If you happen to have been on the look for the best climbing pulley on the market and have been stumped on finding the right one for you due to the insane amount of options there are, then you certainly aren’t alone. However, on this lovely day, or is it night? Whatever it happens to be for you, we are going to be presenting the best rock climbing pulleys in all of the world. These pulleys found on today’s list are recommended not only by the professionals in the industry but by the always growing community.
We will be picking our overall favorite which not only exceeded our expectations in quality but has a great price as well. Additionally, we will also have 2 runner ups which hit it home just as much as our overall favorite, as well as 2 final value picks that are aimed at climbers needing a little cheaper option that’s quality doesn’t drain with the price. With all that said, by the end of this article, you’ll have met your perfect match in the climbing pulley category, that’s a guarantee!
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Favorite for the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Our Favorite for the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Petzl Micro Traxion
Let’s begin with the most fantastic rock climbing pulley we have ever laid our eyes upon, the Petzl Micro Traxion. Being packed with excellent efficiency, all thanks to its sealed ball bearings which will last a very long period of time. Being made of aluminum alloy as well as stainless steel makes this pulley a top pick. You can also expect a great compact design that’s sure to be lightweight only being just around 4 ounces. Petzl Micro Traxion is a name to remember for many reasons beyond what we have just mentioned, being rated among the highest climbing pulleys on the entire online market.
What Makes Petzl Micro Traxion Unique:
- This pulley has a lot of benefits and design that has been put into it and it really shows. Not only is this pulley our favorite, but it might just be the greatest pulley created in all of the universe. If you happen to love very specific descriptions of climbing pulleys… then hey we got you covered!
- Here is an excerpt from Amazon detailing the Petzl Micro Traxion, “Ultra-light and ultra-compact progress capture pulley (volume and weight 50 % smaller than the MINI TRAXION). Cam can be locked in open position so device can be used as a simple pulley. Works even on frozen or muddy ropes. For use on ropes between 8 and 11 mm in diameter. Weight: 85 g. Working load: 2,5 kN x 2 = 5 kN. Breaking strength: 7.5 kN x 2 = 15 kN. Working load as progress capture pulley: 2.5 kN. Breaking strength as progress capture pulley: 4 kN. Certification(s): CE EN 567, UIAA.“
Why Choose Petzl Micro Traxion:
- Petzl Micro Traxion is a pulley that is continuously loved and supported by a very large number of members in the climbing community, from Google to Amazon. While it is our number one pick, it’s many others number one as well, “A pulley is essential for alpine and trad climbing, and glacier travel. This is one of the most versatile. It is compact and lightweight. It’s pricey but well worth the cost. I’ve used it for crevasse rescue, where it works well on wet and icy ropes. It is conceivable that severe icing conditions could interfere with the cam, but I’ve not encountered that problem, and I’ve had the pulley packed with snow from the rope.”
- More is better, so let’s take a look at this continued review, “No issues. The design of the pulley frame would tend a prusik, in the unlikely event that were to become necessary. I’ve frequently used it as an ascender. It is also useful for self-belay on top rope, in conjunction with a backup device such as a Petzl Microcender; Petzl has instructions on their web site describing how to rig the Micro Traxion for self-belay. I never leave the ground without a Micro Traxion and a Tibloc on my harness.“
- Ultra-light and ultra-compact progress capture pulley (volume and weight 50 % smaller than the MINI TRAXION)
- Excellent efficiency, thanks to sealed ball bearings (91 %)
- Cam can be locked in open position so device can be used as a simple pulley. Works even on frozen or muddy ropes
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Runner Ups for the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Our Runner Ups for the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Black Diamond Pulley
Being a tenth of a pound, the Black Diamond Pulley is so sleek and efficient that it was only obvious to place this as our number one runner up. It’s biggest selling points happen to be thanks to its intuitive design as it’s self-lubricated and is made of aluminum alloy, which just so happens to be the favorite material for climbing accessory companies to make their products of.
These always happen to be in stock as well as being able to ship the day you purchase it no matter where you find it online. The Black Diamond Pulley is a great overall product and is one we believe even runs the race with our overall favorite pick.
What Makes Black Diamond Pulley Unique:
- Black Diamond always sells its products with some type of deal or perk included such as getting 15% off the first purchase you make on any of their products. The Black Diamond Pulley is no exception and you will likely be very happy to find a great deal to get you this even greater pulley.
Why Choose Black Diamond Pulley:
- The Black Diamond Pulley is highly rated and an exceptional and quality pulley that is excellent for climbing but isn’t limited to it by any stretch of the imagination, as evident by a plethora of recent reviews, “If all goes well, I’ll upgrade from “Big Ups” to “Love It” after installation. The Black Diamond Pulleys I ordered are intended to help the Northern Virginia Model Railroaders make our semifores function again. We recently refurbished them, replacing all wood components, refinishing the metals, and replacing the lenses. The semifores were used to control train movement at the Vienna, VA Washington, and Old Dominion train station. Once we figure out the best way to install them we’ll be “Happy Railroaders!”
