#9 on this list
Speed Step Pro
Black Diamond
The Black Diamond Speed Step Pro is a minimalist, streamlined foot loop tailored specifically for jugging fixed lines and ascending ropes quickly. Unlike full-length multi-step etriers or ladders that feature four to six steps for positioning gear placements, the Speed Step Pro is focused on one task: giving the climber a single, efficient foot stirrup to connect to a handled ascender for upward progress. Its construction focuses on speed and simplicity. The single-loop system eliminates the dangling bulk of unused lower rungs, preventing the foot loop from tangling around gear, ropes, or rock horns during continuous ascending. The foot loop features an integrated elastic keeper or cinch mechanism that secures the stirrup snugly around the boot, preventing your heel from slipping out mid-stride on overhanging rock. The trade-off is strictly limited versatility. The Speed Step Pro cannot be used effectively as a leading aider on technical aid pitches, because it lacks the multiple rungs necessary to climb high above gear placements. It is strictly a jugging stirrup. For climbers cleaning pitches behind a leader, big wall seconders, or route photographers who only need to climb fixed ropes, it offers a clutter-free, highly affordable solution. **Highlights** - Streamlined single-loop design prevents tangling during rope jugging - Highly affordable price compared to full-featured aiders - Integrated boot cinch keeps the stirrup securely locked on footwear - Lightweight and packs down cleanly on the harness - Ideal dedicated tool for seconding aid pitches and cleaning gear **Watch-outs** - Lacks multiple steps, making it unusable for leading technical aid pitches - Webbing provides no padding or structural rigidity
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#10 on this list
Technology Quick Roll
Climbing
The Climbing Technology Quick Roll is an innovative handled ascender that integrates a low-friction pulley directly into the base of the frame. Developed with input from arborists, route photographers, and rope-access workers, this design allows climbers to redirect a rope through the bottom of the ascender without clipping an extra pulley into the carabiner hole. This enables smoother, more efficient twin-line or redirected ascending setups. The integrated pulley reduces system clutter and friction when climbing fixed ropes using the rope-walking technique or when hauling secondary gear bags while ascending. The ascender body features an ergonomic, rubberized handle that provides comfortable purchase during long days on rope, while the toothed cam reliably grips wet, worn, and dirty ropes. A patented cam release system allows smooth disengagement with minimal effort. The added complexity and metal in the lower frame make the Quick Roll slightly heavier and bulkier than standard handled ascenders. It is also tailored to a specific set of ascending techniques; climbers who use standard Texas or frog ascending systems may not fully utilize the built-in pulley. For vertical photographers and rigging technicians who can leverage the integrated wheel, it saves significant time and hardware clutter. **Highlights** - Integrated base pulley reduces friction and eliminates extra hardware - Ergonomic rubberized grip provides secure, comfortable handling - Cam release mechanism enables smooth one-handed disengagement - Aggressive toothed cam bites securely on worn or dirty ropes - Highly efficient for specialized rope-walking and photography rigging **Watch-outs** - Bulkier and heavier than conventional handled ascenders - Pulley functionality is unnecessary for standard two-ascender jugging setups
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Speed Step Pro | Technology Quick Roll |
|---|---|---|
| Stirrup Type | Single-loop jugging aider | — |
| Primary Material | High-tensile nylon webbing | — |
| Foot Retention | Integrated cinch keeper mechanism | — |
| MSRP | Approximately $40 | — |
| Best Paired With | Handled rope ascenders | — |
| Weight | — | 255 g (9.0 oz) |
| Rope Diameters | — | 8 mm to 13 mm single ropes |
| Frame Material | — | Hot-forged aluminum alloy |
| Cam Material | — | Toothed steel with mud slots |
| Base Feature | — | Integrated redirection pulley |
| Certifications | — | EN 567:2013, EN 12841:2006-B |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Speed Step Pro
- Streamlined single-loop design prevents snagging on rock horns and gear
- Integrated heel cinch keeps the foot loop locked onto boots securely
- Packs down small with minimal harness bulk compared to full etriers
- Accessible price point for a specialized, durable cleaning stirrup
- Unusable for leading aid pitches due to the absence of upper steps
- Lacks instant length adjustability compared to buckle-based foot loops
- No footbed stiffener or padding for prolonged vertical hanging
Technology Quick Roll
- Integrated pulley removes the need for separate redirection hardware
- Ergonomic overmolded grip accommodates bulky gloves comfortably
- Steel cam with drainage slots bites securely on dirty or wet ropes
- Patented thumb lever allows smooth one-handed cam release
- Heavier and longer than traditional handled climbing ascenders
- Integrated pulley provides minimal benefit for standard big-wall jugging
- Exposed pulley requires cleaning in muddy or gritty environments
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