For Spring ’17, Black Diamond heads back to their roots with a full suite of new climbing gear. “Climbing is what we’re about and this spring’s collection is no exception,” said Eric Wynn, Black Diamond’s Director of Marketing. “Whether it’s new harnesses, helmets, cords, belay devices, packs, gym bags, climbing lifestyle or technical apparel, Black Diamond’s spring 2017 collection encompasses everything climbing and represents our continuing legacy of making premium equipment for all facets of the sport.”
Some highlights include a new sport climbing belay device–the ATC-Pilot (pictured top). The device looks a bit like a fully enclosed ATC-Sport, and features enhanced braking performance for an added level of security while belaying and allows for smooth rope pay out and gradual, controlled lowering.
The Zone, with a version for both men and women, is Black Diamond’s lightest sport harness to date. It features the brand’s classic Fusion Comfort Construction and a contoured fit for superior comfort during long days at the crag.
And the women get their own Half Dome helmet next season, with a pony tail friendly design at the back.
But probably the biggest news, is Black Diamond’s return to climbing ropes. The collection includes four dynamic ropes with diameters 7.8, 9.2, 9.6, and a beefy 9.9 for everyday cragging. The climbing ropes will be available with FullDry treatment for mountain travel and come in several lengths including 35m ideal for gym climbing, and up to 80m for long sport routes.
Black Diamond will also have a new line of alpine climbing packs which I am excited to see in person in Friedrichshafen next week. Inspired by Black Diamond’s ski packs, the new Blitz 28/20 climbing packs are the ultimate on-route packs for fast and light alpine assaults, with all the necessary features for technical objectives, including ultralight Dyneema construction and a strippable design.
Stay tuned for more details.