Climbing manufacturers release new toys every year, and we sift through what's new, exciting, and truly game-changing. Sometimes, the latest toys are simple refinements; other times, they redefine what's possible and transform how climbers operate in the vertical world. As 2025 arrived, we've explored the innovative gear designed to elevate your adventures. From cutting-edge (pun intended) rope protection systems to lightweight tents, these upcoming products promise to enhance performance, safety, and the overall climbing experience. In this article, we'll dive into the most anticipated climbing gear hitting the market in 2025 and explore what makes them game-changers for climbers of all levels.
I. Ohmega by Edelrid - A “Belay Assistant” (ETA Summer 2025)
The Ohmega attaches to the first quickdraw and has a spring-loaded cam and a pulley. The pulley reduces friction when the rope isn't loaded, but when the rope is loaded, the cam activates and adds friction.
The Ohmega addresses weight differences between the climber and the belayer like the Ohm and makes it more comfortable for the belayer when the climber is projecting by reducing the load put on the belayer. The Ohmega can be configured to 10kg (22 lbs), 20kg (44.1 lbs) or 30kg (66.1 lbs) so it can be customized to the weight difference between belayer and climber.
This device can also be used when there is no weight difference between climber and belayer as the pulley reduces friction, making clipping smooth and easy, but when projecting, reduces the force on the belayer.
View All Edelrid Belay Devices
II. Core Protect Rope by Mammut
The new “Core Protect” technology maintains the same dynamic properties of lead climbing ropes but greatly increases the cut resistance. The outer sheath is still made with Polyamide6 as it has excellent dynamic capabilities, but now between the sheath and core is a new layer of Aramid, which has greater cut resistance. You have to get through two layers to damage the core.
The downside of Aramid is its static properties, which increase forces when absorbing a fall and degrades in UV light. Mammut has solved this conundrum by braiding it with extra length, i.e., it's not pulled tight, like a regular sheath is. Once the Aramid comes under tension, it expands/unfolds to its full length while protecting the core but keeping forces low, while also being hidden under the UV-protective sheath until.
The Core Protect technology ropes offer significant protection over sharp edges while still maintaining the handling of a regular dry rope. Please note the tests show increased protection, but all ropes will cut under exceptional circumstances. Core Protect is availiable in both an 8.0mm half/twin rope and a 9.5mm single rope.
III. Alpha SL Alpine Pack by Arc'teryx (ETA May 2025)
Weighing in at a mere 296g, this pack is constructed with 200D ALUULA Graflyte fabric, offering exceptional durability and waterproofness for technical alpine climbs. Aluula is made from UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), a thermoplastic resin characterized by extremely long carbon chains and a high strength-to-weight ratio. It boasts a low coefficient of friction and is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and moisture — commonly recognized under the brand name Dyneema.
200D ALUULA Graflyte fabric & Alpha SL
The innovative “Graflyte” fabric is laminated, eliminating failure-prone seams and adhesives, which significantly extends the product's lifespan.
The Alpha SL is the next generation of the FL, which has a devoted following. At less than half the weight, it maintains a low profile for climbing while introducing a new pull-draw cord system for easy access. Despite the weight savings, it still provides comfortable carry performance.
IV. 8.9mm Swift 48 Eco Dry Rope by Edelrid
The new 8.9mm Swift 48 Rope delivers exceptional suppleness, reducing drag through gear and across rugged rock surfaces. The "48" refers to the number of carriers used to braid and twist the rope during production—a meticulous process that enhances performance and durability. While EDELRID is renowned for crafting outstanding ropes, their innovation extends far beyond product quality. They are redefining industry standards through a steadfast commitment to sustainability, taking full ownership of their supply chain and production waste.
Although fossil fuel-based materials remain common in the industry—including in EDELRID products—they are leading the charge toward a more sustainable future. By prioritizing the development and integration of renewable, bio-based raw materials, EDELRID is setting a new benchmark for "Responsible Manufacturing." This initiative isn't just a marketing message—it's a genuine effort to push the boundaries of what's possible in rope production while championing environmental responsibility.
New Ropes for 2025 from Edelrid
- 9.8mm Birdlime - The first rope made with renewable bio-based raw materials derived from plant-based castor oil and composed of 40% bio-based and 60% fossil-based materials.
- 9.6mm Neo 100 3R - Now crafted with 100% recycled yarns sourced directly from EDELRID's own production line. Featuring a smaller diameter, this thinner rope made entirely from recycled materials is a game-changer!
- 8.6mm Siskin Eco Dry - The lightest triple-rated rope on the market at just 48 g/m! While thinner ropes exist, they can't match its specs or real-world handling properties. This breakthrough was made possible by innovative construction techniques and the discovery of a revolutionary new yarn.
- 9.6mm Boa Eco - Now in a thinner diameter! The same great rope you love, made with upcycled materials from EDELRID's own production line to reduce waste.
V. Alpinist2, Alpinist3, and Alpinist2 ULTRA - New Tents by Samaya (ETA April 2025)
This new 2-person tent weighs a minuscule 793g while offering a floor waterproof rating of 20,000mm and a wall waterproof rating of 15,000mm. The ultra-minimalist design, where every detail matters, is focused on vertical ascents. Colin Haley, a member of their athlete team, was involved in the development of this tent. This high-altitude performance tent excels thanks to its lightweight, single-wall Dyneema structure and carbon internal poles. The footprint of the Alpinist2 Ultra measures 120cm wide by 210cm long. Its small surface area and steep side walls allow it to be pitched on compact snow or rock stances during multi-day ascents on larger alpine routes.
The Samaya ALPINIST2 & 3 are a streamlined assault tent designed to facilitate vertical ascents. Weighing in at 1,299 grams & 1,475 grams, they offer a lightweight and compact solution inspired by the use of our athletes. The Samaya ALPINIST2 & 3 stands out for its comfort and functionality, thanks to its Nanovent® membrane, internal poles, mosquito net, and cross-ventilations.
View All Samaya Tents and Shelter
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