- An efficient Pulley for hauling, Rescue and glacier travel
- Self-lubricating
- Aluminum alloy
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Climbing RollnLock Pulley
Our second runner up happens to be the RollnLock Pulley that is simply designed for self-rescue situations, rope climbing maneuvers, and of course work. Its orange base color gives this recommended climbing pulley a look that is unmatched among the rest of the pulleys. It’s not only a product recommended by a ton of professional climbers but by us as well, so check it out.
What Makes Climbing RollnLock Pulley Unique:
- This RollnLock Pulley is such a refined and very specific pulley that can really suit climbers who are either beginners or advanced ones. Here is a deeper look into what this product contains, “For use with ropes EN 892 / EN 1891 Ø 8 ÷ 13 mm; spring-operated cam for use as a rope ascender (fig. 1); sliding lock for use as a pulley (fig. 2); it allows the hauling of light loads (fig. 3); exceptional use with webbing 10÷16 mm, for positioning adjustment (fig. 4); developed to work also on wet or dirty ropes.”
Why Choose Climbing RollnLock Pulley:
- Honestly, basing our picks on the way these recommended rock climbing pulleys are viewed by the general public is actually a high priority of ours simply because it’s great to know people love a product just as much as you, “I was skeptical at first but love this pulley, it’s extremely versatile. I use it as an ascender and bought 2 so I can set them up as a Z-rig (3:1) rescue system without the need for prusiks. I have also used it as a normal pulley as you can lock it into normal pulley mode. It seems really well made and is pretty light so you can carry it with you. I also use this as a lanyard adjust instead of a prusik knot.”
- Furthermore, here is another shorter review to give you an additional perspective on this product, “I weigh 240 lbs and this thing didn’t have any issues keeping me safe! Amazing for its size and price. I ordered another because of its versatility! I would recommend this to anyone who climbs!”
- For Use With Ropes End 892 / End 1891 Ø 8 ÷ 13 Mm
- Spring Operated Cam For Use As A Rope Ascender
- Sliding Lock For Use As A Pulley
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Value Picks for the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Our Value Picks for the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Geelife Climbing Pulley
Being made of aluminum and having an overall weight of 8.8 oz, the Geelife Climbing Pulley is a pulley that’s packed with so much value that its breaking strength is even 30 kN which should be more than satisfactory for the majority of climbers out there. Priced affordably, this pulley is one that’s loved by the community and might even take the top spot one of these days.
What Makes Geelife Climbing Pulley Unique:
- You’re not only getting a product backed by us, but a pulley that’s more than certified and compatible with almost anything you could need to use it for, “Our pulleys meet CE certification for safety so you can rest assured you will be safe for any application. Compatible with wide range of ropes up to 16mm (5/8″). Multiple anchors for complex rescue/hauling system setup.”
Why Choose Geelife Climbing Pulley:
- This pulley actually has more variety and different uses than the rest of the fantastic rock climbing pulleys we are talking about today. Just by taking a look at the reviews, you’ll understand how loved the Geelife Climbing Pulley is, “I purchased this for use around a ropes course to have on hand for mechanical assist, and redirecting lift and belay lines. I was looking for an affordable pulley with a reasonably large diameter, low rolling resistance, and a good price point.“
- Additionally, here is even more customer feedback for this pulley, “The pulley seems well constructed with no more play than in similar product sold by more recognized brands. It turns freely with no sticking points. Because it accepts fairly large diameter rope, it will not mind prussic for some of our thinner climbing ropes, but that is expected because it is designed for larger ropes used in rescue. It came exactly as advertised and functions well.”
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Petzl Rescue Pulley
Coming with a 3-year warranty for FREE, the Petzl Rescue Pulley not only happens to be our final pick of the day – but it is a great overall deal and quality pulley that we cannot recommend this more! You can find this pulley for a very affordable price if you happen to look hard enough. But more importantly, this pulley will add a whole other level of safety to any climb you embark on with it present.
What Makes Petzl Rescue Pulley Unique:
- Petzl Rescue Pulley is very highly rated, and always has new improvements and different varieties of the product throughout the years. An example of their customer satisfaction comes from their reviews, for example, take a look at this, “Price is extremely good, quality up there as Petzl, DMM… and I own those brands. Not only do I use them as slack tenders, but they make excellent tension pulleys, and grouped correctly, a makeshift block and tackle. I used them grouped two by two, to yank up a very large beam to hold up my basement rafters, after torrential rains brought down main basement wall.”
- And, on the flip side – here is a smaller review from a different perspective for Petzl Rescue Pulley, “I’m using this pulley in conjunction with a rope brake in a slacklining pulley system. Small size is great and allows the pulley to sit between the rope reeved through the double pulleys. Solid construction, really smooth, and very efficient.”
