Petzl Spirit: the best quickdraws for sport climbing?

Petzl launches a new edition of its successful Spirit carabiners and probably the best and most famous quickdraws. What's new?

In 1993, Petzl launched the first version of the Spirit carabiner. Pioneering and innovative in many ways, this carabiner has become a Petzl classic over the course of those three decades. In particular, the quickdraws with the gray and orange carabiner have become indispensable in sport climbing areas around the world.

The best get even better

If a product lasts three decades and is still considered a reference, it is undoubtedly a good invention and the developer has understood how to further develop it according to the needs of the users. So what is it that makes the Spirit carabiners and Exen so unique?

Petzl-Spirit-Express_Karabiner_Exen_Expressschlingen_Bild-Marc-Daviet
For three decades, the Spirit Express carabiners have been the reference in the sport climbing areas of the world. (Image © 2022 PETZL DISTRIBUTION - Marc Daviet)

«What makes the Spirit carabiners and exen so unique? Very much!"

First of all, there is the ergonomic design for optimal handling. In addition, the lower carabiner of the Exen has a curved gate, which makes it easier to attach and detach the rope. Neither the lower nor the upper carabiner has a nose and can therefore be easily detached from the bolt or rope, even on steep terrain.

The wide sling of the Exe is particularly useful when planning routes at your own limit, because it is comfortable to hold.

Tech Tip: Various clipping techniques

Robust and reliable

The Spirit-Exen are not only pleasant to handle, but also extremely reliable and robust and have an optimal ratio between weight and efficiency. What more could you ask for? Some would say: «nothing». But the Petzl engineers had a different answer. They set themselves the goal of further improving this proven product. The result is small but fine improvements to the Spirit carabiners.

Petzl Spirit Express_expressschlingen_exen_2023
Probably the best exes for sport climbing.

What's new about the Spirit carabiners and quickdraws?

The new Spirit carabiners and exes offer even more performance and even more comfortable handling. Three cut-outs on the carabiner reduce their weight, give them a uniquely innovative design and act as eye-catchers. The shape of the nose has been rounded off even more, making it even easier to unhook the carabiner.

The Petzl Spirit carabiners are now available in six colors. (Image Lafouche)
The Petzl Spirit carabiners are now available in six colors. (Image Lafouche)

The flat area on the gate has also been perfected to make clipping even more ergonomic. And last but not least, there is the version with a curved catch in grey, violet, green, red, yellow or blue.

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Credits: Cover Photo © 2022 Petzl Distribution

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