The Best Aiders / Etriers
Do you want to tie in and top-step but aren't sure which aider is best? We've tested 30 of the best aiders over more than a decade of testing and dozens of big wall ascents. For our current review, we tested 16 of the top ladders, etriers, speed steps, and pocket aiders available today. We compared them side-by-side on big walls in Yosemite and Zion and even as far as Baffin Island. We used them on aid-intensive walls, on light and fast alpine missions, and in support of big wall free climbing ascents. Our team of climbers helps break down nuanced differences between options, examining key considerations like climbing comfort, ladder stability, ease of top-stepping, and durability. Whether you're a hardened wall rat or new to the big wall game, our in-depth review offers expert recommendations to help you find the best aider for your next adventure.
Editor's Note: We recently overhauled this review: we updated our test plan, re-purchased and retested previous award winners, and added new aiders from Skots Wall Gear, Runout Customs, CAMP, Black Diamond, Metolius, and Petzl. We updated this review on May 20, 2024, with a new award-winning lineup.