They have been around long enough now that it is safe to say they are not just a fad. A simple solution to a mild irritation. Not for everyone and not always that useful but firmly established now and a regular sight at the crag and the wall.

The price was always a bit of a sticking point but with a steady supply and a firm foothold now they have gotten much more affordable. If you have somehow gotten this far complaining about a sore neck without being recommended a pair of belay glasses, have a read of Bertie's review!

Bertie has recently got his partner psyched for routing and has taken every belay opportunity to give the whole range of newest devices a fair trial. From what he has told me, and written here, the Edelrid Jul2 is his favourite. There might be more belay device reviews to follow but I think we've found his go to!

Belay devices are a minefield. Considering the intended use remains pretty unchanged they come in a plethora of different shapes and sizes and they aren't cheap. You would be forgiven for scratching your head and sticking to what you know. Hopefully, Bertie can help to lift some scepticism and show you how this relatively cheap and simple device can replace your classic tube plate! I just wish he'd fiddled with his camera settings a little more before snapping the how-to pics.