Choose Your Belay Device: Understanding the GRIGRI Family

Belaying is active risk management. Petzl’s decades of refinement in producing cam-assisted blocking belay devices positions the GRIGRI, GRIGRI +, and NEOX at the top of the market. Not all GRIGRIs are the same and choosing the right device for your day can help improve performance, experience, and efficiency. The GRIGRI Family is not just a collection of three devices, it is a spectrum of experiences.

What is a Cam-assisted Blocking Belay Device, and why does it matter?

A cam-assisted blocking belay device helps support rope control when the system is under load. Encouraging better slack management, dynamic catches, and smoother lowering, all three devices in the GRIGRI Family help belayers more accurately and efficiently manage movement, tension, and timing. 

GRIGRI

There is a reason the GRIGRI is everywhere. 

For decades, it has set the benchmark for belay devices, striking a balance between control, versatility, and simplicity. Whether you’re in the gym or at the crag, it delivers a smooth, predictable experience across both lead and top-rope belaying. 

The spring-loaded camming mechanism helps to restrict the rope from passing through the device while you hold down the brake strand and the ergonomic handle assists in providing a controlled, fluid descent. 

Compact, lightweight, and compatible with single ropes from 8.5 to 11 mm, the GRIGRI adapts to a wide variety of climbing. A well-rounded option for everyday use. 

GRIGRI +

Every climber has to starts somewhere. The GRIGRI + is designed to make that starting point feel intuitive. 

Similar to the GRIGRI, its cam-assisted blocking design helps you manage slack and maintain control of the rope. What sets it apart from the standard GRIGRI is the anti-panic handle, which promotes a backed up lowering experience by stopping the descent if the handle is unexpectedly pulled down too far. It’s a subtle feature, but one that builds better habits from day one. 

For top-rope sessions, you can switch the GRIGRI + into ASSIST + mode to increase cam engagement, helping to restrict the slack you just took in from re-entering back into the system. 

Compatible with single ropes from 8.5 to 11 mm, the GRIGRI + is ideal for new climbers, instructors, or those looking for a guided belay experience. 

NEOX

When every second counts, your belay device should move as fast as you do. 

The NEOX is designed for fluid rope payout when lead belaying, thanks to its integrated wheel that helps the rope smoothly pass through the device. But as a part of the GRIGRI family, equipped with a spring-loaded cam, the NEOX still helps to restrict the rope from passing through when you pull on the brake strand. 

Compatible with single ropes from 8.5 to 11 mm, the NEOX introduces a new level of responsiveness that experienced climbers will immediately notice and is built for those who want their belay system to keep up with the pace of modern climbing. 

Less friction. More flow. 

Side By Side

Belaying is more than a task, it's a craft shaped by feel, timing, and trust in your system. The difference isn't just in the device, it's in how it feels in your hands. With the GRIGRI, GRIGRI +, and NEOX, you can choose the type of assistance that fits your style. 

Explore the range, dial in your setup, and climb with a system that works the way you do