t have just one! Or maybe that’s harnesses… Anyway, when I got the Metolius Multi-Loop Gear Sling, my climbing world suddenly felt more organized, and it was almost like having a personal assistant on crag days—sans the caffeine obsession.
First impression? This gear sling feels like a custom-made dress—it fits just right. I was initially worried it might look like I’d raided a spaghetti monster’s lair, but nope! The slings are adjustable and comfortably spread the weight, so I didn’t end up looking like I was caught in a yarn explosion.
In a universe of tangled gear, the Multi-Loop lets you channel your inner librarian. It has several loops to separate your nuts from your cams and even that single random biner you don’t know why you carry but feel oddly attached to. My rack has never been happier—or more organized.
Here’s what stood out for me:
- Weight distribution: Even and comfy. It’s like the Robin Hood of gear slings, evenly distributing the load amongst the shoulders.
- Harness compatibility: It doesn’t clash. I wear it with my beloved harness, and they’re like chips and guac—made for each other.
- Aesthetic: I feel like the James Bond of climbers—if Bond carried hexes and cams, that is!
The convenience of looping my gear separately brought about some serious efficiency. No more fumbling around like a squirrel in fall! And you wouldn’t believe how many “Hey, nice sling!” comments I get on the crags… If slings could blush, this one would need sunscreen.
One tiny downside? If you’re aiming for ultra-minimalism, you might find the loops on the bulkier side. But given how much time it saves me at belay stations, I’m ready to forgive and forget.
So, fellow vertical enthusiasts, if you find your gear pile looking like a toddler’s toy dump, give the Metolius Multi-Loop Gear Sling a swing! It’s turned my climbing days into a gourmet organization feast—and that’s not just the chalk dust talking!
CAMP Hub Gear Sling
All right, folks, gather ’round and let’s chat about the CAMP Hub Gear Sling. Strap in, because we’re going on a gear-slinging adventure!
I recently got my hands—or rather, my shoulder—on the CAMP Hub Gear Sling, and let me tell you, it’s more than just your average piece of climbing gear. After all, any gear that can double as both a climbing essential and an emergency donut transportation device is an automatic win in my book!
First Impressions: When I first saw the Hub Gear Sling, I thought, “Hey, not bad, it’s like a seat belt for my gear!” It’s sleek, lightweight, and honestly, who doesn’t appreciate a pop of color while dangling from a precipice?
- Comfort: Slipping it over my shoulder felt like a gentle, slightly risky hug. It’s adjustable and surprisingly comfy, even during longer climbs. Granted, if you stuff it full like a piñata, you might start feeling those biners dig in a bit. In which case, maybe bring less—or consider shoulder pads!
- Utility: This sling is like the multitool of gear slings. It’s designed well enough to keep my gear organized and easy to access, which is essential when you’re halfway up a wall and realize you’re not as Spiderman as you’d hoped.
- Features: Here’s where it gets fancy—there’s a unique hub mechanism that rotates. Yes, it rotates! It adds a little extra swing to your style (and gear). Yeah, I may have spun it a few too many times when I should have been belaying.
Real-life Use: I took this bad boy out on a multi-pitch the other weekend, and it performed like a champ. My partner even commented on how quickly I could access and stow my gear, so clearly, it makes me look more professional than I feel. Plus, no more awkward tangle-dances when trying to grab that elusive quickdraw.
To wrap it up, the CAMP Hub Gear Sling is a fantastic addition to my gear arsenal. If you’re looking to upgrade your equipment with something functional and a bit fancy, give this sling a whirl—literally! Just remember to keep those snacks within easy reach, because nobody climbs well on an empty stomach.
Happy climbing, and may your gear always be easy to reach and never tangled!
DMM Gear Sling
Alright, folks, gather ’round! I finally got my hands (and shoulders) on the much-talked-about DMM Gear Sling. Let me just say, it’s like the little black dress of the climbing world—simple, sleek, and oh-so-functional.
So, I ventured out to my usual crag, ready to test this baby out. You know that exhilarating moment when you get an upgrade in gear, and suddenly, you feel like Alex Honnold? Yep, that was me. Minus the talent, of course!
First Impressions: Unpacking it, the sling felt solid and well-made, like something I wouldn’t mind entrusting my life to in a climbing emergency. It’s durable yet surprisingly lightweight, so no worries about feeling like a pack mule.
Performance: I have to say, climbing with the DMM Gear Sling was like having your own climbing assistant. Here are a few things I noticed:
- Comfort: With its ergonomic design, it fit snugly across my shoulder without digging in. It’s adjustable too, so it can handle my “let’s have another slice” days.
- Organization: My gear has never been so organized. Even my super OCD climbing buddy was impressed. It keeps everything right where you need it, when you need it.
- Accessibility: It makes gear swapping easy-peasy. Halfway up the wall, I actually managed to swap cams without losing my nerve. A personal win!
Funny Moment: A little chuckle for you all—I made the rookie mistake of using it in a skewed position, and ended up looking like a wannabe pirate, with gear dangling haphazardly. Fashion cues aside, it was a wild ride but a quick adjustment brought me back to climbing reality!
