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Straight Gates
A classic all-round option, commonly used for the protection end of quickdraws. Many now feature a keylock nose to prevent snagging.
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Understanding carabiners
Carabiners might look simple, but they’re the backbone of your climbing safety system. From clipping into protection to building anchors or belaying your partner, choosing the right carabiner is about far more than convenience – it’s about reliability when it matters most.
In this guide, we’ll answer the key questions to help you understand what to look for when buying carabiners.
Whether you’re new to climbing or fine-tuning your rack, this guide will help you pick the right kit with confidence.
What carabiner shape should I choose?
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What are the different gate types?
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Quickdraws
What are quickdraws, and how do they work?
A quickdraw is made of two carabiners connected by a strong nylon or Dyneema sling. One carabiner clips into the protection (bolt or gear), while the other is for the rope. The rope-end carabiner is usually fixed in place with a rubber retainer, so it stays aligned for faster clipping. The sling extends the rope away from the gear to reduce rope drag and prevent gear from shifting.
"If you can, having a separate sport and trad quickdraw set makes a big difference. You get chunky draws that are easy to grab and won't wear out for bolt clipping and light, flexible draws that allow the ropes to run freely and keep gear seated for trad climbing." - Oscar, Product Copywriter
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How are carabiners made?
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Strength ratings
How strong are carabiners?
Every certified carabiner is marked with three strength ratings, measured in kiloNewtons (kN):
Major Axis: The maximum strength along the spine with the gate closed (often around 20–25 kN).
Minor Axis: Strength across the gate (usually 6–8 kN).
Gate Open: Strength along the spine with the gate open (often 7–10 kN).
So, 25 kN is equivalent to holding a static load of about 2.5 metric tons.
What else should I consider when choosing a carabiner?
Check rope and gear compatibility: Larger radiuses reduce wear on ropes and slings.
Keep them clean: Grit and corrosion reduce performance.
Know when to retire gear: Deep grooves, sharp edges, or gate failures mean it’s time to replace the carabiner.
Carabiner picks
Final thoughts
Choosing the right carabiner depends on how and where you climb, but starting with a mix of HMS, offset D, and wire-gate designs will cover most needs.
Still unsure? Visit your nearest store, where our staff can show you the differences and help you build the perfect rack.
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