Why Choose Petzl Rescue Pulley:
- The Petzl Rescue Pulley is not only a very light device, but it is also so very functional for a large array of different uses, “Strong, light, and efficient, the Petzl Rescue Pulley is ideal for everything from crevasse rescue to big-wall load hauling. The large rope-bearing surface, sealed ball bearings, and an attachment point that accepts up to three carabiners make the Rescue a functional workhorse built for the long haul.“
- Ultra-strong pulley with swinging side plates. Designed to maneuver heavy loads or for intensive use.
- Large diameter sheave mounted on sealed ball bearings for excellent efficiency
- Accepts up to three carabiners to facilitate rope maneuvers
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Why You Should Invest in Quality Rock Climbing Pulleys
It’s pretty obvious, climbing with any high-quality brand of rock climbing pulley is a no brainer and is something that’s only gotten more mainstream as the years go by. It not only continues to add safety to thousands of climbers, but is basically a life hack for climbing – who would be crazy enough to not want that?! When the time comes that you are looking for your very own pulley, just ensure to think about your budget and how long you need the pulley to last. Depending on the cheaper price, it might seem like it’s saving you a couple of bucks here and there, but typically the more affordable they are the shorter the longevity.
By buying a climbing pulley you are not only supporting the companies that make them but you are helping keep this lively climbing community alive. Every little bit counts, and besides, having a climbing pulley is going to make you the top dog in your climbing circle.
How to Choose the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys for You
Safety
The whole purpose of buying a climbing pulley has to be the benefits it hands over to you whether or not it helps you break, or just adds comfort to having more tools up your arsenal. This has to be the main thing that will help many people be able to choose quality climbing pulleys. We find it important to read the product description as well as the materials and overall every aspect about it. This establishes a connection between you and the climbing pulley that will allow you to know exactly what you are getting yourself into – so make sure to keep this in mind!
Longevity
One of the second things we think you should consider is quite simple yet very valuable to remember to look out for, that being longevity – how long you expect the climbing pulley to last. As with most things in life, they don’t last forever or even that many years when you think about it. However, most of these pulleys on today’s list are made of thick and expensive metal materials designed to last for a good amount of time and be able to withstand the harsh environments climbers can be in.
Price
Price, one of the most standard aspects that will be able to help you choose the right pulley as well as the rest of your purchases. We are positive you can agree that price is a major factor on whether or not you’re actually going to buy the product. Most of the time, the higher the price the better the product, and that couldn’t be more true with these rock climbing pulleys. Price also contributes to how long you think you’re going to need the product to last. Just remember that you are paying for the material of the pulley, as well as the design intuition.
Design
Last but not least, you need to also account for the overall design of the product which ties back in with the safety part. As well as making sure how comfortable and well the product suits your needs. This not only saves you money on future purchases but makes the overall climbing experience more enjoyable. Based on its materials you’ll be able to equate how well it was designed and the strength of the product. In short, the design of a climbing pulley is always something to look for. Not all pulleys are designed the same, so don’t be fooled by any lesser ones out there.
Summary of the Best Rock Climbing Pulleys
Here’s a table of what rock climbing pulleys we evaluated:
Last update: 2024-10-13 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
After today’s long list of the best rock climbing pulleys out there, the Petzl Micro Traxion wholeheartedly has to be our overall favorite pair of rock climbing pulleys. It works for every skill level imaginable and provides a solid experience. The pulley’s fantastic design and very visually appealing look makes it one of a kind. These recommended rock climbing pulleys we have talked about today honestly happen to offer a large amount of space which will ensure you’re the climber with the best fit and overall most comfortable and affordable pulley out there.
Let’s move on to the secondary winner aka the clear cut top dog of the runner ups title is handed to Black Diamond Pulley. Due to professionally made materials, it’s easily applicable and can be shared with your climbing friends or anyone for that particular matter. It can single-handedly be put through the beater and still survive and be in a very durable and strong condition. The Black Diamond Pulley really does compete with the prior favorite, but overall is not as loved and well known as the Petzl Micro Traxion.
Thirdly, the last title of value picks belongs to the Geelife Climbing Pulley. Being a value pick, expecting great prices and longevity is a given. With this product’s unique name as well as perks, it adds a huge aspect to the title of value picks. It’s even designed to withstand the harshest environments imaginable- even if you go out climbing every single day of the week for many hours. You’re getting a little bit of everything with this very unique climbing pulley which obviously promises a huge amount of value that’s sure to last you many years, just for a one-time price. Overall, the Geelife Climbing Pulley will stay in our minds for a very long time – as we hope it will with you.
If there’s one aspect to take away from today, it would be that there is some type of rock climbing pulley for everyone out there, and there continues to be new ones made each year by climbing companies. We hope that today we have assisted you in narrowing down the perfect rock climbing pulleys for you and have helped explain what makes each and every rock climbing pulley unique to its own right. Now, wait no longer, head out and enjoy your purchase of whichever climbing pulley you’ve found as your own!
Enjoyed this article? Then, check out our selection of climbing gear reviews here.
> Best Belay Gloves for Climbing
> Best Quickdraws for Climbing
