Top 10 Climbing Quickdraws

This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in December of 2018. Along with a rope and climbing shoes, quickdraws are one of the fundamental pieces of equipment that every climber needs. They connect the rope to bolts or protection in the wall, preventing injury in the event of a fall. It's worth being choosy with your draws — they may save your life. Our list includes specialized picks for sport and trad climbers as well as versatile all-around performers. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. If you'd like to contribute your own research to Ezvid Wiki, please get started by reviewing this introductory video.

Editor's Notes

October 20, 2020:

We've updated this list to include a more comprehensive set of quickdraws that suit various types of climbers. Sport climbers will gravitate to fully featured models with solid gates, like the Petzl Spirit Express or DMM Alpha Sport. Trad climbers will be better served by lightweight quickdraws like the Black Diamond Miniwire or the extendable Trango Phase Alpine. If you're just venturing into the world of outdoor climbing, look for value and versatility in options like the Black Diamond HotForge Hybrid or Camp Orbit Wire Express. While you're at it, you'll probably need a rope and a good harness. Regardless of your objectives or experience level, climbing is dangerous — make sure you understand the risks, and how to use your equipment safely. Climb on!

December 23, 2018:

There are many variations in strength and length of these, but the most important feature is the gates. Wire gates are more lightweight, but can be taxing on the fingers, and keylock versions are easier to remove. However, many experienced climbers prefer to use double wiregate versions because of their versatility, especially in cold weather. Ease of use is important because you don't want to dawdle while teetering a hundred feet in the air.

Last updated on October 22, 2020 by Willis Kuelthau

Born in Boulder, Colorado, Willis began his writing career in third grade with a short story about a cat detective. After graduating from Williams College, he earned his editorial stripes at a magazine in Maine before making the leap into the world of freelance writing. He wrote for a variety of industries in Philadelphia and Rhode Island, until the New England winters sent him scurrying for sunnier skies. Now a resident of Los Angeles, he can frequently be found flailing away on a tennis court, dangling from a cliff face, or playing with his cats. Areas of expertise include fitness, nutrition, sports and outdoors, and automotive.

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The 10 Best Climbing Quickdraws

1. Petzl Spirit Express

2. Black Diamond HotForge Hybrid

3. Petzl Djinn Axess

4. Camp Orbit Wire Express

5. DMM Alpha Sport

6. Petzl Ange Finesse

7. Edelrid Bulletproof

8. Mad Rock Concorde

9. Trango Phase Alpine

10. Black Diamond Miniwire

Editor's Notes

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