Peak Mountaineering

I like Edelrid equipment.  It is always well made and innovative.  The Edelrid Nineteen G carabiner is certainly innovative and is definitely beautifully made.  I mean, this is a full strength carabiner weighing 19 grams!  That is innovative.  I don't know of a lighter one.  I have used the Nineteen G’s a lot and, having got used to the small size, I like them a lot.  Infact, I like them enough to select them as our 22nd Peak Mountaineering Top Gear choice.go to full review

You've probably guessed it - I really like everything about the new Sirocco.  Petzl have continued to evolve their innovative product range and with this new version I really can't think what I would change to make it any better - I'm afraid my Meteor will be largely resigned to the gear cupboard from now on. In reviewing a product like this I have no way to say how well it would cope in an impact, but it has obviously been tested to meet all relevant standards and I am confident it will..." go to full review

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best and the Magic Sling is a good example of that adage.  To be clear, there is a lot of technology incorporated into this fabric loop, but in essence using multiple loops of Dyneema fibres encased in a tough sheath is a simple enough idea.  Mammut have managed to create a product that does its job well whilst also having added the added safety elements of increased knot strength and a long lasting sheath.  Bravo Mammut.go to full review

The Ultralights may not be quite as long lasting as the standard models depending on how rough you are with your gear, but for fast and light ascents I am sure a lot of people will be happy with that.  They are also more expensive, but again you might feel that is a price worth paying.  I certainly guarantee you won't be disappointed if you do choose them - they are light on your harness, light in your hand, have a great expansion range per piece and have what, as mentioned above, l reckon..." go to full review

So there is lots to think about and the Serenity would never be my choice for climbing on rough gritstone or certain other high friction rock types. I also wouldn't bother choosing it when a short walk in means I don't need the pack ability or weight saving they offer. However, when faced with a heavy pack, a full on mountain day or a long walk in, the Serenity is worth every penny and the Serenity is currently my first choice for both personal and professional use on long multi-..." go to full review

So, the new Meteor is definitely an improvement but many of the changes are fairly small or cosmetic tweaks. So, my conclusion would be that it probably isn't worth immediately paying out for a new one until you are due to replace it. Having said that, when you do swap you'll be very pleasantly surprised with the new model. Well done (again!) Petzl...." go to full review

The Tracer is an excellent helmet. Comfortable, simple, lightweight and effective. The instructions rate it for rock climbing, ice climbing and mountaineering. I prefer a hard shell for ice climbing but that’s a matter of personal choice. I am certainly confident it will excel for rock climbing, mountaineering and ski mountaineering. Even better, it’s so comfortable maybe more climbers will be tempted to wear one!go to full review

Finally, I usually carry a couple of smaller D shaped screwgates for all the other times I need a completely secure clip. Often this is to clip into placements in my belay anchor. For these types of task I prefer something light, strong and fairly compact like the DMM Shadow (guess which ones they are in the photo!). Not so small it can’t be handled easily…but still small enough to be light. Details are again on the DMM site and can be found here.go to full review

Recently, I have been loving the Petzl Attache 3D (the gold coloured carabiner in the picture) which is very light (55 grams) and also has Petzl’s Keylock system which essentially means it has a very smooth nose allowing ropes or belay plates to slide in smoothly without getting caught up. The Attache also features Petzl’s ‘Red Lock’ indicator system which gives a clear visual guide to whether the gate is screwed up or not. Full details on the Attache can be found on the Petzl site here...." go to full review

The only disadvantage of this type of helmet is durability. A very lightweight shell covering a polystyrene dome means the Meteor is prone to damage if packed carelessly or, of course, if it is struck by an object. Infact, helmets of this type intentionally absorb impact partly by deforming and so they are more of a one hit design than some other types on the market. For this reason I don't personally wear this type of helmet for activities like ice climbing where being clunked by..." go to full review