With grippy, sandblasted lobes and a narrow head width, the four-lobed Z4s sunk reliably deep in thin fissures and pin scars. But their most epic feature was the new RigidFlex tech, an accordion sheathe that stiffens the stem when retracted to let you bury the unit, but then softens up once placed to reduce walking. Our tester dug the Z4 Offsets for irregular cracks, saying, “I whipped repeatedly on the .3/.4. It took a beating, but showed little wear and was easy to clean. Highly recommend the Offset Z4s for aid and alpine adventures with flaring granite cracks.” MSRP: $70 each (0–.75 or .1/.2–.5/.75)

Available at:

• rei.com: standard | offset
• amazon.com: standard | offset
• blackdiamondequipment.com: standard | offset
• moosejaw.com: standard | offset
• backcountry.com: standard

See more 2020 Gear Guide reviews:

• Editors' Choice Awards
• Bouldering Kit
• Sport Climbing Kit
• Alpine Climbing Kit
• Gym and Training Kit
• Multi-pitch and Trad Climbing Kit
• Basecamp Kit