Affinity Initiative Aotearoa PGM Workshops | How to break your belay devices (and not your friends)
Description
Your belay device is the single most important piece of gear between your climbing partner and the ground.
Do you actually know how it works — and more importantly, how it fails? 🪢
This hands-on workshop breaks down the assisted braking devices on the market today — how they’re designed, where their limitations lie, and what happens when they’re used incorrectly. We’re not here to scare you. We’re here to make sure you know your gear so well that nothing surprises you on the wall.
This is also your chance to get your hands on devices you’ve been curious about before committing to a purchase. Try before you buy, in a supported environment with experienced instructors walking you through each one.
Because the best belay device is the one you fully understand.
What we’ll cover:
🪢 How assisted braking devices work and the mechanics behind them
⚠️ The limitations and failure modes of popular devices on the market
🔍 Hands-on testing and comparison of multiple devices
💡 Best practices for different climbing scenarios — sport, trad, multipitch
🛒 Guidance on choosing the right device for your climbing style and goals
Devices covered may include:
Grigri, Pinch, Mammut Smart 2.0, Edelrid Mega Jul, and others — final list confirmed closer to the date.
Who is this for?
This workshop is open to lead verified Afinity members only.
A solid foundation in belaying is required to get the most out of this session and to participate safely.
If you’re not yet lead verified, keep an eye out for our upcoming lead courses.
How much is it?:
✅ $70 for the evening session.
✅ Includes climbing gym entry.
✅ And use of equipment for the learning to take place.
Fees to be bank transferred or cash to reduce transaction fees. To be paid after confirmation of spot.
What’s included:
✅ Guided workshop with experienced instructors
✅ Hands-on time with multiple assisted braking devices
✅ Safety briefing and real-world scenario discussions
✅ The knowledge to make an informed gear decision
What to bring:
Your current belay device and harness
Climbing shoes
A notebook if you like to take notes
Your questions — there are no stupid ones here
This event is open to lead verified Affinity members only. Membership is free — sign up via the link in our Instagram bio.
Tiakina ō hoa — look after your people. 🤍
FAQs
- Do I need to be lead verified to attend?
Yes. This is a requirement, not a suggestion.
The workshop assumes a working knowledge of lead belaying and rope systems.
If you are not yet lead verified, look out for Affinity's upcoming lead courses and indoor lead course offerings.
- Why Lead Verfied Specifically?
The content of this workshop goes beyond basic top-rope belaying.
Understanding assisted braking device limitations requires a solid foundation in lead belaying mechanics, fall dynamics, and rope management.
Attending without this foundation would limit what you get out of the session and could create safety concerns during hands-on components.
- Will the devices be provided?
Yes. A range of assisted braking devices will be available on the day for participants to handle and compare.
You do not need to own any specific device to attend.
- Should I bring my own belay devices?
Yes, if you have one.
Bringing your current device gives instructors the opportunity to give you specific feedback on your setup and technique.
- Is there a certificate after the session?
No. This is an educational workshop, not a certification programme.
You will not leave with a formal qualification, but you will leave with a significantly better understanding of your gear and how to use it safely.
- What ABDs will be covered?
The final list will be confirmed closer to the date.
We aim to cover the most widely used devices on the market including the Grigri, Pinch, and tube-style assisted braking options.
- I’m lead verified but haven’t belayed in a while — is this still suitable?
Yes, as long as you hold a current lead verification. If you have any concerns, get in touch beforehand and we can advise. - What happens if the session is full?
Spaces are limited to maintain a quality instructor-to-participant ratio.If the session fills up, register your interest and we will look at running a second session based on demand.
- Is this only for AIA members?
Yes. This event is open to lead verified AIA members only.Membership is free — sign up via the link in our Instagram bio before registering.
- Can I bring a friend?
Your friend is welcome as long as they are a registered Affinity member and lead verified.Have them sign up via the link in bio before registering for the event.
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