New and Notable: Edelrid Jul - 2010 Gear Guide

The German company Edelrid recently released a single-rope sport belay device that, in addition to offering a mean catch, taps into something beyond the numerology of rope diameters and ounces — the Jul, as it’s called, has sex appeal. Yes, it’s light (2.1oz), and it handles ropes from 8.9 to 10.5mm, but the first reaction the Jul elicits is more visceral than cerebral: you just want one. Made from a single piece of wear- and corrosion-resistant stainless steel and coated with a seamless, nylon skin that comes in a plethora of bright colors, the Jul is hot.

1. CATCHY
   The Jul’s slightly asymmetrical body shape allows for two friction modes, both of which are highly sensitive, locking off the rope with the slightest flick of a the wrist.
2. KEEPIN’ IT COOL
   For those times where you have to lower your climber from the top of a 120-foot monster route, the Jul’s sleek, stainless-steel body dissipates heat rapidly, staying relatively cool — plus, the nylon coating insulates your hands from any heat that does accumulate.
3. EXTRA STRENGTH
   The clip-in loop has been pull tested to 7kN. Just a little extra peace of mind and perhaps an indicator that function and form are not mutually exclusive.

$16.95, edelridna.com
Weight: 2.1oz
Rope diameters handled: 8.9-10.5mm
Certifications: UIAA, CE

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