Secured climbing routes or via ferratas offer exceptional experiences in the mountain world, but only when using appropriate and safe equipment. The central part of this equipment is the self-belay kit, which is crucial for your safety. You may be wondering which kit to choose and what to look out for. In this article, we will present everything you need to know.

Why is a specialized self-protection kit necessary?

First of all, it should be emphasized: any certified self-belay kit is significantly better and safer than improvised solutions, such as using a simple rope or auxiliary lines with carabiners. The reason lies in the physics of falls. Falls on belay routes can be very powerful due to the fixed steel cable and the length between belays. The fall factor can be much higher than in classic climbing, which means that extremely large forces act on the body.

Therefore , a good system for absorbing the force of a fall is essential . This system (absorber) tears in the event of a fall, gradually reducing the force to a level that the human body can withstand without serious injury. Without it, a fall could be fatal, even if you are strapped in.

Safety and standards

Don't worry, all self-restraint kits available on the market are safe and strictly controlled . They must comply with the safety standard EN 958:2017. This standard ensures that the kit is tested for users in a wide weight range (usually between 40 and 120 kg) and that the energy absorber will function properly in the event of a fall.

Key components of a self-rescue kit

Every modern self-protection kit consists of the following parts:

• Belt attachment loop: This is the central loop that you use to attach the kit to your climbing harness using a knot (usually a "pig's-eye").
• Shock absorber: The heart of the kit, hidden in the bag. In the event of a fall, it breaks and absorbs the energy.
• Loops (arm): Two elastic or fixed loops that connect the absorber to the carabiners. Elastic loops are more practical because they shrink as you walk and do not get in the way.
• Swivel joint: Many modern kits have a built-in joint that prevents the two loops from tangling and crossing, making it much easier to use.
• Carabiners: Two large, ergonomically designed carabiners with an automatic locking system. They should allow for easy and quick attachment to the cable with one hand.
• Rest loop attachment system: Most kits have a short loop sewn onto the absorber that allows you to attach a third carabiner (not included in the kit) for resting in a place where you can hang safely.

The most important factors when choosing

When making a purchase decision, consider the following factors that most affect the user experience:

1. Price: The range is wide, but even cheaper models from renowned brands provide full safety.
2. Carabiners: Try them out in the store. It's important that they fit nicely in your hand and that you can open and close them easily. The differences in ergonomics between models are significant.
3. Weight: Lighter sets are more comfortable on longer tours.
4. Size of the absorption system: Newer models have smaller and more compact absorbers that are less disruptive during use.
5. Anti-tangle swivel: This accessory greatly increases comfort, as your loops will not constantly get tangled. Recommended especially for those who will be visiting via ferratas more often.

Buying recommendations

If you rarely go on via ferratas and price is a significant constraint , then models such as the Rock Empire DynaGo or Rock Empire Siga are a great choice.

Rock Empire DynaGo self-belay set

Rock Empire Siga self-belay set

They are affordable, yet offer everything you need for a safe experience, including comfortable carabiners and elastic loops.

However, if you really enjoy via ferratas, will be on the trails more often, and want the most comfortable experience possible , then consider higher-end models. Models like the Edelrid Cable Comfort offer exceptional carabiner ergonomics, an integrated anti-tangle joint, and are made of lighter materials.

Edelrid Cable Comfort Tri self-belay set

Edelrid Cable Kit