Review: Petzl Climbing Gear

Selena Harness
As a climbing rookie, having a comfortable, easy-to-move-in harness is non-negotiable. That's why I chose the Selena Harness from Petzl. It hugs my waist securely without impeding my freedom of movement, and the waistbelt padding helps the harness to sit comfortably on my hips regardless of whether I’m climbing, belaying, or lowering. The elastic leg straps keep me comfortable and secure, and the harness doesn’t slide up and down my waist without the threat of chafing. I have plenty of space to store all of my gear right on my person with a total of five gear loops for everything from carabiners to a chalk bag to my Grigri. And as if all of that weren’t enough, the Selana harness is made from 100% recycled polyester. I know it has both my back and the planet’s. Available at petzl.com; $95.

Borea Helmet
When it comes to safety, there’s nothing more important than protecting your noggin. And when it comes to outdoor climbing— which inevitably puts me in the fall zone of other climbers, gear, or rocks—I want to know my dome is covered. The Borea Helmet from Petzl gives me that peace of mind, and I can rest easy knowing it’s designed to provide top, side, front, and rear protection. With an EPS foam liner and an easily adjustable headband—that even has a special notch to accommodate my ponytail—I can comfortably wear this thing all day. Hell, I’ll even sport it while chomping down on lunch. With a hard outer shell built for protection and durability, I know I’ll be using this helmet for years to come, and if I ever branch out to caving or canyoneering, it’ll come right along with me. Available at petzl.com; $75.

Grigri 
The Grigri from Petzl makes belaying easy with an assistant braking function that catches your partner if they fall, and a camming mechanism that provides exceptional control when lowering. Lightweight and constructed from aluminum side plates with a sturdy, stainless-steel cam, this Grigri is a no-brainer. Available at petzl.com; $100.

Sm’D Carabiner
Whether I’m using it to attach my chalk bag to my harness or securing a Grigri to belay my buddy, the Sm’D Carabiner from Petzl is a natural, foolproof choice. With a carefully designed keylock system, I never have to worry about snagging anything on this carabiner or it popping open mid-climb. Available at petzl.com; $24.