In all seriousness, the DMM Gear Sling is now a staple in my climbing routine. If you’re still on the fence, just do it. Trust me, your shoulders and your climbing partner will thank you. And if you do pick one up, let me know your thoughts. We can start a fan club or something!
Best Gear Slings for Trad Climbing Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to trad climbing, having the right gear sling can be the difference between a smooth day at the crag and an epic battle with a tangled mess of cams, wires, and slings. Trust me, I’ve been there. Picture me hanging off a sketchy belay, wrestling with gear that seems to have formed its own union against me. Not fun. So, let’s dive into what makes a great gear sling and some of my top picks from personal escapades in the vertical world.
Comfort is King (or Queen!)
When you’re spending hours hanging around—literally—the last thing you need is a sling that’s digging into your shoulders like your Aunt Edna’s pokey hugs. Look for slings with padded straps. Brands like Black Diamond and Metolius have some comfy options that feel like the climbing equivalent of a hammock for your shoulders.
The Tarzan Test
You’re not just hanging lightweight quickdraws on these bad boys. Think cams, maybe those shiny new nuts, and who knows what else you feel is necessary when embracing the spirit of adventure. Look for slings marked with a higher strength rating. After all, we want to be climbers, not kamikaze pilots!
Adjustability — Because One Size Rarely Fits All
Ever tried on a one-size-fits-all poncho? Yeah, it’s not chic. A good gear sling should have adjustable straps so you can tweak it to fit just right, whether you’re wearing a t-shirt or bundled up like the Michelin Man. Petzl’s gear slings, for example, offer great adjustability that caters to both summer cliffs and winter peaks.
Pockets? Yes, Please!
Remember those times when you wondered what on earth you did with your belay device or those extra carabiners? A sling with built-in loops and pockets saves you from that existential crisis. I’ve found that Mountain Hardwear gives you that extra storage space without skimping on style or comfort. Now if only they came with a built-in espresso machine…
The Go-to Classics
Here are a couple of slings that have earned a permanent spot in my gear pack:
- Black Diamond 12mm Dynex Runner – Simple, effective, and tough as nails. It’s my version of the little black dress—goes with everything.
- Petzl CARITOOL – Not technically a sling, but a wonderful little accessory that turns any harness into a gear-sling beast.
- Metolius Safe Tech Gear Sling – Beefy with a built-in storage pouch. It’s more of a gear sherpa than a sling.
In closing, finding your perfect gear sling is a personal journey, much like finding your ideal climbing partner. You want something reliable, sturdy, and, if possible, something that won’t judge you for talking to your gear when nobody else is around. Happy shopping, and may the trad force be with you!
Hey climbing crew! 🎒 So, here’s a thought: has anyone ever tried combining their gear sling with some everyday essentials to make them even more versatile? I mean, imagine a world where your gear sling also holds snacks or a hydration pack—you’d be more like a climbing superhero than just a rock ninja! Can’t climb on an empty stomach, right? 😋
- Snack Attack: I’ve been known to stash a pack of trail mix or an energy bar into the extra loops—fueling up mid-route like a pro.
- Hydration Station: If you’re feeling adventurous, ever rigged a small hydration pack for those longer climbs? Just imagine sipping water hands-free. Ah, the dream. 🍶
- Music Moves: For those chill climbs, why not string your earbuds through the loops, making sure you keep the good vibes rolling as you ascend?
Plus, let’s not forget the all-important camouflage feature—gear slings that match your outdoor wardrobe add an extra layer of stealth. Just kidding! But seriously, turning your sling into a multipurpose climbing accessory could change the whole game. Any other DIY sling hacks out there? Let’s hear how you make your climbing as fun and functional as possible!
Climb on, and may your snacks never crumble at the crux! 🚀
Alright, gear aficionados, let’s talk about style and swagger while scaling those epic heights! 🎒 Ever thought about how your gear sling can be a personality statement? Let’s accessorize those climbs and add a dash of fun:
- Color Coordination: Matching your gear sling with the rest of your climbing outfit: is it necessary? Nope. Is it awesome? Absolutely. Embrace the fashion-forward approach to rock climbing! 🌈
- Custom Charms: Consider attaching small, personalized charms to your sling. Maybe something that reminds you of your favorite route or a mini mascot for luck. Just make sure they don’t weigh you down—no one wants to explain why there’s a tiny troll doll plummeting mid-pitch.
- Name That Sling: Give your trusty gear sling a name! Whether it’s “Betty the Belayer” or “Clipmaster Joe,” it helps to bring a little more life to your climb. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter at the crag. 🐢
- DIY Chalk Bag Hook: Ever thought about adding a quick draw from your gear sling to hold your chalk bag? It’s like your own climbing butler, ready to powder up those fingertips to perfection. 👐
- Photo Op Ready: Slap a couple of stickers or embroider a patch on your sling for all those “climbing action shot” opportunities. You’ll look like the extreme sports superstar you truly are! 📸
Remember, as we dangle from dizzying heights and grapple with gravity’s insistence, adding a touch of humor and flair makes every climb just a tad cooler. Happy climbing and stay stylish, amigos! 🧗♀️✨
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